Associate Veterinarian
US$135,000 – US$165,000 / yr base salary
Posted 3 Sep 2026
Advertised as “Veterinarian Opportunity Near Starved Rock – Adventure + Work-Life Balance (Relocation Assistance Available)”
BranchFactor Summary
The original posting with the fluff stripped out
- Management level
- Individual contributor
- Contract
- Full-time
| Base salary | US$135,000 – US$165,000 / yr |
|---|
Associate Veterinarian
Chessie Lane Animal Hospital
Location: Ottawa, Illinois
About the Opportunity
Looking 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, IL
Ottawa 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 Team
Chessie 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 Apply
We’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