What steps should a vegetarian take to ensure they get proper levels of protein

The first reply is right. Read to understand what type of vegetarian diet one wants to follow as there are different types.
For example, the lacto-ovo vegetarian can eat milk, cheeses, eggs which have good amounts of proteins.

Learn what combination of foods can give better protein if combined. Beans & rice are almost a perfect protein together.

Seek out a vegetarian store or nutritionist to help guide the many ways to eat vegetarian even in restaurants.

Eating right and exercising daily