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Animal Care Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

CareVet Health

Veterinarian | Lincoln, IL

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Advise animal owners about general care, medical conditions, and treatments * Prescribe medication * Work closely in collaboration with team members to provide high quality care Qualifications

CareVet Health

Veterinarian | Lincoln, IL

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Advise animal owners about general care, medical conditions, and treatments * Prescribe medication * Work closely in collaboration with team members to provide high quality care Qualifications

National Veterinary Associates

Veterinarian

Decatur, IL · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

We are a well-established, AAHA-accredited , full-service small animal veterinary hospital. We provide comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care for canines, felines, exotics, pocket pets, and ...

NVA

Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)

Decatur, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Partnerships with Macon County Animal Control and Decatur & Macon County Animal Shelter Foundation ... Patient Nursing & Care * Client Communication & Education Confidence, initiative, and a passion for ...

NVA

Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)

Decatur, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Partnerships with Macon County Animal Control and Decatur & Macon County Animal Shelter Foundation ... Patient Nursing & Care * Client Communication & Education Confidence, initiative, and a passion for ...

NVA

Veterinarian

Decatur, IL · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

We are a well-established, AAHA-accredited , full-service small animal veterinary hospital. We provide comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care for canines, felines, exotics, pocket pets, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Sales Associate Full Time

Forsyth, IL

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Responsible for the pet healthcare of store owned pets, which includes feeding, watering and cleaning all pet habitats (bird, reptile, small animal, cricket, and fish aquariums). * Maintains total ...

PetSmart

Retail Sales Associate Full Time

Forsyth, IL

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Responsible for the pet healthcare of store owned pets, which includes feeding, watering and cleaning all pet habitats (bird, reptile, small animal, cricket, and fish aquariums). * Maintains total ...

PetSmart

Retail Sales Associate Full Time

Forsyth, IL

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Responsible for the pet healthcare of store owned pets, which includes feeding, watering and cleaning all pet habitats (bird, reptile, small animal, cricket, and fish aquariums). * Maintains total ...

PetSmart

Retail Sales Associate Full Time

Forsyth, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Responsible for the pet healthcare of store owned pets, which includes feeding, watering and cleaning all pet habitats (bird, reptile, small animal, cricket, and fish aquariums). * Maintains total ...

PetSmart

Retail Sales Associate Full Time

Forsyth, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Responsible for the pet healthcare of store owned pets, which includes feeding, watering and cleaning all pet habitats (bird, reptile, small animal, cricket, and fish aquariums). * Maintains total ...

PetSmart

Retail Sales Associate Part Time

Forsyth, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Responsible for the pet healthcare of store owned pets, which includes feeding, watering and cleaning all pet habitats (bird, reptile, small animal, cricket, and fish aquariums). * Maintains total ...

PetSmart

Retail Sales Associate Full Time

Forsyth, IL

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Responsible for the pet healthcare of store owned pets, which includes feeding, watering and cleaning all pet habitats (bird, reptile, small animal, cricket, and fish aquariums). * Maintains total ...

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All JobsAnimal Care JobsAnimal Care Jobs in Decatur, IL

Animal Care information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$9

$17

$26

How much do animal care jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal care in Decatur, IL is $17.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animal care worker?

Animal care workers are professionals who provide daily care and support for animals in various settings, such as shelters, zoos, veterinary clinics, and pet boarding facilities. Their responsibilities typically include feeding, grooming, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and assisting with medical treatments. They play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being and safety of animals and often work closely with veterinarians and animal trainers. Compassion, attention to detail, and physical stamina are important qualities for success in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal care professional?

To thrive as an Animal Care professional, you need a strong understanding of animal behavior, basic veterinary care, and proper handling techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with animal management software, feeding and cleaning protocols, and safety equipment is typically required. Compassion, patience, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for building trust with animals and working well with team members. These skills ensure the health, safety, and well-being of animals while maintaining efficient and humane care standards.

What are some common challenges faced by animal care professionals, and how can they be managed effectively?

Animal care professionals frequently encounter challenges such as handling animals with unpredictable behavior, managing emotionally difficult situations like illness or euthanasia, and maintaining strict sanitation standards. Building strong observation skills, practicing patience, and adhering to safety protocols can help manage these challenges. Additionally, teamwork and open communication with colleagues, as well as ongoing training, are crucial for ensuring both animal welfare and personal well-being.

What are different types of animal care jobs?

There are many different animal care jobs available, and which one you choose to do depends on your qualifications, interests, and training. If you are interested in working with household pets, you can find work as a vet tech or assistant, a pet groomer, or an animal trainer. If you have higher qualifications and an interest in working with larger or more exotic animals, you can work as a zoo caretaker or even in a state park or wildlife refuge. The qualifications for all of these jobs vary drastically from no education to a doctorate.

What is the difference between Animal Care vs Veterinary Assistant?

AspectAnimal CareVeterinary Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications varyHigh school diploma; often requires veterinary assistant certification
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, pet stores, kennels, rescue organizationsVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal care facilities, pet services, sheltersVeterinary practices, animal healthcare industry
Common Search & ComparisonAnimal Care vs Veterinary Assistant

Animal Care roles focus on caring for animals in shelters, pet stores, and rescue organizations, often requiring basic certifications. Veterinary Assistants work directly in veterinary clinics, assisting veterinarians with medical procedures and patient care, usually needing specific certifications. While both roles involve animal handling, Veterinary Assistants have a more medical focus, whereas Animal Care roles emphasize daily animal welfare and enrichment.

What animal care jobs pay well?

Animal care jobs that tend to pay higher salaries include veterinary technicians, zoo keepers, and animal researchers, often requiring specialized skills or certifications. Positions in wildlife rehabilitation or working with exotic animals can also offer higher pay, especially with experience and advanced training.

What jobs can I do if I love animals?

Animal care offers various job opportunities such as veterinary technician, animal shelter worker, pet groomer, zookeeper, and pet trainer. These roles typically require knowledge of animal behavior, some may need certifications or training, and often involve working in environments like clinics, shelters, or zoos.

What jobs can I do in animal care?

Jobs in animal care include roles such as veterinary technician, animal caretaker, pet groomer, zookeeper, and animal trainer. These positions often require specific skills, certifications, or experience working with animals in settings like clinics, shelters, zoos, or grooming salons.
More about Animal Care jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL?

The most popular types of Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL?

For Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL are:

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Animal Care jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Animal Care job openings:

Animal Care jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Care job openings in Decatur, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,913 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Veterinarian | Lincoln, IL

CareVet Health

Lincoln, IL • On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Overview
Looking for a flexible opportunity where you can mentor others, practice high-quality medicine, and enjoy variety across two supportive hospitals?
Timbercrest Veterinary Services is seeking an experienced veterinarian to join our collaborative team and provide care at our sister hospitals in Atlanta and Lincoln. This is a unique opportunity for a veterinarian who enjoys mentoring teammates, building client relationships, and practicing thoughtful medicine in a stable, well-supported environment.
Both full-time and part-time schedules will be considered.
Quick Snapshot
  • Full-time or part-time opportunity
  • Practice across two sister hospitals in Atlanta and Lincoln, Illinois
  • 3 DVM collaborative team
  • Experienced veterinarian with a passion for mentorship preferred
  • Mix of wellness, sick visits, surgery, and dentistry
  • Flexible full-time or part-time schedule with some Saturdays
  • Strong technician and support staff
  • Established, loyal client base
Pay Range
The position offers a base salary range of $100,000-$130,000 (depending on experience and schedule), along with competitive production opportunities and a $60k signing bonus package.
What It's Like to Practice Here
Timbercrest Veterinary Services offers the best of both worlds: the opportunity to practice at two well-established hospitals while working alongside a collaborative team of experienced professionals.
This is not a high-volume, high-pressure environment. Our doctors are supported by skilled technicians and staff, allowing you to focus on practicing quality medicine, mentoring others, and building long-term client relationships.
We prioritize:
  • Comfortable appointment pacing
  • Collaborative case discussion
  • Reliable technician support
  • Predictable scheduling and work-life balance
  • A respectful, team-oriented culture
This role is an excellent fit for a veterinarian who enjoys variety and wants to make a meaningful impact through mentorship and high-quality medicine.
Medical Capabilities & Equipment
You'll have access to the tools needed to practice efficiently and confidently, including:
  • Digital radiology
  • Ultrasound
  • In-house blood analyzers
  • Electronic medical records
  • Experienced support staff
Life in Lincoln and Atlanta
These central Illinois communities offer a welcoming small-town atmosphere with affordable living and easy access to larger cities.
You'll enjoy:
  • Short commutes and a low cost of living
  • Strong community connections
  • Convenient access to Springfield and Bloomington
  • Parks, local events, and family-friendly neighborhoods
This is an ideal setting for veterinarians seeking balance, stability, and a strong sense of community.
CareVet Offers You:
  • Six figure starting salary plus production with no negative accrual
  • Generous signing bonus, student loan support, relocation stipend and no upfront non-compete.
  • Custom compensation packages, tailored to the needs of the Veterinarian
  • Robust benefits package including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401k with match, company-paid short-term disability and life insurance
  • Parental support including paid parental leave and adoption assistance
  • Veterinarian-focused culture, schedule flexibility promoting work/life balance and paid time off with free access to Carebnb, CareVet's vacation properties
  • Mentorship-driven experience with strong focus on skill development and CE opportunities
  • Employee Assistance Program with a focus on compassion fatigue and stress support, including access to CareVet's on-staff licensed social worker
  • For our full list of Veterinarian benefits, check out CareVet's Ultimate CarePackage!
Responsibilities
  • Examine animals to assess their health and diagnose problems
  • Treat and dress wounds
  • Perform surgery on animals
  • Test for and vaccinate against diseases
  • Operate medical equipment, such as x-ray machines
  • Advise animal owners about general care, medical conditions, and treatments
  • Prescribe medication
  • Work closely in collaboration with team members to provide high quality care
Qualifications
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM/VMD) or equivalent degree required
  • Licensure in the state/s candidate will be working
  • Ability to show compassion to both pets and their owners
  • Outstanding dexterity in handling animals while performing precise tasks
  • Ability to react quickly and make decisions under pressure about the wellbeing of an animal
  • Strong fondness and understanding of animals
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills
  • Knowledge of animal behavior
  • Ability to use medical technologies during diagnosis, research and surgery of animals

How to Apply
Contact Skyler Lair
(214) 616-8873
✉ slair@carevethealth.com
Apply in just a few minutes - no lengthy application required.
About the Network
CareVet is a network of veterinary hospitals that focuses on managing best-in-class hospitals with a mission to provide the very best care for our pets and our Team Members. Our approach to veterinary medicine focuses on practice legacy, team, Veterinarians, patients and community.
Watch this video to learn more!

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