Wheaton, IL - Temporary Externship for Veterinary Students

Hours : Monday & Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Year-Round Availability Salary : $18.00 Hourly Department : Animal Services Department We are pleased to offer the current job opportunity for a Veterinary Externship in our Animal Services Department. DuPage County Animal Services (DCAS) offers a hands-on veterinary externship designed for students seeking meaningful experience in shelter medicine, surgery, and community-based animal care . As an open-admission animal shelter, DCAS provides care for a diverse population of animals, giving externs a unique opportunity to develop clinical skills while supporting animals in need. Externs work alongside experienced shelter veterinarians and a dedicated care team to provide compassionate, efficient medical care to dogs, cats, rabbits, and other small domestic species. Program Structure Flexible externship duration: 2-4 weeks Ongoing, year-round opportunities Paid externship position Combination of structured mentorship and hands-on experience Why Choose DCAS? At DuPage County Animal Services, veterinary medicine goes beyond individual patient care - it's about improving outcomes for entire populations of animals while serving the community. This externship offers a realistic and inspiring look at a career path that is both challenging and deeply rewarding. DuPage County is an Equal Opportunity Employer This position is eligible for Paid Leave hours at a proportional rate based on the number of hours regularly scheduled to work.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Externs will be actively involved in daily medical operations, including: Assisting with and performing high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter surgeries and other surgical procedures Conducting physical exams and wellness evaluations Administering vaccinations and preventive care Diagnosing and treating common shelter-related illnesses Supporting population health and disease prevention protocols Learning best practices in shelter medicine and resource-driven care Collaborating with animal care, behavior, and adoption teams to promote positive outcomes Assisting with behavior evaluations of dogs and cats What You'll Gain Valuable hands-on surgical experience in a high-volume setting Exposure to a wide range of medical conditions and case management approaches Experience working with animals of varied backgrounds, health statuses, and temperaments Insight into government shelter operations and public-facing veterinary services Mentorship from experienced professionals in shelter medicine The opportunity to make a direct, lifesaving impact on animals in your community

REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE

Current enrollment in an accredited veterinary program as a 4thyear veterinary student Interest in surgery, primary care, and/or shelter medicine Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment Commitment to compassionate, humane animal care A pre-employment background check is required. #J-18808-Ljbffr DuPage County