Veterinary Assistant

Location:  3235 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

VCA Ark Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time Veterinary Assistant!

VCA Ark Animal Hospital is a well-established, full-service small animal hospital in Chicago, IL, committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality veterinary care and an excellent client experience. Our team supports pets and their families through every life stage, providing preventive care, dentistry, diagnostics, and surgery in a collaborative, supportive environment.

As a Veterinary Assistant at VCA Ark, you’ll play a vital role in creating a smooth, low-stress experience for patients and clients alike.

Below are some of the many benefits of joining the VCA team! 

• Advancement and leadership opportunities 

• Internal CE and development opportunities 

• Tuition assistance including Veterinary Technology Associates, Bachelors completion and more 

• Medical, dental & vision insurance, a variety of additional coverage options 

• Free mental health care through Lyra Health (up to 12 sessions a year) 

• Access to free counseling through Cigna Life Assistance program 

• Access to Headspace app 

• Fully employer-paid life, long-term and short-term disability insurance 

• Paid vacation, paid sick time, holiday pay 

• Paid parental leave 

• Fertility coverage, gender affirmation services 

• Generous hospital discounts for your pets, a variety of other discounts including cellular service, apparel, computer equipment, etc. 

• 401(k) retirement plan with company match 

• Referral bonus opportunities 

• Practice management software with digital innovations for streamlined practice flow and client communication 

• Opportunities to give back through VCA Charities and community partnerships 

Schedule: Full- time opportunity. 4 x 10 hour shifts with rotating Saturdays. 

Compensation:  The starting range is $18 -21 /hr and is determined by skill set and years of experience in the field.  

Qualifications: 

• Previous experience in a veterinary setting 

• A passion for animals and a desire to learn and grow in the veterinary field 

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills 

• Comfortable handling dogs and cats of all sizes and temperaments 

• High school diploma or equivalent required 

What You'll Do (Day-to-Day Responsibilities): 

• Assist veterinarians and technicians with exams and procedures 

• Take patient histories and perform TPRs (temperature, pulse, respiration) 

• Restrain animals safely and compassionately 

• Prepare and clean exam rooms 

• Assist with radiographs, lab sample collection, and basic in-house diagnostics 

• Maintain accurate medical records and support charting 

• Provide client education and ensure excellent service during visits 

• Support surgery prep and recovery as needed 

• Help maintain a clean, stocked, and organized hospital environment