Veterinarian Jobs in Illinois
Veterinarian jobs in Illinois are consistently in demand, with openings concentrated in companion animal practice, livestock and agricultural medicine, and veterinary emergency care for candidates from new graduates through experienced specialists. Chicago, Peoria, and Champaign-Urbana lead hiring volume, supported by anchor employers such as Banfield Pet Hospital, VCA Animal Hospitals, and the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. The most sought-after specialties across the state include emergency and critical care, internal medicine, and large animal practice serving Illinois's significant agricultural regions. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Join us as an Emergency Veterinarian at VCA Arboretum View Animal Hospital located in Downers Grove, IL and you'll quickly discover that you're well supported by world-class medicine, technology, facilities and a talented team. You'll be empowered to do your beset work with a team you can count on. At VCA, the future of veterinary medicine is in your hands.
Questions? Please email Laurel Norman at laurel.norman@vca.com
Students and new graduates are encouraged to apply and will receive dedicated mentorship.
Why join the team
- AAHA-accredited 24-hour emergency/specialty/general practice hospital located in Downers Grove just outside of Chicago
- Specialty services include Internal Medicine, Neurology, Surgery, Emergency & Critical Care, and Oncology
- Interventional radiology suite, CT, MRI, fluoroscopy, lithotripsy, and nuclear scintigraphy
- One of two hospitals in the state performing dialysis
- Access to a network of specialists within VCA
- Attractions include two forest preserves and several parks to enjoy the outdoors
- Downers Grove offers a high quality of life with excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a variety of restaurants and retail shops
- Close to large Chicago airports
Schedule
- Full or Part Time availability
- Overnight/swing shift
Who we look for
- Dedicated experts who want to provide world-class medicine
- Collaborators who enjoy teaching others and working as a team
- Curious lifelong learners who want to grow and thrive for a dynamic and fulfilling career
- Empathetic partners who develop strong client and Associate relationships built on trust
Total Rewards
As a member of the VCA family, eligible full-time employees will be rewarded with a comprehensive package, including:
Compensation
- The annualized base for this position ranges from $125k-$200k and is negotiable based on experience and credentials.
- This position may also be eligible for other variable pay programs (production)
Health & Well-being
- Innovative Associate health and well-being department (Headspace app subscriptions, Fidelity financial wellness tool, and access to additional mental health resources)
- 401k retirement savings plan with company match
- Health/dental/vision insurance, infertility benefits, gender affirmation services
- Paid parental, vacation and sick leave
Professional Development
- Continuing Education Allowance and paid Continuing Education Days
- WOOF University – offering abundant CE for Doctors and the care team
- Opportunities to participate in a robust Clinical Studies program
Discover Additional Benefits Benefits | VCA (vcacareers.com) (open link in new window)
Learn more about the hospital here and here and the MARS Oncology Advisory Board here!
Qualifications
- A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, from an accredited university or equivalent
- Licensure in good standing to practice in (IL), or the ability to obtain
- Residency Trained or Diplomate Board Certification
- A commitment to practicing the highest standard of medicine and upholding the veterinary code of ethics
About VCA
VCA is a leader in veterinary care and is committed to taking care of the future of veterinary medicine. With a network of 1,000 animal hospitals, we impact pets, people and our communities by delivering world-class medicine with hometown care to over 4.5 million pets annually.
Trusted and empowered, our 35,000 Associates collaborate and unleash their unique power to achieve the best outcomes. With access to endless resources, we continuously learn and share knowledge to build fulfilling careers, push our profession forward and make a lasting impact on our shared future.
VCA is part of the Mars Veterinary Health family of brands, working towards A Better World for Pets™. Learn more at www.vca.com or find us on social media.
If you are a current associate, you will need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.
Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!
The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development)
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com
Join us as an Emergency Veterinarian at VCA Arboretum View Animal Hospital located in Downers Grove, IL and you'll quickly discover that you're well supported by world-class medicine, technology, facilities and a talented team. You'll be empowered to do your beset work with a team you can count on. At VCA, the future of veterinary medicine is in your hands.
Questions? Please email Laurel Norman at laurel.norman@vca.com
Students and new graduates are encouraged to apply and will receive dedicated mentorship.
Why join the team
- AAHA-accredited 24-hour emergency/specialty/general practice hospital located in Downers Grove just outside of Chicago
- Specialty services include Internal Medicine, Neurology, Surgery, Emergency & Critical Care, and Oncology
- Interventional radiology suite, CT, MRI, fluoroscopy, lithotripsy, and nuclear scintigraphy
- One of two hospitals in the state performing dialysis
- Access to a network of specialists within VCA
- Attractions include two forest preserves and several parks to enjoy the outdoors
- Downers Grove offers a high quality of life with excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a variety of restaurants and retail shops
- Close to large Chicago airports
Schedule
- Full or Part Time availability
- Overnight/swing shift
Who we look for
- Dedicated experts who want to provide world-class medicine
- Collaborators who enjoy teaching others and working as a team
- Curious lifelong learners who want to grow and thrive for a dynamic and fulfilling career
- Empathetic partners who develop strong client and Associate relationships built on trust
Total Rewards
As a member of the VCA family, eligible full-time employees will be rewarded with a comprehensive package, including:
Compensation
- The annualized base for this position ranges from $125k-$200k and is negotiable based on experience and credentials.
- This position may also be eligible for other variable pay programs (production)
Health & Well-being
- Innovative Associate health and well-being department (Headspace app subscriptions, Fidelity financial wellness tool, and access to additional mental health resources)
- 401k retirement savings plan with company match
- Health/dental/vision insurance, infertility benefits, gender affirmation services
- Paid parental, vacation and sick leave
Professional Development
- Continuing Education Allowance and paid Continuing Education Days
- WOOF University – offering abundant CE for Doctors and the care team
- Opportunities to participate in a robust Clinical Studies program
Discover Additional Benefits Benefits | VCA (vcacareers.com) (open link in new window)
Learn more about the hospital here and here and the MARS Oncology Advisory Board here!
Qualifications
- A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, from an accredited university or equivalent
- Licensure in good standing to practice in (IL), or the ability to obtain
- Residency Trained or Diplomate Board Certification
- A commitment to practicing the highest standard of medicine and upholding the veterinary code of ethics
About VCA
VCA is a leader in veterinary care and is committed to taking care of the future of veterinary medicine. With a network of 1,000 animal hospitals, we impact pets, people and our communities by delivering world-class medicine with hometown care to over 4.5 million pets annually.
Trusted and empowered, our 35,000 Associates collaborate and unleash their unique power to achieve the best outcomes. With access to endless resources, we continuously learn and share knowledge to build fulfilling careers, push our profession forward and make a lasting impact on our shared future.
VCA is part of the Mars Veterinary Health family of brands, working towards A Better World for Pets™. Learn more at www.vca.com or find us on social media.
If you are a current associate, you will need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.
Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!
The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development)
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com
See All 124+ Veterinarian Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Veterinarian JobsVeterinarian Jobs by City in Illinois
Where Illinois roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Veterinarian Job Market in Illinois
A snapshot from current Illinois openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice22
- Thrive Pet Healthcare14
- Heartstrings Pet Hospice, In-Home Euthanasia & Aftercare12
- Vetcor11
- DESORT STAFFING9
Top Industries Hiring
- Animal Care & Pet Services
What Illinois Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in veterinarian jobs across Illinois.
- Active Illinois veterinarian license issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from an AVMA-accredited veterinary college
- Valid Drug Enforcement Administration registration for controlled substance prescribing
- Experience in companion animal, large animal, or emergency clinical settings
- Strong diagnostic skills including radiography, ultrasound, and in-house laboratory interpretation
- Ability to communicate effectively with pet owners and agricultural clients in Illinois
Veterinarian Jobs in Illinois: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a veterinarian in Illinois?
To become a veterinarian in Illinois, you must earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from an accredited institution and then obtain licensure through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation by passing the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination. Illinois also requires applicants to pass the Illinois Veterinary Law Examination covering state-specific regulations. Once licensed, new graduates often begin in associate veterinarian roles at private practices, corporate clinics, or with the University of Illinois veterinary system.
How much do veterinarians make in Illinois?
Veterinarians in Illinois earn a median of about $133,580 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $74,840 for the lowest 10% to over $280,380 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire veterinarians in Illinois?
Employers hiring veterinarians in Illinois right now include Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice, Thrive Pet Healthcare, and Heartstrings Pet Hospice, In-Home Euthanasia & Aftercare, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. Illinois's mix of large corporate veterinary groups, independent private practices, and the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital creates a broad hiring base well beyond Chicago.
Which Illinois cities have the most veterinarian jobs?
Chicago, Niles, and South Barrington have the most veterinarian openings in Illinois. Chicago and its suburbs drive the highest volume through dense companion animal practice and corporate clinic networks, while Champaign-Urbana benefits from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, and Peoria reflects demand tied to both suburban pet owners and surrounding agricultural communities.
Are there remote veterinarian jobs in Illinois?
Yes, but they're rare. Veterinary medicine is a hands-on clinical profession, and the vast majority of roles require on-site patient care. About 67% of veterinarian openings tied to Illinois are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, and those positions are typically concentrated in veterinary telehealth consultation, medical writing, or veterinary public health rather than direct clinical practice.
How can I get hired as a veterinarian in Illinois with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying to rotating internship or externship programs before or immediately after graduation. The University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Urbana offers structured internships in small animal medicine, surgery, and emergency care for new graduates. Corporate groups such as VCA and Banfield also offer new-graduate mentorship programs at their Illinois locations. Applying as an associate veterinarian at a general practice, emphasizing externship hours and a clean Illinois license, is the most common door-opener for candidates without independent caseload experience.
Where can I find and apply to veterinarian jobs in Illinois?
You can find and apply to veterinarian jobs in Illinois on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers hiring across the state right now. Find roles that fit your experience and specialty and apply directly to the ones that match.
See All 124+ Veterinarian Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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