1

Animal Lab Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Animal Lab Care Technician

Auburn, AL

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS), Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician ... Lab animal experience is desired. Contract Type Continuing Why Work at Auburn? * Life-Changing ...

Position Details Position Information Recruitment/Posting Title Lab Assistant Job Category Staff ... Perform animal colony maintenance related duties as assigned. FLSA Nonexempt Grade 132 Salary ...

Position Details Position Information Recruitment/Posting Title Lab Assistant Job Category Staff ... Perform animal colony maintenance related duties as assigned. FLSA Nonexempt Grade 132 Salary ...

Details Open Date 04/08/2026 Requisition Number PRN16941N Job Title Lab Assistant Working Title Lab ... OSHA training and certification in animal care and use or the willingness to complete the ...

Announcement Details Open Date 04/08/2026 Requisition Number PRN16941N Job Title Lab Assistant ... OSHA training and certification in animal care and use or the willingness to complete the ...

Details Open Date 04/08/2026 Requisition Number PRN16941N Job Title Lab Assistant Working Title Lab ... OSHA training and certification in animal care and use or the willingness to complete the ...

Details Open Date 04/08/2026 Requisition Number PRN16941N Job Title Lab Assistant Working Title Lab ... OSHA training and certification in animal care and use or the willingness to complete the ...

Details Open Date 04/08/2026 Requisition Number PRN16941N Job Title Lab Assistant Working Title Lab ... OSHA training and certification in animal care and use or the willingness to complete the ...

Assisting with the preparation of lab specimens for Fall semester * Setting up gross anatomy lab ... Precision animal skeleton reconstruction through plastination and other techniques * Collaborating ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Animal Lab Assistant information

See salary details

$10

$20

$29

How much do animal lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal lab assistant in the United States is $20.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Animal Lab Assistants?

Animal Lab Assistants are professionals who support scientific research by caring for laboratory animals and maintaining their living environments. They are responsible for feeding, cleaning, monitoring animal health, and assisting researchers with experiments. Their work ensures that animals are treated ethically and that experiments are conducted in a safe, controlled environment. Animal Lab Assistants may also help with maintaining records and administering medications as directed by veterinarians or researchers.

Can you be a vet assistant with no experience?

Animal lab assistant roles often require some related experience or training, but entry-level positions may be available for those without prior experience. Basic knowledge of animal care, safety procedures, and the ability to follow instructions are important, and on-the-job training is typically provided. Certifications in animal handling or safety can improve chances of employment.

What are some common challenges faced by Animal Lab Assistants, and how can they be managed?

Animal Lab Assistants often face challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to protocols, handling animals with care under potentially stressful conditions, and managing time efficiently between various tasks like feeding, cleaning, and record-keeping. To manage these challenges, it's helpful to develop strong organizational skills, stay up to date on animal care guidelines, and communicate effectively with research staff and veterinarians. Regular training and working closely within the team can also help ensure both animal welfare and research integrity are maintained.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Lab Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of animal care, handling procedures, and basic laboratory techniques, often supported by a relevant certification or associate degree in animal science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data recording systems, and compliance regulations such as IACUC protocols is typically expected. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work collaboratively are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the well-being of laboratory animals, the accuracy of research data, and adherence to ethical and safety standards.

How to become an animal lab technician?

To become an animal lab technician, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, followed by completing a relevant postsecondary program such as a certificate or associate degree in laboratory technology, biology, or a related field. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions and obtaining certifications like the Laboratory Animal Technician (LAT) credential can improve job prospects. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory procedures, and the ability to handle animals ethically are essential skills for this role.

What is the difference between Animal Lab Assistant vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAnimal Lab AssistantVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate's degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentResearch laboratories, animal care facilitiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, pharmaceutical companiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Animal Lab Assistants primarily support research labs and animal care in laboratory settings, often with minimal formal credentials. Veterinary Technicians work in veterinary clinics or hospitals, requiring specialized education and certification. While both roles involve animal care, Veterinary Technicians typically have more advanced training and perform clinical procedures, whereas Animal Lab Assistants focus on supporting research activities.

What is the highest paid lab technician?

The highest paid lab technicians are often those working in specialized fields such as clinical, industrial, or research laboratories, with salaries increasing with experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand industries. In some cases, senior or managerial lab technicians can earn over $70,000 annually, especially in biotech or pharmaceutical sectors. Animal lab assistants typically earn less, with salaries varying based on location and level of expertise.

What is an assistant laboratory animal technician?

An assistant laboratory animal technician supports the care and management of laboratory animals, such as rodents or primates, in research settings. They perform tasks like feeding, cleaning, monitoring health, and maintaining records, often working under the supervision of a veterinarian or senior technician. Basic knowledge of animal handling and adherence to safety and ethical standards are essential for this role.
More about Animal Lab Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Animal Lab Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Animal Lab Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Animal Lab Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Lab Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Animal Lab Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 40% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,113 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Animal Lab Care Technician

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Auburn University rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

469th of 539 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Overview
The Vice President for Research and Economic Development is hiring for an Animal Lab Care Technician. This position ensures full compliance with all requirements related to the daily care of multiple animal species and the proper operation of animal housing facilities. This includes maintaining appropriate supplies and conditions to support animal care, research, and teaching activities.
This position oversees the daily care and welfare of a variety of laboratory animal species across multiple facilities, ensuring their health and well-being through routine monitoring, medication administration, clean and safe housing, and assistance with veterinary procedures. Success in this role requires strict adherence to established protocols and effective communication with staff and veterinarians to maintain high standards of animal care and regulatory compliance.
Responsibilities
  • Animal Feeding and Hydration: Ensures all animals are provided with appropriate food and fresh water according to their dietary needs.
  • Health Monitoring: Regularly observes animals for signs of illness, injury, or distress and reports any concerns to the veterinary staff.
  • Record Keeping: Maintains accurate records of animal health, treatments, and daily care activities.
  • Biosecurity: Follows all biosecurity and chemical safety requirements for animal care.
  • Sanitation: Cleans and disinfects animal enclosures, cages, and equipment to maintain a hygienic environment. This may include upkeep and maintenance of animal housing areas through sweeping, mopping, and sanitization of walls, floors, tables, and equipment.
  • Compliance: Ensures adherence to all regulatory guidelines and protocols related to animal care, laboratory procedures, and biosecurity protocols to include wearing correct personal protective equipment (PPE), stocking of PPE, and maintaining footbaths.
  • Support Areas: Performs various duties in animal support areas, including laundry, cleaning and sterilizing equipment, and loading and unloading supply racks.

Qualifications
Level I:
  • High school diploma or equivalent and 0 years of experience in animal care and husbandry practices.

Level II:
  • High school diploma or equivalent and 2 years of experience in animal care and husbandry practices
    • American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS), Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT), Laboratory Animal Technician (LAT), or Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG) certifications may be considered in lieu of experience.

OR
  • Associate's degree or Vocational Certificate in Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, or related program

Level III:
  • High school diploma or equivalent and 4 years of experience in animal care and husbandry practices.
    • American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS), Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT), Laboratory Animal Technician (LAT), or Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG) certifications may be considered in lieu of experience.

OR
  • Associate's degree or Vocational Certificate in Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, or related program and 2 years of experience in animal care and husbandry practices.

License and Certifications:
  • Valid in state driver's license required upon hire

Desired Qualifications:
  • Lab animal experience is desired.

Contract Type
Continuing
Why Work at Auburn?
  • Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
  • Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
  • We're Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
  • Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
  • A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.
  • Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement
It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.
Posted Date
6/18/2026

What Auburn University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom