"Veterinary Wards Nursing Supervisor"

Veterinary Wards Nursing Supervisor

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Large Employers in 2023.

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The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Posted Job Title
Veterinary Wards Nursing Supervisor

Job Profile Title
Veterinary Head Nurse

Job Description Summary

The University of Pennsylvania Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Hospital is seeking a highly skilled and compassionate Wards Nursing Supervisor to lead the nursing team in one of our busiest inpatient areas. The Wards department provides 24/7 care to a diverse and dynamic patient population, requiring a strong leader who excels in communication, organization, and clinical expertise. This role combines active, on-the-floor supervision with administrative responsibilities to ensure exceptional patient care, staff development, and efficient hospital operations in an academic veterinary setting.

Job Description

The Wards Nursing Supervisor will manage a growing team of Credentialed Veterinary Technicians (CVTs) and Veterinary Assistants responsible for delivering high-quality care to hospitalized patients. We are seeking a self-motivated CVT with demonstrated leadership experience and a passion for mentorship, patient care, and team collaboration. The Wards Supervisor plays a vital role in fostering a positive, supportive work environment while maintaining high standards of care and operational excellence. This position is an active, on the floor supervisor role, with some time off the floor for administrative responsibilities.

Job responsibilities

Floor Responsibilities:

• Work alongside nursing staff to provide direct patient care, demonstrate clinical judgment, and promote real-time mentorship and skill development.
• Communicate effectively with the nursing team to prioritize and organize treatments, ensuring an efficient and coordinated workflow.
• Collaborate closely with students, nurses, clinicians, and the Wards Clinical Advisor to meet patient needs and maintain continuity of care.
• Provide instruction and supervision to veterinary and Harcum College nursing students assigned to the Wards service.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership, guidance, and vision for the Wards nursing team.
• Develop and manage 24/7 nursing schedules, including holiday coverage, while addressing schedule gaps and call-outs in a timely manner.
• Partner with the Talent Acquisition Specialist to recruit and retain skilled staff that meet the operational needs of the service.
• Collaborate with the Wards Clinical Nurse Educator and Wards Operations Manager to ensure effective onboarding, training, and adherence to policies and workflows.
• Clearly define staff expectations, responsibilities, and performance metrics.
• Foster professional development, career growth, and positive employee relations.
• Address performance issues promptly and conduct annual and mid-year performance appraisals in Workday.
• Work collaboratively with other supervisors, clinicians, and hospital administration to enhance patient care, communication, and client service.
• Partner with the Wards Clinical Advisor, Operations Manager, and Infection Prevention Team to develop, implement, and maintain Wards policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with the Operations Manager to monitor and maintain Wards equipment, coordinate repairs, and manage supply needs.
• Submit and verify weekly payroll for Wards nursing staff.

Schedule:

• Full time, 40 hours/week, salaried
• 4- or 5-day work week
• Schedule may be varied, depending on the needs of the Wards
• The Wards Nursing Supervisor is considered Essential Personnel and is expected to report to work in inclement weather and during some holidays

This position is eligible for a $1,000 sign-on incentive.
For more information, please contact Amy Muller, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist, at shieldsa@upenn.edu

Qualifications:

• Associate degree and 5-7 years of experience as a Certified Veterinary Technician, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must hold Pennsylvania CVT credentials (or be eligible to obtain).
• VTS certification (or strong interest in obtaining) given highest consideration.
• Prior supervisory, lead, or management experience preferred.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Physical ability to lift up to 20 lbs., bend, and kneel while providing patient care.

Skills and Competencies

• Inpatient and general practice nursing expertise.
• Leadership, mentorship, and team management.
• Effective communication across multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and time management skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment

Job Location - City, State
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School
School of Veterinary Medicine

Pay Range
$74,500.00 - $92,000.00 Annual Rate

To learn more, please visit: https://www.hr.upenn.edu/PennHR/benefits-pay