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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Crete, IL (NOW HIRING)

Balanced mix of urgent care and wellness cases - no two days are the same What Makes You a Great Fit * 2+ years of veterinary assistant experience; emergency or urgent care is a plus but not required

Veterinary Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Balanced mix of urgent care and wellness cases - no two days are the same What Makes You a Great Fit * 2+ years of veterinary assistant experience; emergency or urgent care is a plus but not required

Veterinary Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

As a Veterinary Assistant at VCA Ark, you'll play a vital role in creating a smooth, low-stress experience for patients and clients alike. Below are some of the many benefits of joining the VCA team!

Veterinary Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

The Opportunity: As a Veterinary Assistant, you are an essential part of our clinical team, supporting doctors and technicians in delivering excellent care while ensuring that our hospital ...

Veterinary Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

The Opportunity: As a Veterinary Assistant, you are an essential part of our clinical team, supporting doctors and technicians in delivering excellent care while ensuring that our hospital ...

Veterinary Assistant

Chicago, IL

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

The Opportunity: As a Veterinary Assistant, you are an essential part of our clinical team, supporting doctors and technicians in delivering excellent care while ensuring that our hospital ...

Veterinary Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

Location: 6854 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60707 Join Our Amazing Team at VCA Mont Clare Animal Hospital ! We're currently seeking a Veterinary Assistant to join our dedicated and compassionate team.

Veterinary Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Your Impact as a Veterinary Assistant * Provide Essential Patient Care: You'll be a key player in the health of our patients, assisting the medical team with hands-on care and ensuring every animal ...

Veterinary Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Your Impact as a Veterinary Assistant * Provide Essential Patient Care: You'll be a key player in the health of our patients, assisting the medical team with hands-on care and ensuring every animal ...

Veterinary Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

General Information Ref # 52642 Department Vet Tech / Vet Assistant / VT Campus Job Site Metropolitan Veterinary Center (Chicago) Date Published 07-14-2026 Pay Class Full-Time Base Min. $ 18 Base Max ...

Veterinary Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Your Impact as a Veterinary Assistant * Provide Essential Patient Care: You'll be a key player in the health of our patients, assisting the medical team with hands-on care and ensuring every animal ...

Veterinary Assistant

Palos Park, IL · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Your Impact as a Veterinary Assistant * Provide Essential Patient Care: You'll be a key player in the health of our patients, assisting the medical team with hands-on care and ensuring every animal ...

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Veterinary Assistant information

See Crete, IL salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Crete, IL is $16.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $18.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is being a veterinary assistant worth it?

Veterinary assistants perform tasks such as animal care, cleaning, and supporting veterinarians, often working in clinics or animal hospitals. The role can be rewarding for those passionate about animals but typically offers entry-level pay and requires physical stamina and good communication skills. Career advancement may involve gaining experience or pursuing additional certifications in veterinary technology.

Can I be a veterinary assistant with no experience?

Veterinary assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as animal handling, communication, and a willingness to learn are valuable, and some employers may prefer candidates with related coursework or certifications. Entry-level roles provide opportunities to gain practical experience in a veterinary setting.

What qualifications do you need to be a veterinary assistant?

Veterinary assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. While formal education is not always required, completing a veterinary assistant training program or certification can improve job prospects. Basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

What are some typical challenges veterinary assistants face when working in fast-paced animal clinics?

Veterinary assistants in busy clinics often juggle multiple tasks, such as restraining animals, cleaning exam rooms, assisting with procedures, and communicating with pet owners. Managing high patient volume while maintaining accuracy and compassion can be challenging, especially during emergencies or peak hours. Teamwork, adaptability, and strong organizational skills are essential to handle shifting priorities and ensure quality care for both animals and clients.

What do veterinary assistants do?

Veterinary Assistants, or vet assistants, help Veterinarians and Veterinarian Technicians in animal care hospitals, animal clinics, or other veterinary facilities. As a Veterinary Assistant, you feed, bathe, and exercise animals in your care. Veterinarian Assistants also restrain animals when the vet examines or treats them. Other job duties may include greeting pet owners when they enter the office, organizing files, and cleaning and sterilizing equipment. Some Veterinary Assistant positions require you to perform lab work, such as collecting urine samples from animals, drawing blood, and administering medication under the supervision of the primary veterinarian or technician.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a veterinary assistant, and why are they important?

Veterinary Assistants need a basic understanding of animal care, handling, and medical terminology, often supported by a high school diploma or veterinary assistant certification. Familiarity with animal restraint techniques, cleaning protocols, and veterinary software systems is common in this role. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong teamwork skills distinguish exceptional Veterinary Assistants. These abilities are crucial for ensuring animal well-being, supporting veterinarians, and maintaining an efficient, safe clinical environment.

What do I need to be a veterinary assistant?

To become a veterinary assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include animal handling, communication, and basic knowledge of veterinary procedures; some employers may prefer certification or on-the-job training. Physical stamina and the ability to work in a veterinary clinic environment are also important.

What is the difference between Veterinary Assistant vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary AssistantVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAssist veterinarians and technicians in clinics, animal shelters, and labsPerform more advanced medical procedures under supervision in clinics and hospitals
Job ResponsibilitiesAnimal restraint, cleaning, basic patient care, clerical tasksPerform lab work, administer medications, assist in surgeries, diagnostic testing
Industry UsageCommon entry-level role in veterinary practicesMore specialized role requiring formal education and certification

The main difference between a Veterinary Assistant and a Veterinary Technician lies in their education, responsibilities, and level of medical involvement. Veterinary Technicians have formal training and perform more complex medical tasks, while Veterinary Assistants focus on basic support and animal care. Both roles are essential in veterinary settings, but technicians typically have greater responsibilities and qualifications.

Is becoming a veterinary assistant worth it?

Veterinary assistants perform basic animal care, assist veterinarians, and often work in clinics or animal hospitals. The role typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and offers opportunities for on-the-job training, with job growth driven by increasing pet ownership and demand for veterinary services.
What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Crete, IL? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Crete, IL are:
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What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Crete, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Crete, IL are:
What cities near Crete, IL are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Crete, IL with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Crete, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,351 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

$17 - $22/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Veterinary Practice Partners rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 176 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

Veterinary Assistant

Harvester Veterinary Hospital of Burr Ridge is hiring a full-time Veterinary Assistant to work alongside our team of experienced veterinarians, skilled technicians, and devoted support staff to ensure each animal receives the best possible care during their stay with us. If you are enthusiastic, reliable, and excited about helping us maintain our high standards of animal care and customer service, we would love to hear from you!

What to Expect
As you join our team, expect to be supported in your work and home life with:

  • All the benefits you deserve-medical, dental, vision, retirement-plus an employee pet discount because we know your pets are family, too.
  • Paid time off. Catch your breath with paid holidays and PTO.
  • Continuing Education for our registered veterinary technicians.

Salary: $17-$22 per hour, based on the candidate's skills, experience, and qualifications.

Schedule: This is a full-time position. The hospital is open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM, and Saturday, 7:30 AM - 1:30 PM.

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Assist veterinarians and vet techs during examinations, treatments, and surgeries
  • Handle and restrain animals safely and compassionately
  • Prepare examination rooms and surgical areas by cleaning and sterilizing equipment and surfaces
  • Perform basic laboratory tests, such as collecting blood, urine, and stool samples
  • Administer medications and vaccinations under the supervision of a veterinarian
  • Feed, bathe, and exercise animals as needed
  • Maintain accurate medical records
  • Communicate with pet owners about their pets' care, treatment plans, and follow-up visits
  • Clean and maintain the clinic, including stocking supplies and ensuring a safe and sanitary environment

Qualifications:

  • Must have 1+ years of veterinary assistant experience.
  • Technical know-how in areas such as disinfection, administering medication, and using diagnostic equipment.
  • Physical ability to handle animals safely and compassionately.

About Harvester Veterinary Hospital of Burr Ridge
Harvester Veterinary Hospital is proud to be part of the Burr Ridge and Chicago communities, helping pets and owners alike get the care, service, and support necessary to ensure that they can spend their lives together in happiness and good health. Our veterinary team is dedicated to serving the full range of medical needs for common pets, providing everything from routine examinations to potentially lifesaving surgical procedures - and everything in between.

#VETASST


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