Receptionist, Retail

Client Relations Assistant

Full Time – Clerical – Des Moines, IA, US

To advance the mission and programs of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) and the ARL Afford-a-Care Pet Clinics by providing exceptional front‑desk service, ensuring an efficient and welcoming client experience, and supporting the daily operations of the clinic through high‑quality administrative and clerical work. In this role, you help clients access the care their pets need while promoting the ARL’s trusted community resources.

• Prepare patient forms and files in advance of appointments and warmly greet clients and their pets to create a positive first impression.

• Process payments for veterinary services, balance daily transactions, and issue receipts with accuracy and professionalism.

• Answer incoming phone calls, respond to inquiries or direct calls appropriately, and provide information to pet owners about clinic services, scheduling procedures, and ARL resources.

• Ensure all necessary paperwork is completed before appointments and coordinate scheduling for patient visits, follow‑ups, and surgical procedures while maintaining an organized and efficient clinic calendar.

• Manage essential clerical duties such as filing, photocopying, faxing, transcribing, and sorting mail, and work collaboratively with clinic staff to maintain smooth operations.

• Support clients during emotional or stressful situations by providing compassionate communication and steady guidance.

• Contribute to stress and disease reduction efforts through intentional and humane handling of animals when needed, maintain clean and orderly lobby and work areas, and uphold a safe working environment by following established safety guidelines.

• Actively promote the ARL’s mission, services, programs, and events while demonstrating knowledge of and adherence to ARL policies and procedures.

• Additional responsibilities may be assigned.

• High‑school diploma or GED and ideally previous experience in a reception or client‑service role.

• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced and sometimes emotionally challenging environment with strong customer service, problem‑solving, and conflict‑resolution skills.

• Organizational skills and attention to detail to support accurate scheduling and record‑keeping.

• Comfort with basic mathematical tasks and effective use of Microsoft Office Suite.

• Empathy, professionalism, and a commitment to supporting clients and their pets.

This position may require lifting up to 50 pounds on occasion and involves regular exposure to odors, animal‑related illnesses, bites, scratches, and waste, as well as moderate noise levels. You must be able to sit or stand for extended periods and be comfortable working in an environment where both people and animals are frequently in need of support.

As a Receptionist at the ARL’s clinics, you are often the first point of contact for pet owners seeking help, guidance, and care. Your work ensures that pets receive timely medical services and that clients feel supported and valued. You join a mission‑driven team dedicated to compassion, community impact, and making life better for animals and the people who love them.

• 40 Hours – Full‑time
• Availability:
  Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Rotating Half‑Day Saturdays, 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Employment in this position is at‑will, meaning that either the employee or the ARL may terminate the employment relationship at any time.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and/or applicable state regulations, the Animal Rescue League will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations.