Veterinary Receptionist

About the Role

This is a 6-month fixed-term contract offering 30 hours per week across a Monday–Friday daytime shift (08:00–20:00) plus weekend rota cover on Saturdays and Sundays (09:00–17:00). You’ll be based at Albavet Veterinary Surgeons’ Kirkcaldy site on Nicol Street, though you may be asked to cover the practice’s other Fife locations when needed.

As the face of a busy first-opinion practice, you’ll manage the reception desk with warmth and professionalism, juggling appointment scheduling, client queries, financial transactions, and the emotional moments that come with veterinary care. The practice values genuine empathy alongside efficiency—you’ll be supporting anxious pet owners and helping animals get the care they need.

Key Responsibilities

• Answer incoming calls and book appointments efficiently using the practice’s in-house system
• Greet and register new clients, creating a welcoming first impression
• Respond to client inquiries via phone, email, and in-person with professionalism
• Process insurance forms and manage insurance-related queries
• Dispense medications as required and manage stock processes
• Process payments and handle refunds and debt management with tact
• Provide empathetic support to clients during stressful situations whilst maintaining professional boundaries
• Liaise with other CVS practices to coordinate patient care and resolve queries
• Maintain accurate client and patient records in the practice system

Requirements

• Previous reception experience (essential); veterinary reception background is highly valued
• Strong communication skills and genuine empathy with clients
• Proven customer service experience working with the public
• Resilience and emotional intelligence to handle distressing situations with grace
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database systems
• Positive attitude and strong teamwork abilities
• Right to Work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available for this clinical support role)

Benefits

• Competitive salary aligned with the National Minimum Wage (effective 1 April 2025)
• 5 weeks’ annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata)
• Staff discounts on veterinary services and products
• Access to the Employee Assistance Programme and over 400 Mental Health First-Aiders across CVS
• Structured Receptionist Careers Pathway with access to training and development courses
• Collaborative and supportive team environment

About the Practice

Albavet Veterinary Surgeons is part of CVS Group, one of the UK’s leading veterinary networks with over 500 practices and 8,000+ staff. The practice operates as a first-opinion clinic serving the local Fife community, providing accessible care for small animals and their owners.

As a CVS-owned practice, Albavet offers team members access to broader resources, mentorship, and career development opportunities within a large supportive community—all while maintaining a focus on local, compassionate animal care. The organisation is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is celebrated and every team member can perform at their best.