Veterinary Assistant -Shift Lead, Daytime, ER

Posted 2 days ago

animal emergency of south orange countyMission Viejo (CA)

Veterinary Technologists and Technicians Veterinary Services

SENIORITY

Mid

SALARY

$30–$45/hour

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About the role

Description: Shift Lead (Veterinary ER) Animal Emergency of South Orange County (Previously Animal Urgent Care of South Orange County) Animal Emergency of South Orange County is a fully equipped 24/7 emergency and urgent care hospital, open nights, weekends, and holidays to provide critical care when it's needed most. We treat dogs, cats, and provide supportive care to exotics, and we're proud to partner with local Animal Services to assist in the care of local wildlife in need of medical attention. We are offering up to a $2,500 Sign-On Bonus for qualified RVT candidates — apply today! Shifts needed*: Shifts: 3x13 (2x30 min lunches) Thursday & Friday 7a - 8pSaturday 9a to 10pJob Description: Va/RVT Shift Lead (Veterinary ER) Animal Emergency of South Orange County (Previously Animal Urgent Care of South Orange County)

Who We Are: As part of the Thrive Pet Healthcare network, we're backed by a national community that values continuous learning, medical excellence, and career growth. At Thrive Pet Healthcare, we celebrate and embrace the uniqueness and diversity of all team members, pet parents, and pets. We strive to create a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture where all team members belong and feel empowered. Va/RVT Shift Lead (Veterinary ER) 3x13-hour shifts (3x12 with 2 30 min lunches)

Position Summary: We are seeking an experienced Veterinary assistant or RVT (Veterinary ER) Shift Lead to join our 24/7 emergency team. This role combines advanced ER technical skills with frontline shift leadership responsibilities. The Shift Lead serves as the primary key holder and support leader for the shift, helping guide hospital flow, support team communication, and maintain high standards of patient care during emergency operations. This role is ideal for an experienced Va or RVT who thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates strong leadership qualities, and is passionate about mentoring others and improving hospital operations. Leadership Responsibilities

Serve as the primary shift lead and key holder during assigned shifts
Help navigate hospital and treatment floor flow during high-volume and critical cases
Support team coordination, communication, and task delegation throughout the shift
Assist with real-time prioritization of incoming emergencies and hospitalized patients
Provide mentorship, guidance, and support to technicians and assistants on shift
Escalate operational concerns appropriately and communicate updates to leadership
Promote a positive, accountable, and team-focused culture overnight
Attend monthly Shift Lead meetings focused on hospital improvement, workflow development, communication initiatives, and team growth
Support implementation of hospital protocols, training initiatives, and workflow improvements Technical Responsibilities
Support triage, patient flow, and treatment prioritization
Assist veterinarians in emergency procedures, diagnostics, surgery, and stabilization
Manage hospitalized patient care including IV fluids, medication administration, CRI setup, and monitoring
Recognize abnormal patient trends and escalate appropriately
Assist and monitor during procedures, surgery, and endoscopy
Perform IV catheter placement, blood draws, diagnostic sampling, and in-house lab testing
Obtain and monitor vitals including blood pressure and anesthesia monitoring
Maintain accurate treatment sheets and medical records
Maintain clean, organized treatment and hospital areas
Maintain professionalism and composure during high-volume emergency situations Required Skills & Qualifications
Active California RVT license a plus
Minimum 2+ years veterinary experience (ER/Urgent Care strongly preferred)
Prior leadership, mentorship, or charge/lead experience preferred
Must function at a Dark Blue Badge to Maroon Badge competency level (Testing provided), including: Strong triage awareness and emergency workflow understanding Advanced IV catheter placement and fluid therapy management Accurate medical math and drug calculations Monitoring critical patients and identifying subtle changes Running in-house diagnostics and supporting radiographs Advanced restraint and strong technical confidence RECOVER CPR knowledge preferred (certification a plus) Strong communication skills, professionalism, leadership presence, and team-first mindset Candidates passionate about mentorship, hospital growth, and leadership development are strongly encouraged to apply Compensation & Differentials Pay is based on experience and competency level: $30–$45/hour Compensation is determined by badge placement testing, completed on-site during the second interview. Differentials While on Shift
Overnight Differential: +$2/hr (10pm–8am)
Weekend Differential: +$3/hr (Fri 6pm–Mon 8am)
Differentials stack Sign-On Bonus Up to $2,500 for qualified candidates.

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