Lead Kennel Assistant

Tender Care Animal Hospital in Morton, IL is seeking a Kennel Lead to join our dedicated team, focusing on the care and comfort of our patients while supporting the veterinary team.

About the role

The Kennel Lead oversees day-to-day kennel operations and leads a team responsible for the care of up to 60 kennels at full capacity. This role involves patient husbandry, general housekeeping, and ensuring a safe, clean environment for both patients and staff.

Responsibilities

• Provide meals, walks, and medication to boarding patients.
• Monitor patients for medical or behavioral concerns and document observations.
• Sanitize kennels, common spaces, and treatment areas; restock supplies.
• Coordinate and support the kennel team, assigning daily responsibilities and maintaining efficient workflows.
• Ensure patient care standards are consistently met and communicate concerns to the veterinary team.
• Lead and support team members in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.

Requirements

• 1+ years of experience as a veterinary kennel assistant/kennel technician (preferred) or related animal care experience (e.g., boarding, doggy daycare, FFA, or 4H).
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience (preferred).
• Genuine passion for animal care and patient wellbeing.
• Confidence working with dogs and cats of varying sizes and temperaments.
• Ability to safely handle, restrain, walk, and monitor animals under supervision.
• Strong awareness of animal behavior and willingness to learn patient safety techniques.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, delegate responsibilities, and maintain organized workflows.
• Dependability, attention to detail, and a positive, team-oriented attitude.
• Physical ability to meet the demands of a hands-on animal care role.
• Strong observational skills and willingness to communicate patient concerns.
• Interest in learning and growing within the veterinary profession.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance and disability.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• 401k with company match.
• Paid time off in accordance with site policy and applicable law.
• Personal pet discount.
• Uniform allowance.

Part-time team members may be eligible for limited benefits in accordance with company policy and state law.

Pay

$15–$17.25 per hour.

Schedule

Full-time or part-time position with flexible availability needed Monday–Sunday. Shifts include 6:30 AM–2 PM and 2 PM–9 PM.

About Tender Care Animal Hospital

Located in Morton, Illinois, Tender Care Animal Hospital is a newly renovated 9,000-square-foot facility dedicated to exceptional patient care and a supportive workplace. Our team of four experienced veterinarians provides comprehensive care, including preventive, medical, surgical, dental, boarding, grooming, and dog training services. We prioritize professional growth, offering opportunities for learning and development in a collaborative environment.