Lead Registered Veterinary Technician

Companion Pet; Palo Alto, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 73,000 - 83,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Benefits package

Career growth

Work-life balance

Employee discounts

Scrub allowance

Referral program

Job summary

Midtown Veterinary Hospital in Palo Alto, CA is seeking a Lead Registered Veterinary Technician to join our collaborative team. You will work alongside experienced DVMs to deliver exceptional patient care and help the hospital run smoothly.

The ideal candidate is a licensed RVT with 5+ years in a small-animal setting, strong leadership, anesthesia, radiography, and client communication skills. We offer competitive pay and comprehensive benefits in a community-focused practice.

Qualifications

• RVT, LVT, or CVT certification (or equivalent) required.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 5+ years of experience working in a small animal setting required.
• Supervisory experience a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform clinical tasks including exams, treatments, in-house lab tests, and assist surgeries.
• Lead and manage technicians; schedule staff and monitor performance.
• Triaging patients, safe handling, and reducing stress for animals.
• Communicate with clients about status and treatment plans.
• Maintain medical records, medication logs, and shift handoffs.
• Collaborate with hospital manager and participate in staff meetings.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Animal handling

Medical records

Multi-tasking

Detail-oriented

Team collaboration

Education

RVT/LVT/CVT certification

High school diploma

5+ years small animal experience

Supervisory experience

Tools

Anesthesia monitoring

Dental Cleaning

Radiography

Job description

Why Join Our Team

Midtown Veterinary Hospital is a boutique general practice nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley in Palo Alto, California. Our modern, spacious facility is designed with both efficiency and comfort in mind, enabling us to deliver outstanding wellness, preventative, and urgent care services in a location that offers the perfect blend of community feel and city convenience.

Our tight-knit team thrives on exceptional collaboration and a deep commitment to both patient care and workplace positivity. We've purposefully built dedicated wellness spaces into our practice—including a fully stocked snack room and a tranquil outdoor break area—creating an environment where great care starts with well-cared-for people.

What Sets Us Apart

• Wellness Focus: Dedicated spaces for team members including stocked snack room and outdoor break area
• Personalized Environment: Smaller practice where your ideas are heard and contributions matter
• Prime Location: Steps away from Palo Alto's best cafés and eateries in a vibrant neighborhood
• Collaborative Culture: True teamwork in a cohesive environment that values connection
• City-Neighborhood Balance: Perfect blend of urban energy and community charm

Located in the heart of Palo Alto, join a team that values connection, care, and community. Experience a veterinary career where efficiency meets empathy in one of Silicon Valley's most desirable locations.

About This Role

Join our veterinary team as a full-time Lead Registered Veterinary Technician and make a real difference in animal care every day. You'll work alongside our experienced DVMs to provide exceptional patient care while helping our hospital run smoothly and efficiently.

This position requires an active state credential: Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT).

What Success Looks Like

• Clinical Task Performance: Conducts physical exams, administer treatments, and performs diagnostic procedures, including collecting samples and running in-house lab tests. Assists veterinarians with surgeries, monitors anesthesia, and ensures proper patient recovery under supervision.
• Leadership & Team Management: Manages technicians and other medical personnel in assigned departments, evaluating performance and conducting timely reviews. Schedules staff according to departmental needs, monitor work efficiency and minimize overtime. Exhibits confidentiality and professionalism in all regards for employee issues. Contributes to an overall positive team culture and work environment.
• Patient Care and Handling: Triages patients by gathering medical histories and assessing immediate needs. Handle and restrain animals safely, focusing on minimizing stress and maintaining the well-being of both patients and staff.
• Communication and Client Interaction: Effectively updates clients on patient status and explains treatment plans under veterinarian direction. Collaborates with the hospital team and fosters a positive, team-oriented environment.
• Medications and Medical Records Management: Accurately fills prescriptions, administers medications, and documents all treatments, including controlled drug logs, to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Maintains precise and up-to-date patient records, including treatment notes and shift handoff updates.
• Team Coordination: Collaborates with the hospital manager by assisting in training new employees, floating between departments, and contributing to a cohesive work environment. Participate in staff meetings, reviews, and on-call schedules to ensure the smooth operation of the hospital.

What Makes You a Great Fit

• Licensed Veterinary Technician with current state certification (RVT)
• Proficient with anesthesia monitoring, dental cleanings, and radiography
• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Exceptional animal handling skills with the ability to work safely with pets of all temperaments
• Strong knowledge of veterinary medical procedures, laboratory techniques, and pharmaceutical calculations
• Excellent communication skills with both team members and clients
• Detail-oriented approach to patient care and medical record-keeping
• Ability to multi-task effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and assist with lifting patients
• Genuine compassion for animals and commitment to quality care
• Adaptability and willingness to assist in various hospital areas as needed

Education & Experience

• RVT, LVT, or CVT certification (or equivalent) required
• High school diploma or equivalent
• 5+ years of experience working in a small animal setting required
• Supervisory experience a plus

How We’ll Support You

• Competitive Pay: $35.00 - $40.00 per hour, commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance, plus 401k with company match
• Growth Opportunities: Continuing education and professional development support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO and mental health assistance
• Perks: Employee discounts on services, a scrub allowance, and a referral program
• A Welcoming Team: We’re a hard-working and collaborative team where your voice matters!

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.