Start your career in veterinary care with ShotVet helping veterinarians provide affordable pet ... Future Veterinary Assistants / Vet Techs * Anyone looking for an entry level animal care job
Start your career in veterinary care with ShotVet helping veterinarians provide affordable pet ... Future Veterinary Assistants / Vet Techs * Anyone looking for an entry level animal care job
Ward / Kennel Staff - NOW EMPLOYEE-OWNED!
Bannockburn, IL · On-site
$17/hr
... become Veterinary Technician Assistants or they even decide to go back to school and become ... This position is full-time, entry-level, physically demanding, yet very rewarding. Benefits:
Ward / Kennel Staff - NOW EMPLOYEE-OWNED!
Bannockburn, IL · On-site
$17/hr
... become Veterinary Technician Assistants or they even decide to go back to school and become ... This position is full-time, entry-level, physically demanding, yet very rewarding. Benefits:
Ward / Kennel Staff - NOW EMPLOYEE-OWNED!
Bannockburn, IL · On-site
$17/hr
... become Veterinary Technician Assistants or they even decide to go back to school and become ... This position is full-time, entry-level, physically demanding, yet very rewarding. Benefits:
Ward / Kennel Staff - NOW EMPLOYEE-OWNED!
Bannockburn, IL · On-site
$17/hr
... become Veterinary Technician Assistants or they even decide to go back to school and become ... This position is full-time, entry-level, physically demanding, yet very rewarding. Benefits:
Animal Care Team Member
$14.75 - $20/hr
This position is an excellent entry level position for those seeking a career in Veterinary ... assist with minor procedures when necessary. This includes, but is not limited to the ability to ...
Animal Care Team Member
$14.75 - $20/hr
This position is an excellent entry level position for those seeking a career in Veterinary ... assist with minor procedures when necessary. This includes, but is not limited to the ability to ...
Animal Care Team Member
$15 - $17/hr
This position is an excellent entry level position for those seeking a career in Veterinary ... assist with minor procedures when necessary. This includes, but is not limited to the ability to ...
Animal Care Team Member
$15 - $17/hr
This position is an excellent entry level position for those seeking a career in Veterinary ... assist with minor procedures when necessary. This includes, but is not limited to the ability to ...
Animal Care Team Member
Glen Carbon, IL · On-site
$14.75 - $20/hr
This position is an excellent entry level position for those seeking a career in Veterinary ... assist with minor procedures when necessary. This includes, but is not limited to the ability to ...
Animal Care Team Member
Glen Carbon, IL · On-site
$14.75 - $20/hr
This position is an excellent entry level position for those seeking a career in Veterinary ... assist with minor procedures when necessary. This includes, but is not limited to the ability to ...
Animal Care Team Member
Glen Carbon, IL · On-site
$15 - $17/hr
This position is an excellent entry level position for those seeking a career in Veterinary ... assist with minor procedures when necessary. This includes, but is not limited to the ability to ...
Animal Care Team Member
Glen Carbon, IL · On-site
$15 - $17/hr
This position is an excellent entry level position for those seeking a career in Veterinary ... assist with minor procedures when necessary. This includes, but is not limited to the ability to ...
Clinical Assistant Professor- IL- Physical Therapy Institute
Downers Grove, IL · On-site
$97K - $105K/hr
Qualifications include : 1) entry-level or transitional DPT, 2) eligibility for licensure in ... sciences and veterinary medicine. Over 500 full-time faculty members and 400 staff members are ...
Clinical Assistant Professor- IL- Physical Therapy Institute
Downers Grove, IL · On-site
$97K - $105K/hr
Qualifications include : 1) entry-level or transitional DPT, 2) eligibility for licensure in ... sciences and veterinary medicine. Over 500 full-time faculty members and 400 staff members are ...
Qualifications include : 1) entry-level or transitional DPT, 2) eligibility for licensure in ... sciences and veterinary medicine. Over 500 full-time faculty members and 400 staff members are ...
Qualifications include : 1) entry-level or transitional DPT, 2) eligibility for licensure in ... sciences and veterinary medicine. Over 500 full-time faculty members and 400 staff members are ...
Qualifications include : 1) entry-level or transitional DPT, 2) eligibility for licensure in ... sciences and veterinary medicine. Over 500 full-time faculty members and 400 staff members are ...
Qualifications include : 1) entry-level or transitional DPT, 2) eligibility for licensure in ... sciences and veterinary medicine. Over 500 full-time faculty members and 400 staff members are ...
... veterinary and research teams ... Career Levels & Pay 🔹 Research Animal Care Technician Associate (Entry Level) Starting Pay: $20 ...
... veterinary and research teams ... Career Levels & Pay 🔹 Research Animal Care Technician Associate (Entry Level) Starting Pay: $20 ...
Entry Level Veterinary Assistant information
See Illinois salary details
$9.78 - $10.99
2% of jobs
$10.99 - $12.20
4% of jobs
$12.20 - $13.40
6% of jobs
$14.47 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.40 - $14.61
14% of jobs
$14.61 - $15.82
22% of jobs
The median wage is $15.90 / hr.
$15.82 - $17.03
16% of jobs
$17.98 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$17.03 - $18.23
13% of jobs
$18.23 - $19.44
10% of jobs
$19.44 - $20.65
7% of jobs
$20.65 - $21.85
3% of jobs
$21.85 - $23.06
2% of jobs
$9
$16
$23
How much do entry level veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level veterinary assistant in Illinois is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $18.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is an entry level veterinary assistant?
Entry level veterinary assistants are individuals who support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal clinics or hospitals, typically with little to no prior experience in the field. Their duties often include feeding and bathing animals, cleaning kennels, assisting with restraint during exams, sanitizing equipment, and performing basic administrative tasks. This role is a great starting point for those interested in animal care and provides valuable hands-on experience. Entry level veterinary assistants usually work under direct supervision and may receive on-the-job training. The position can also serve as a stepping stone for further education and advancement in veterinary medicine.
What does an entry level veterinary assistant do?
Entry-level temporary positions include positions like data entry clerk and administrative assistant. You usually find these jobs through a temporary contract based on current company staffing needs. These jobs frequently offer some training and do not require any previous industry experience to get the assignment. As a temp, you may help provide different types of support, such as working phones, making orders, or adding information to databases. The duration of each contract can vary, but they can run anywhere from several weeks to several months. Any positions that require more than a year of work are usually full jobs instead of temporary contracts.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level veterinary assistant, and why are they important?
To thrive as an Entry Level Veterinary Assistant, you need a basic understanding of animal care, handling procedures, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with veterinary management software, medical equipment, and proper sanitation practices is often required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you work effectively with both animals and their owners. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining animal well-being, ensuring smooth clinic operations, and providing supportive care to clients and veterinary teams.
What are some common challenges faced by entry level veterinary assistants and how can they prepare for them?
Entry level veterinary assistants often face challenges such as handling stressed or frightened animals, managing fast-paced workloads, and communicating effectively with both veterinary staff and pet owners. It's important to develop strong observation and multitasking skills, as well as resilience when dealing with emotional situations like euthanasia or critical care cases. Seeking mentorship from experienced team members and staying organized can help new assistants adapt more quickly and contribute positively to the clinic environment.
What is the difference between Entry Level Veterinary Assistant vs Veterinary Technician?
| Aspect | Entry Level Veterinary Assistant | Veterinary Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training | Associate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required |
| Work Environment | Animal clinics, shelters, pet hospitals; assisting with basic care | More advanced clinical tasks; assisting veterinarians with diagnostics and procedures |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Commonly employed in veterinary clinics and animal care facilities | Typically found in veterinary hospitals and clinics with more complex services |
| Search & Comparison Intent | Often compared for entry-level roles in veterinary support | Compared for more advanced veterinary support roles |
Entry Level Veterinary Assistants perform basic animal care and support tasks with minimal formal education, while Veterinary Technicians have specialized training and certification, enabling them to handle more complex clinical duties. Both roles are essential in veterinary settings, but Veterinary Technicians typically require more education and perform more advanced procedures.
Can I be an entry level veterinary assistant with no experience?
Entry level veterinary assistants typically do not need prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as animal handling, communication, and a willingness to learn are often sufficient to start in this role, though some employers may prefer candidates with related coursework or certifications like veterinary assistant programs.
How to get started as an entry level veterinary assistant?
To start as an entry-level veterinary assistant, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and consider completing a veterinary assistant training program or certification. Gaining experience through volunteering or internships at veterinary clinics can also improve job prospects; strong communication and basic animal care skills are essential. Many positions require familiarity with medical terminology, animal handling, and basic cleaning procedures.
Is it hard to get a job as an entry level veterinary assistant?
Entry level veterinary assistant positions are generally accessible to individuals with a high school diploma or equivalent and a willingness to learn. While competition can vary by location, gaining relevant skills such as animal handling and basic medical knowledge can improve chances of employment; some employers also value certification or on-the-job training.
More about Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs in Illinois?
For Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs in Illinois look for?
The top searched job categories for Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs?
Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Animal Care Assistant- Entry Level (Weekends)
Naperville, IL • On-site
ShotVet •
Veterinary Services • 1 - 10 employees1 - 10 employees
Full-time
Re-posted 25 days ago
Job description
???? Animal Care Assistant (Weekend Mobile Clinic) – No Experience Needed!
???? Location: Naperville, IL (Traveling is required)
???? Schedule: Friday–Sunday
???? Pay: Competitive Hourly Rate + Bonus Opportunities
???? Experience: No experience required – Paid training provided
Love animals? Start your career in veterinary care with ShotVet helping veterinarians provide affordable pet vaccine and wellness clinics for dogs and cats.
What You’ll DoAssist veterinarians during pet vaccine clinics
Handle and comfort dogs and cats
Help with check-in, paperwork, and client support
Support clinic setup and breakdown
Valid driver’s license required and HS Diploma or GED
Comfortable handling dogs and cats; Highly Preferred - existing knowledge in Preventative Wellness for pets
Able to lift up to 40 lbs
Reliable and team-oriented
Students interested in veterinary medicine
Future Veterinary Assistants / Vet Techs
Anyone looking for an entry level animal care job
Those who like to travel!
Apply today to gain hands-on experience helping pets stay healthy.
About ShotVet
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Veterinary services
Company size
1 - 10 Employees
Headquarters location
Longwood, FL, US
Year founded
2004