Veterinary Assistant

National Veterinary Associates; Plainfield (IL); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading veterinary hospital in Plainfield is seeking a compassionate Veterinary Assistant dedicated to low-stress, Fear Free patient care. This role involves assisting veterinarians with various clinical tasks, fostering a supportive team environment focused on animal wellness and effective client communication.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance for full-time

Paid time off and paid holidays for full-time

Continuing education allowance and certification support

Qualifications

• Compassionate and skilled Veterinary Assistant.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians with exams, procedures, and surgeries.
• Perform venipuncture, catheter placement, and anesthesia monitoring.
• Communicate care plans clearly with clients.

Skills

Fear Free handling techniques

Client education

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

Fear Free Certification (or willingness to obtain)

Prior experience in clinical veterinary setting

Job description

At Caton Crossing Animal Hospiral, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate veterinary care in a calm, respectful environment—for both our patients and their people. We are a Fear Free Certified Team and our team is committed to minimizing fear, anxiety, and stress in every patient interaction.

Position Summary:
We are seeking a compassionate, skilled Veterinary Assistant who shares our commitment to low-stress, Fear Free patient care. The ideal candidate is enthusiastic about animal wellness, enjoys client education, and values teamwork in a clinical setting.

Key Responsibilities:

Assist veterinarians with exams, procedures, and surgeries using low-stress, Fear Free handling techniques

Perform venipuncture, catheter placement, anesthesia monitoring, radiographs, and dental cleanings

Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments with attention to comfort and safety

Communicate clearly and empathetically with clients about care plans and home instructions

Accurately maintain patient records and treatment logs

Support the cleanliness, organization, and Fear Free environment of the hospital

Contribute to a calm, positive team culture that prioritizes patient well-being

Qualifications:

Fear Free Certification (or willingness to obtain within first 6 months)

Prior experience in clinical veterinary setting preferred

Skilled in anesthesia monitoring, restraint, diagnostics, and client education

Strong communication and organizational skills

Ability to lift 50 lbs and work on your feet for extended periods

Genuine passion for improving the veterinary experience for pets and their families

What We Offer:

Competitive hourly wage: $16–$20/hour, depending on experience

Medical, dental, and vision insurance for full-time

Paid time off and paid holidays for full-time

Continuing education allowance and Fear Free certification support

A supportive, collaborative team that values growth and work-life balance

National Veterinary Associates is a leading global pet care organization united in the love of animals and the people who love them.

At NVA, we’re on a mission to improve the lives of pets and the people who love them. That starts by empowering our care teams. We nurture their growth with resources to practice medicine their way. Our network of 1,000 hospitals connects them to a community of professionals who share their passion so they can learn and grow together. Our national presence enables us to deliver technology and innovations that simplify work and expand care for all. At NVA, we're committed to your professional growth. We support your entire career journey, offering opportunities ranging from mentorship to ownership.

NVA offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees. The team can provide more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location during the process. For positions based in Colorado, NVA provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.

NVA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and any other state or local hiring regulations, we will consider for employment any qualified applicant, including those with arrest and conviction records, in a manner consistent with the applicable regulation.