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Dvm Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bond Vet

DVM Student Externship - Chicago

Chicago, IL · On-site

BondVet's DVM Student Externship Program gives 3rd- and 4th-year veterinary students the chance to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, mentorship-driven clinic environment. You'll work directly ...

Bond Vet

DVM Student Externship - Chicago

Chicago, IL · On-site

BondVet's DVM Student Externship Program gives 3rd- and 4th-year veterinary students the chance to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, mentorship-driven clinic environment. You'll work directly ...

Desort

Veterinarian (DVM) - Niles, IL

Niles, IL · On-site

Veterinarian (DVM) - Niles, IL An established companion-animal practice is seeking a dedicated veterinarian to join a collaborative clinical environment focused on delivering high-quality patient ...

DVM Elite

Sales Growth Marketer (Remote)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$18.50/hr

DVM Elite: Mission and Vision Our mission encompasses more than just financial growth; it's about leaving a profound and as big as positive mark on the world and is driven by a vision to cultivate a ...

DVM Elite

Sales Growth Marketer (Remote)

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18.50/hr

DVM Elite: Mission and Vision Our mission encompasses more than just financial growth; it's about leaving a profound and as big as positive mark on the world and is driven by a vision to cultivate a ...

DVM Elite

Sales Growth Marketer (Remote)

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18.50/hr

DVM Elite: Mission and Vision Our mission encompasses more than just financial growth; it's about leaving a profound and as big as positive mark on the world and is driven by a vision to cultivate a ...

Alliance Animal Health

DVM Student Externship

Crete, IL · On-site

DVM Student Externship Plum Creek Regional Animal Medical Center is a well-established, progressive, fast-paced 3 doctor small animal practice with a near-by outpatient clinic. Plum Creek offers many ...

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All JobsDvm JobsDvm Jobs in Chicago, IL

Dvm information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$51K

$170.6K

$303.1K

How much do dvm jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for dvm in Chicago, IL is $170,647.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,500.00 and $224,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a DVM?

DVM stands for Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. DVMs are licensed professionals who diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases and injuries in animals. They provide medical care for a variety of animals, including pets, livestock, and sometimes wildlife. In addition to clinical work, DVMs may also be involved in research, public health, or education related to animal health.

What does a DVM do in a small animal clinic?

A typical day for a DVM in a small animal clinic involves a mix of scheduled appointments, walk-in emergencies, and routine surgical procedures. You’ll often start with patient check-ins, reviewing cases, and performing physical exams. Throughout the day, you may conduct diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, perform surgeries, and consult with pet owners about preventive care. Collaboration with veterinary technicians, assistants, and other veterinarians is essential to ensure high-quality patient care and efficient clinic operations. The pace can be fast and unpredictable, especially when dealing with urgent cases or complex medical issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DVM?

To thrive as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), you need a veterinary degree and state licensure, along with strong diagnostic, surgical, and animal care skills. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, diagnostic imaging tools, and laboratory equipment is typically required. Compassion, problem-solving, and effective communication with pet owners and staff are essential soft skills. These competencies are crucial for delivering quality animal healthcare, ensuring accurate diagnoses, and fostering trust with clients.

What is the difference between Dvm vs Vet Technician?

AspectDvmVet Technician
Required CredentialsDoctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, licensing examAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in veterinary technology, certification
Work EnvironmentVeterinary clinics, hospitals, research facilitiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, labs
Employer & Industry UsageVeterinary practices, research institutionsVeterinary clinics, animal care facilities

The DVM is a licensed veterinarian responsible for diagnosing and treating animals, while vet technicians assist veterinarians with medical procedures and animal care. Both roles are essential in veterinary settings, but the DVM holds the primary medical authority.

What else can you do with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine?

A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) can work in various roles beyond clinical practice, including research, public health, animal shelter management, and regulatory agencies. They may also pursue careers in education, pharmaceutical development, or veterinary consulting, often requiring additional certifications or specialized training. DVMs use their medical knowledge, diagnostic skills, and understanding of animal biology in diverse settings.

Why are so many veterinarians quitting?

Many veterinarians are quitting due to high levels of stress, long working hours, and emotional burnout from dealing with suffering animals and demanding clients. Additionally, the profession often involves administrative burdens and relatively low compensation compared to workload, leading to job dissatisfaction and early career exits.
Dvm jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dvm job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $170,647 per year, or $82 per hour.

DVM Student Externship - Chicago

Bond Vet

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

                                                                                                                       
Step out of the classroom and into real-world veterinary medicine! BondVet's DVM Student Externship Program gives 3rd- and 4th-year veterinary students the chance to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, mentorship-driven clinic environment.

You'll work directly with patients, assist with procedures, observe surgeries, and engage with pet parents-all under the guidance of our experienced doctors and veterinary team. This is your opportunity to sharpen your skills, explore your clinical interests, and grow as a future veterinarian.

Program Overview:

(You must be enrolled in vet school in order to apply). Our experienced medical and clinical professionals are dedicated to curating a diverse learning experience for you. During your time as a DVM Student Extern at Bond Vet, you can anticipate exposure to a wide array of urgent care cases and routine wellness scenarios. Additionally, you'll receive valuable mentorship from our exceptional Doctors. Here's a glimpse of what you can expect to encounter during your externship with us:

Appointments/Client Communication

  • Interact with Pet Parents 
  • Observe the development of treatment plan, estimate creation and presentation 
  • Review medical records and take patient history
  • Perform physical exams

Treatments

  • Assist treatment team administering medications, SQ fluids, IV fluids,etc. (Under direct supervision of LVT or DVM)

Procedures/Surgeries

  • Place urinary catheters in male dogs (under direct supervision of LVT and/or DVM) 
  • Draw blood on stable animals from Cephalic and Saphenous veins, under supervision by a nurse
  • Help in use of ultrasound to identify anatomy
  • Scrub in and assist in any procedure under full supervision of the Doctor performing said procedure

Laboratory Tests

  • Observe sample preparation for reference laboratory testing 
  • Prepare and review ear cytology samples and blood smear samples

To participate in the Student DVM Externship Program, you must:

  • Currently be enrolled in your 3rd or 4th year in an AVMA-accredited DVM Program
  • Have an open mind, a willingness to learn, and a collaborative spirit
  • Demonstrate the ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Uphold confidentiality standards for sensitive information
  • Possess effective communication skills
  • Be capable of lifting objects up to 40 pounds and performing physical tasks like bending, crouching, squatting, and carrying equipment
  • Provide proof of medical insurance, rabies vaccine/titer, tetanus vaccine, and a recent TB test prior to starting the program

Time Commitment:

  • Externships are a minimum of two weeks and can extend up to three weeks based on your school requirements 
  • Your schedule will be created based on your school requirements and provided to you before your first day in the clinic  
  • Weekend hours may be required based on your school requirements and supervising Doctors schedule  
  • You will never be asked to work a late or early shift as all of our clinics have standard operating hours based on the region and do not offer overnight boarding

How to Apply:

We accept externship applications throughout the year. However, due to high demand, we recommend submitting your application at least one year in advance of your expected rotation. To apply, please submit the following:

  • Resume
  • Three (3) sets of available dates
  • Any school requirements, policies or forms regarding externships 

Note: This externship is for credit and you must make your own accommodation and transportation arrangements.  Select your preferred region, and the specific clinic will be assigned during interview process. 

Apply