Veterinary Receptionist

About the Role

Catley Cross Veterinary Clinic is seeking an enthusiastic Veterinary Receptionist to join their small animal practice in Halstead, Essex. This is a part-time, fixed-term contract lasting approximately 7 months, working 26 hours per week. You’ll be the first point of contact for clients, managing appointments, payments, and enquiries with professionalism and warmth whilst supporting a 4-vet team and 6 nursing staff.

The practice has a genuine family atmosphere—this isn’t a high-pressure environment. You’ll receive full training and support from a dedicated, experienced team who genuinely care about their working environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Greet clients warmly and professionally in reception
• Answer telephone calls, take messages accurately, and handle client enquiries promptly
• Book and manage appointments, making alterations as needed
• Process client payments securely
• Handle incoming and outgoing mail, including sorting and distribution
• Monitor and respond to incoming emails appropriately
• Manage practice diary and scheduling
• Monitor office supplies and flag when restocking is needed
• Maintain office filing systems
• Support the administration team with ad-hoc tasks as required

Requirements

• Enthusiastic with a positive, willing attitude
• Reliable and flexible in your approach
• Strong attention to detail
• Able to work effectively both as part of a team and independently
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Competent IT skills
• Friendly and caring demeanour
• Strong work ethic and professional conduct

Benefits

• Competitive salary up to £17,576 depending on experience
• 6.6 weeks annual leave (FTE basis)
• Additional paid leave on your birthday
• Enhanced family-friendly policies including maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental and surrogacy pay
• Cycle to work scheme
• Well-being initiatives and support
• Non-accidental injury support
• Learning and development via the IVC Evidensia Academy
• Pawsome Benefits—reward gateway with discounts and cashback at 100+ retailers
• Pension scheme
• Discounted staff pet care

Working Pattern

26 hours per week: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 1 pm–7 pm, plus 1 in 4 Saturday mornings 8 am–2 pm.

About the Practice

Catley Cross Veterinary Clinic is an established small animal practice serving Halstead and the surrounding area, treating dogs, cats and small pets. The team comprises 4 veterinary surgeons, 6 experienced nurses, dedicated receptionists and animal care assistants. The practice is part of IVC Evidensia, a leading veterinary group across the UK and Europe.