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Animal Rescue Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

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

Veterinarian

Springfield, IL · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

White Oaks West Animal Hospital is a well-established, multi-doctor companion animal practice committed to providing exceptional veterinary care to the pets and families of Springfield, Illinois. Our ...

Veterinary CSR

Lincoln, IL

$16.50 - $17.50/hr

The ideal candidate will be the first point of contact for our clients, providing exceptional customer service while supporting the veterinary staff in delivering high-quality care to our animal ...

Veterinary Assistant

Chatham, IL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

... animal practice treating both cats and dogs. We are a 2-doctor practice and are very fast-paced. Our work environment is a positive one and we take pride in cultivating relationships with both our ...

... animal practice treating both cats and dogs. We are a 2-doctor practice and are very fast-paced. Our work environment is a positive one and we take pride in cultivating relationships with both our ...

Veterinary Assistant

Springfield, IL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

You'll be a key player in the health of our patients, assisting the medical team with hands-on care and ensuring every animal is treated with compassion and respect. * Be the Go-To Support for the ...

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Animal Rescue information

See Springfield, IL salary details

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How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Springfield, IL is $20.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is animal rescue?

Animal rescue refers to the process of saving animals from dangerous, abusive, or neglectful situations and providing them with shelter, medical care, and rehabilitation. Animal rescue organizations work to protect stray, abandoned, or mistreated animals, often finding them foster or permanent homes. The main goal is to ensure the well-being and safety of animals, promoting responsible pet ownership and preventing cruelty. Rescued animals may include pets like dogs and cats, as well as wildlife in distress. Volunteers and professionals collaborate to give these animals a second chance at life.

What are some common challenges faced by animal rescue professionals, and how can they effectively address them?

Animal rescue professionals often encounter emotionally challenging situations, such as witnessing animal neglect or working with traumatized animals. They may also face physical demands, unpredictable schedules, and the need to make quick decisions in high-stress environments. Building emotional resilience, practicing self-care, and collaborating closely with veterinary staff, volunteers, and local authorities can help manage these challenges. Additionally, ongoing training and open communication within the team are essential for maintaining a supportive work environment and ensuring the best outcomes for rescued animals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Rescue Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Rescue Worker, you need knowledge of animal handling, first aid, and welfare, often supported by relevant certifications or experience with animals. Familiarity with animal control software, rescue equipment, and sometimes animal transport vehicles is typically required. Compassion, resilience, and strong communication skills are vital for building trust with animals and collaborating with the public and rescue organizations. These skills ensure the safety, effective care, and successful rehoming of animals in challenging and often urgent situations.

What is the difference between Animal Rescue vs Animal Shelter Worker?

AspectAnimal RescueAnimal Shelter Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; certifications in animal handling or rescue techniquesHigh school diploma; training in animal care and shelter operations
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, outdoor rescues, emergency situationsIndoor shelter facilities, animal care areas
Employer & Industry UsageRescue organizations, non-profits, government agenciesShelters, humane societies, animal control agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Animal Rescue involves actively seeking out and rescuing animals in distress, often in outdoor or emergency settings. Animal Shelter Workers primarily care for animals within shelter facilities, focusing on daily care and adoption processes. Both roles require animal handling skills and work within animal welfare organizations, but their work environments and specific duties differ significantly.

What job is it called when you rescue animals?

The job of rescuing animals is typically called an animal rescue worker or animal rescue technician. These professionals often work for shelters, rescue organizations, or wildlife agencies, and they may need training in animal handling, first aid, and sometimes certifications in animal care or veterinary assistance.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Rescue jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Springfield, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,393 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

$100K - $130K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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!