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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Niles, IL · On-site

$17.60 - $22.49/hr

Utilize technical skills to the fullest, within state practice acts and as outlined in the NAVTA guidelines for veterinary assistant skills and duties. Mentor other paraprofessionals in the hospital.

VCA Animal Hospitals

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.

VCA Animal Hospitals

Veterinary Assistant GP

Aurora, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Primary Care Veterinary Assistant at VCA Aurora Animal Hospital in Aurora, IL Schedule: Part-time, Thursday, Friday, and one Saturday shift per month. 20 -25 hours. About Our Hospital VCA Aurora ...

Mission Pet Health

Veterinary Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

General Information Ref # 53850 Department Vet Tech / Vet Assistant / VT Campus Job Site Metropolitan Veterinary Center (Chicago) Date Published 08-16-2026 Pay Class Full-Time Base Min. $ 19 Base Max ...

Thrive Pet Healthcare

Veterinary Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Description Veterinary Assistant Family Pet Animal Hospital Chicago, IL Full-time: 4-day work week with rotating Saturday Who we are Family Pet Animal Hospital, a five-doctor, AAHA-accredited, Cat ...

Mission Pet Health

Veterinary Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/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 ...

Mission Pet Health

Veterinary Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Ashland Avenue Chicago, IL 60613 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 ...

Mission Pet Health

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 ...

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All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Park Ridge, IL

Veterinary Assistant information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$9

$16

$23

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Park Ridge, IL is $16.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 certifications or coursework in animal care. Entry-level roles provide opportunities to gain practical experience in a veterinary setting.

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.

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 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 program or certification can improve job prospects. Strong communication skills, basic knowledge of animal care, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.
More about Veterinary Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Park Ridge, IL?

The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:

What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Park Ridge, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,286 per year, or $17 per hour.

Overnight Veterinary Assistant

VCA Animal Hospitals

Downers Grove, IL

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

VCA Animal Hospitals rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 660 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 56 rated veterinary

Job description

Emergency & Critical Care Veterinary Assistant at VCA Arboretum View Animal Hospital

Schedule: Full-time opportunity. Overnight/3rd shift schedule, 7:00 PM - 8:00 AM.

Compensation: $20 - 30/hr. Starting pay is determined by skill set, experience, and qualifications. Financial growth opportunities are available.

This is an exciting opportunity for a Veterinary Assistant who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys being an essential part of a collaborative emergency team. No two days are the same as you support critically ill patients, assist with life-saving procedures, and help provide exceptional care to pets and their families.

In This Role, You Will:
  • Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians with emergency procedures and patient treatments.
  • Support patient triage and help prepare patients for examinations, diagnostics, and treatments.
  • Safely restrain patients for examinations, treatments, and diagnostic procedures.
  • Prepare and maintain treatment areas, surgical suites, and medical equipment.
  • Collect and process laboratory samples, perform basic laboratory duties, and assist with diagnostic imaging.
  • Monitor hospitalized patients and promptly communicate changes in patient condition to the medical team.
  • Maintain accurate medical records and ensure treatments are completed efficiently.
  • Provide compassionate care to patients while supporting clients during stressful situations.
  • Help create a positive, collaborative environment focused on outstanding patient care.
About Us

VCA Arboretum View Animal Hospital is an AAHA-accredited, multi-specialty referral and emergency hospital located in Downers Grove, Illinois. Our team includes Emergency & Critical Care, Specialty Services, and highly trained support staff who are committed to advancing veterinary medicine while providing compassionate care to pets and the people who love them.

We take pride in fostering a culture of teamwork, continuous learning, and professional development, making Arboretum View an excellent place for Veterinary Assistants looking to expand their skills in emergency and specialty medicine.

As part of Mars Veterinary Health, we're committed to helping our teams grow while making a lasting impact on pets and the people who love them.

WhatWe'reLooking For

  • 2+years of Veterinary Assistant experience

  • Strong work ethic and willingness to learn

  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills

  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment

    Total Rewards

    As a VCA Associate, eligible full-time employees receive a comprehensive benefits package which may include:

    • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

    • 401(k) with company match

    • Paid vacation and sick time

    • Paid parental leave

    • Mental wellness resources including Headspace and Lyra

    • Continuing education and internal development programs

    Discover AdditionalBenefits| VCA (vcacareers.com)

    Apply today!

    Location: 2551 Warrenville Road, Downers Grove, IL, 60515

    If you are a current associate, you need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.

    Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development).We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com.

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