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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Assistant

Chatham, IL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Description Veterinary Assistant/Client Service Representative Grace Veterinary Clinic Chatham, IL Full-time: 35-40 hours/week, NO weekends/on-call | 7:15a-5:30p Compensation : $16-19/hr--based on ...

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... Assist the care team with daily office tasks • Keep the reception area clean and comfortable What Helps You Succeed • Experience in a veterinary or medical office is helpful • Clear ...

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Veterinary Assistant information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Springfield, IL is $17.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the top pay for a veterinary assistant?

The top pay for a veterinary assistant typically ranges from $15 to $20 per hour, with some experienced or specialized assistants earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the type of veterinary practice, and additional certifications may lead to higher compensation.

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 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 are veterinary assistants?

Veterinary assistants are animal care professionals who support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal clinics, hospitals, and shelters. Their duties include feeding, bathing, and exercising animals, cleaning and disinfecting kennels and exam rooms, and assisting with handling animals during examinations or procedures. They may also help with administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and maintaining records. Veterinary assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of animals and the smooth operation of veterinary facilities.

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 you be a vet assistant with no experience?

Veterinary assistants can often start with little or no prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as animal handling, communication, and a willingness to learn are important, and some employers may prefer candidates with related coursework or certifications. Gaining experience through volunteering or internships can improve job prospects and performance in this role.

What qualifications do you need to be a vet 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. Basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.
What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Veterinary Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL? For Veterinary Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Springfield, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,541 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

Grace Veterinary Clinic

Chatham, IL

$16 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

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Job description

Description

Veterinary Assistant/Client Service Representative
Grace Veterinary Clinic 
Chatham, IL 
 Full-time:  35-40 hours/week, NO weekends/on-call | 7:15a-5:30p
Compensation: $16-19/hr--based on experience
 
Who we are 
Grace Veterinary Clinic, a Thrive Pet Healthcare partner, is a small 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 clients and their pets. Superior customer service as well as going above and beyond for our clients is key to our practice's success. We are in search of candidates who are interested in joining a team that is respectful, productive, and welcoming!
Thrive Pet Healthcare is united by our mission to create the future of pet well-being through medical excellence, innovative technology, and a connected community of teams and partners. We exist to nurture both pets and people through meaningful relationships and exceptional veterinary care.
 Grace Veterinary Clinic is looking for a veterinary assistant/client service representative to join the team.  This will be a hybrid role. 
 
Responsibilities include but are not limited to: 
  • Assist clients with necessary instructions, information, and invoices, dispense prescription medications per veterinarian's instructions and schedule future appointments.  
  • Stock exam room and treatment supplies.  Maintain cleanliness of work areas. 
  • Able to medicate boarding pets 
  • Assist technicians and doctors with safe restraint of pets 
  • Maintain a positive attitude in all interactions with clients, pets, and teammates.  
  • Has a flexible schedule and is available on weekends. 
  • Be willing to cross-train as a customer service representative 
 
Experience & Skill Requirements:  
  • Experience in a veterinary medical setting  
  • Team player 
  • Excellent customer service skills 
  • Ability to multitask  
  • Self-starter that works well with a team 
  • Possesses superior customer service skills 
 
Benefits – our care in action 
We provide benefits spread comprehensively across your mental, physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing designed to meet your needs as a unique individual. Some key benefits for full-time employees include: 
  • Compensation- $16-19/hr--based on experience
  • ​​​​​​Paid time off including 8-weeks of full-pay parental leave, bereavement to grieve both humans and pets, and time off for new pet adoptions
  •  Top quality medical, dental, and vision insurance plus health savings account and flexible spending account ​​​​​​​ 
  •  Pet perks including free exams, discounts on products and services, and more at all Thrive Pet Healthcare locations
  •  Generously subsidized backup and ongoing care support for children, adults, and pets
  •  Mental health benefits including coaching and therapy sessions
  •  401k with employer contribution and no waiting period for enrollment
  •  Continuing education and development support through our library of free CE courses and paid time off to complete 
 
Thrive Pet Healthcare is one of the first veterinary services offering a comprehensive continuum of care for pets’ primary, specialty, and acute needs. Through a nationwide community of over 360 veterinary providers, and an industry-leading membership program, Thrive Pet Healthcare provides personalized, accessible care through every stage of a pet’s life and health. Founded by veterinarians, the organization provides industry-first benefits for practice staff while elevating privately held veterinary hospitals with innovative service and technology solutions. By focusing on the needs of care providers and professional collaboration, Thrive Pet Healthcare is supporting the well-being of the industry and raising the national bar for veterinary excellence.