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Animal Care Associate Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Research Technician

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Two years of animal care related experience * Basic computer and data-entry skills * Basic ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree What We Want You To Know: * Purdue will not sponsor employment ...

... care to our community. We are excited to expand our services to include large animal medicine and are looking for a dedicated Mixed Animal Veterinarian to join us in this new chapter. This is a ...

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a scientific field preferred * Animal care experience strongly preferred * Certification as an Animal Care Technician may be required for internal promotion Skills ...

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a scientific field preferred * Animal care experience strongly preferred * Certification as an Animal Care Technician may be required for internal promotion Skills ...

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a scientific field preferred * Animal care experience strongly preferred * Certification as an Animal Care Technician may be required for internal promotion Skills ...

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Animal Care Associate information

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an animal care associate?

To thrive as an Animal Care Associate, you need a fundamental understanding of animal behavior, basic veterinary care, and safe handling techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with animal management software, cleaning and feeding equipment, and sometimes certifications in animal first aid are typically required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help foster positive animal interactions and effective teamwork. These competencies ensure the health, safety, and well-being of animals while maintaining smooth daily operations.

What is the difference between Animal Care Associate vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAnimal Care AssociateVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, pet stores, kennelsVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal care facilities, shelters, pet storesVeterinary practices, animal hospitals
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Animal Care Associates typically perform basic animal handling, feeding, and cleaning duties in shelters or pet stores, often with minimal formal education. Veterinary Technicians have more advanced responsibilities, including assisting veterinarians with medical procedures, requiring specialized training and certification. Both roles involve working closely with animals, but Veterinary Technicians usually work in clinical settings with more technical tasks.

What is an animal care associate?

Animal Care Associates are professionals responsible for the daily care and well-being of animals in various settings, such as animal shelters, veterinary clinics, zoos, or research facilities. Their duties typically include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring health and behavior, and assisting with basic medical care under supervision. They play a crucial role in ensuring that animals are comfortable, healthy, and safe. Good communication, attention to detail, and a genuine concern for animals are essential qualities for this role.

What challenges do animal care associates face, and how can they prepare for them?

Animal Care Associates often encounter challenges such as handling animals with varying temperaments, managing physically demanding tasks, and adhering to strict hygiene protocols. To prepare, it's beneficial to build strong observation skills, develop patience, and be comfortable working in fast-paced environments. Learning proper animal restraint techniques and maintaining clear communication with veterinarians and other team members can also make daily responsibilities more manageable and rewarding.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Care jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Animal Care jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Care Associate jobs in Indiana? For Animal Care Associate jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Care Associate jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Care Associate jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Animal Care Associate jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Animal Care Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Care Associate job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Research Technician

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

310th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Research Technician
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Summary
The Research Technician, Associate is an entry-level position that builds skills in providing husbandry and care to a variety of laboratory anmals listed on approved protocols including but not limited to rodents, rabbits, sheep, swing, horses, cows, and poultry in conventional, barrier, and barn housing. This position will learn and perform husbandry and health checks for all species on campus as well as any new species that arrive for future studies. Change cages/clean stalls, use specialized equipment (including rack washer, bulk autoclave, steam gun, skid steer). Work with animals exposed to biological/chemical/radiation hazards, and prepare animal caging components for use in the animal facilities. Perform other cleaning and maintenance duties as necessary. Occasional euthanasia of rodents. This is a full-time staff position, not a student position.
What We're Looking For:
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • Two years of animal care related experience
  • Basic computer and data-entry skills
  • Basic knowledge of animal care
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to work in a team environment as well as independently
  • Exhibit professional behavior in speaking with all staff (Purdue and non-Purdue interacetions)
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to work overtime and on weekend/holidays
  • Abiity to pull/push large heavy equipment; push/pull equipment up and down ramps;repetitive lifting/turning/bending/reaching (high and stretching low)
  • Ability to be on feet and moving all day
  • Ability to enter stalls or caging with large animals (cow/horse/sheep/pig) and work in the stall with the animals present
  • Exhibit professional behavior in speaking with all staff (Purdue and non-Purdue interactions)

What Is Helpful:
Associate's or Bachelor's degree
What We Want You To Know:
  • Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
  • A background check is required for employment in this position
  • FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible for overtime)
  • Retirement Eligibility: Non-Exempt Defined Contribution Plan
  • Purdue University is an EO/EA University.

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