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Veterinary Services

Veterinarian Opportunity Near Starved Rock – Adventure + Work-Life Balance (Relocation Assistance Available)

Ottawa, ILOnsiteFull Time$135,000–$165,000 /yrPosted 2 months ago

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Required skills

  • DVM/VMD
  • AVMA-accredited program
  • Illinois veterinary license
  • clinical skills
  • surgical skills
  • team player
  • continued learning
  • compassionate approach

Nice to have

  • relocation assistance

Role summary

Chessie Lane Animal Hospital in Ottawa, IL is seeking a full-time Associate Veterinarian to join their established team. The role involves performing small animal wellness exams, sick visits, soft tissue surgery, and dentistry, utilizing digital imaging and in-house diagnostics. Key requirements include a DVM/VMD degree, Illinois veterinary license, strong clinical and surgical skills, and a collaborative, compassionate approach. The position offers a competitive base salary ($135,000–$165,000), bonus opportunities, production pay, and a comprehensive benefits package, emphasizing work-life balance in a supportive, low-drama environment.

Associate Veterinarian Chessie Lane Animal HospitalLocation: Ottawa, Illinois

About the OpportunityLooking for a veterinary role that comes with a genuinely great lifestyle? Chessie Lane Animal Hospital in Ottawa, IL is looking for a full-time Associate Veterinarian to join our friendly, long‑standing team.

We've proudly served the Ottawa community for nearly 30 years, and our commitment to compassionate, high‑quality care earned us the 2023 Times Readers’ Choice Award for Favorite Veterinary Clinic. If you’re hoping to join a clinic where teamwork, positivity, and excellent patient care all matter equally, this may be your perfect fit.

Why You’ll Love Ottawa, ILOttawa is one of Illinois’ best-kept secrets—a historic, scenic town located at the confluence of the Illinois and Fox Rivers. Living and working here means enjoying:

  • Beautiful outdoor spaces including Starved Rock, Matthiessen, and Buffalo Rock State Parks
  • A welcoming, community‑oriented atmosphere
  • A charming downtown full of local restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques
  • Affordable living with an easygoing Midwest vibe
  • Endless opportunities for hiking, kayaking, biking, and weekend adventures

    • If you want small‑town warmth with big natural beauty, Ottawa delivers.

    About Our TeamChessie Lane is a supportive, low‑drama workplace where collaboration is valued and kindness is the norm. We work hard, we communicate openly, and we genuinely enjoy each other’s company. Our clinic is fully equipped with:

  • Digital radiography
  • In-house Idexx lab
  • Ultrasound
  • Dentistry capabilities
  • Soft tissue surgery
  • Full GP services

    • We believe in giving our doctors the support, tools, and autonomy they need to do their best work while still maintaining work‑life balance.

    What You’ll Do

  • Perform small animal wellness exams, sick visits, and diagnostic workups
  • Provide soft tissue surgery and dentistry services
  • Utilize digital imaging and in-house diagnostics
  • Maintain accurate patient records
  • Partner with and mentor support staff
  • Build strong client relationships through clear communication and compassionate care

    • What We’re Looking For

  • A DVM/VMD graduate from an AVMA-accredited program
  • Illinois veterinary license (or ability to obtain prior to start)
  • Strong clinical and surgical skills
  • A collaborative, communicative team player
  • Commitment to continued learning and professional growth
  • A compassionate approach to both pets and people

    • Compensation & Benefits

  • Compensation: $135,000–$165,000 base salary
  • Additional Earnings: Bonus opportunities + production pay
  • PTO
  • Medical, dental, vision
  • Short- & long-term disability
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid parental leave
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid licensure and professional dues
  • VIN membership
  • CE allowance + additional paid CE days
  • Uniform allowance
  • And more

    • How to ApplyWe’d love to meet you and show you why Ottawa—and Chessie Lane—might be exactly what you’re looking for.

    Send your resume to: Toby@chessielanevet.com

    Learn more: www.chessielanevet.com

    Ready to apply?
    You'll be redirected to Chessie Lane Animal Hospital's application page.

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