Veterinary Assistant

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

Job summary

Join a compassionate team dedicated to providing high-quality veterinary care in a calm environment. As a Veterinary Assistant, you'll play a vital role in ensuring low-stress experiences for pets and their families. Your responsibilities will include assisting with exams, administering treatments, and maintaining patient records. With a focus on teamwork and client education, this position offers a supportive atmosphere where you can thrive. Enjoy competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth in a leading global pet care organization.

Benefits

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off

Continuing Education Allowance

Fear Free Certification Support

401k with Employer Match

Qualifications

• Willingness to obtain Fear Free Certification within 6 months.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs and work on feet for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians with exams and procedures using Fear Free techniques.
• Communicate clearly with clients about care plans and treatments.

Skills

Anesthesia Monitoring

Client Education

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Low-Stress Handling Techniques

Education

Fear Free Certification

Prior Experience in Veterinary Setting

Job description

At Caton Crossing Animal Hospital, 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, 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:

1. Assist veterinarians with exams, procedures, and surgeries using low-stress, Fear Free handling techniques
2. Perform venipuncture, catheter placement, anesthesia monitoring, radiographs, and dental cleanings
3. Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments with attention to comfort and safety
4. Communicate clearly and empathetically with clients about care plans and home instructions
5. Accurately maintain patient records and treatment logs
6. Support the cleanliness, organization, and Fear Free environment of the hospital
7. Contribute to a calm, positive team culture that prioritizes patient well-being

Qualifications:

1. Fear Free Certification (or willingness to obtain within first 6 months)
2. Prior experience in a clinical veterinary setting preferred
3. Skilled in anesthesia monitoring, restraint, diagnostics, and client education
4. Strong communication and organizational skills
5. Ability to lift 50 lbs and work on your feet for extended periods
6. Genuine passion for improving the veterinary experience for pets and their families

What We Offer:

1. Competitive hourly wage: $16–$20/hour, depending on experience
2. Medical, dental, and vision insurance for full-time
3. Paid time off and paid holidays for full-time
4. Continuing education allowance and Fear Free certification support
5. 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.