1

Veterinary Helper Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Administers store owned pet medications as directed by veterinarian * Promotes special events such ... Whether it's helping a customer choose their first fish, celebrating a pet's birthday, or seeing ...

Retail Sales Associate Part Time

Springfield, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $17/hr

Administers store owned pet medications as directed by veterinarian * Promotes special events such ... Whether it's helping a customer choose their first fish, celebrating a pet's birthday, or seeing ...

Administers store owned pet medications as directed by veterinarian * Promotes special events such ... Whether it's helping a customer choose their first fish, celebrating a pet's birthday, or seeing ...

Retail Sales Associate Full Time

Springfield, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $17/hr

Administers store owned pet medications as directed by veterinarian * Promotes special events such ... Whether it's helping a customer choose their first fish, celebrating a pet's birthday, or seeing ...

Administers store owned pet medications as directed by veterinarian * Promotes special events such ... Whether it's helping a customer choose their first fish, celebrating a pet's birthday, or seeing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Veterinary Helper information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$10

$17

$21

How much do veterinary helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary helper in Springfield, IL is $17.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are veterinary helpers?

Veterinary helpers, also known as veterinary assistants, support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal clinics, hospitals, and shelters. They are responsible for tasks such as feeding and bathing animals, cleaning cages, sterilizing equipment, and assisting with basic animal care under supervision. Their work ensures that animals are comfortable and that medical procedures run smoothly. Veterinary helpers play a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and efficiency of veterinary facilities, allowing veterinarians to focus on diagnosing and treating animals. They may also interact with pet owners, providing information and reassurance as needed.

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

To thrive as a Veterinary Helper, you need a basic understanding of animal care, handling techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, basic lab equipment, and animal restraint tools is commonly required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong teamwork skills help you support veterinarians and reassure pet owners. These skills ensure safe, efficient animal care and contribute to a positive environment for both animals and staff.

What are some common challenges Veterinary Helpers face when assisting with animal care and clinic operations?

Veterinary Helpers often encounter challenges such as handling anxious or aggressive animals, maintaining a clean and sanitized environment, and managing multiple tasks during busy appointment times. They must be prepared for physically demanding work, including lifting animals and standing for extended periods. Additionally, Veterinary Helpers work closely with veterinarians and technicians, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to follow detailed instructions to ensure the well-being of both patients and staff.

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. Experience can be gained through volunteering or entry-level positions in veterinary clinics.

What is the difference between Veterinary Helper vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary HelperVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAnimal clinics, shelters, kennels, farmsVeterinary clinics, hospitals, specialty practices
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with animal care, cleaning, feeding, basic restraintPerform diagnostic tests, administer medications, assist during surgeries

Veterinary Helpers typically have minimal formal education and focus on basic animal care tasks, working under supervision. Veterinary Technicians have specialized training and perform more complex medical procedures, often working more independently. Both roles are essential in animal healthcare but differ in education, responsibilities, and scope of practice.

How long does it take to be a CVT?

Becoming a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) typically requires completing a 2-year associate degree in veterinary technology from an AVMA-accredited program and passing the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE). The process usually takes about 2 to 3 years, including education and gaining practical experience. Some states may have additional licensing or certification requirements for veterinary helpers or technicians.

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 or skills may lead to higher compensation.

What is a veterinarian helper called?

A veterinarian helper is commonly called a veterinary assistant or veterinary technician assistant. They support veterinarians by handling animal care, cleaning, and assisting with procedures, often working under supervision and requiring knowledge of animal handling and basic medical tasks.
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 cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Veterinary Helper jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Veterinary Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Veterinary Helper job openings in Springfield, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,889 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Retail Sales Associate Full Time

Retail Sales Associate Full Time

PetSmart

Springfield, IL • On-site

$15 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


PetSmart rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 1,086 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

Job Description
PetSmart does Anything for Pets - JOIN OUR TEAM!
Retail Sales Associate Full Time
About Life at PetSmart
At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed.
Benefits that benefit you
  • Paid Weekly
  • Health & Wellness Benefits*
  • 401k Plan with company match
  • Paid Time off for full-time associates
  • Associate discounts
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Career pathing
  • Development opportunities

Job Summary
PetSmart's Pet Associate (Retail Sales Associate) is responsible for engaging with pet parents and their pets while providing positive experiences and upholding the company's vision, mission, values, and strategy. This role also shares responsibility of store cleanliness and maintenance, and pet safety standards as well as the direct care of pets within our store.
Essential Responsibilities
Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following and may vary depending on store characteristics and needs:
  • Responsible for the pet parent experience and outcomes conducted in person, over the phone, at the sales register and online.
  • Greets pet parents and answers their questions throughout the store.
  • Prepares online orders for pick-up in store and ensures a smooth, positive, pick-up experience.
  • Responsible for the pet healthcare of store owned pets, which includes feeding, watering and cleaning all pet habitats (bird, reptile, small animal, cricket, and fish aquariums).
  • Maintains total store cleanliness standards.
  • Supports the store with weekly price changes and monthly promotional pricing.
  • Stages and sorts new product to match sales floor planners.
  • Faces, fills, and recovers products to meet sales floor standards.
  • Recommends, informs, and sells merchandise, services and live pets.
  • Administers store owned pet medications as directed by veterinarian
  • Promotes special events such as adoption weekends, Treats enrollment, charity events, etc.
  • Ensures a safe environment for our associates, pets, and pet parents.
  • Responsible for taking immediate action when a sick/injured pet is identified in the store; transport to the vet as needed.
  • Assists and works in various areas throughout the store (including services) as required. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Participates in our culture of Belonging and Recognition.
  • Follows all Company Policies and Procedures.

Qualifications
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Flexibility in schedule, able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
  • Ability to react under pressure and maintain composure.

Essential physical demands and work environment
  • Associate required to stand, walk, climb a ladder, and use hands to handle, feel, hold, write, etc. The associate frequently is required to reach with hands and arms: stoop, kneel, crouch, talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include depth perception. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Associate must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally team lift and/or move more than 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include depth perception.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the associate is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts, as well as a wet environment with an abundance of pet hair. The noise level is moderate in the work environment; however, associates may be exposed to high levels of noise at times. Exposure to live animals and their handling is common.

Do what you love
Join us for a chance to make a meaningful impact every day. Whether it's helping a customer choose their first fish, celebrating a pet's birthday, or seeing the smile on a pet parent's face after a fresh groom-you'll create moments that matter. At PetSmart, we cherish diversity and the unique perspectives of our 50,000 associates, all united by a passion for pets.
We're delighted you're interested in joining our pack and helping us in our commitment to doing Anything for Pets, and the people who love them. We're excited to hear your story and learn more about you! Apply Now!
PetSmart is an Equal Opportunity Employer
PetSmart provides an equal opportunity for all associates and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. We offer reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout our application process, upon request and as required by law.
This listing is not an indication that the position is currently open or available. We are continually looking to build a strong network of talented candidates to join our organization and are always accepting applications. Feel free to contact your local PetSmart store to check on which roles they are actively hiring for.
This job summary is intended to describe the general nature and level of work associates/leaders assigned to this job perform. It is not intended to include all duties and responsibilities. You will be provided with a copy of a job description for the actual position you are hired into. Exact rate of pay will be based on relevant experience level, training, skills or knowledge and store location. This position is paid on a per hour basis. In no instance will PetSmart pay less than the local minimum wage. This position is also eligible for benefits as described at https://benefits.petsmart.com/us/
Applicants must be over the age of 18 (except in Montana or where otherwise required by local or state law)
For applicants in our Waterloo, San Francisco, or Los Angeles locations: Pursuant to the Waterloo and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, as well as the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring, we will consider for employment, qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in a manner consistent with the law
*In accordance with the Affordable Care Act (ACA), part-time associates who average at least 30 hours per week (or 130 hours per month) during a designated measurement period may be eligible for medical benefits.
Pay Details
$15.00 - 25.25
Pay Rate Type
Hourly

What PetSmart employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


PetSmart logo

About PetSmart

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed. With 50,000+ associates nationwide, we foster a culture grounded in integrity, teamwork, and inclusion - where your voice is heard, your efforts are valued and your career can thrive. Together, we make a difference for pets, their people and each other.

Industry

Retail and legal services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US