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Animal Lab Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Assistant

Dixon, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $23/hr

... side lab samples, explains animal status to owners. * Cleans kennels and equipment and prepares ... Assistant at our clinic have the opportunity to work with canine, feline patients & occasional ...

RESEARCH ASSISTANT II - Jin Lab

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$20.50 - $28.25/hr

The Research Assistant II will support studies using genomic tools to investigate tissue ... Follow institutional biosafety, animal research, and laboratory compliance policies, including ...

New

Completing lab work as needed * Performing radiology with an understanding of appropriate fields ... Acting as a Modern Animal brand ambassador, including implementing local marketing efforts to grow ...

RESEARCH ASSISTANT II - Jin Lab

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$20.50 - $28.25/hr

The Research Assistant II will support studies using genomic tools to investigate tissue ... Follow institutional biosafety, animal research, and laboratory compliance policies, including ...

New

Relief Veterinary Assistant

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$220 - $294.25/hr

Modern Animal is on a mission to better the lives of animals by building a place that's better for ... Perform lab work and radiology, ensuring quality results * Pharmacology Knowledge: Handle ...

Showing results 41-60

Animal Lab Assistant information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do animal lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal lab assistant in California is $19.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animal lab assistant?

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.

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.

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 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 cities in California are hiring for Animal Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Animal Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Animal Lab Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,562 per year, or $20 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

Aggie Animal Clinic

Dixon, CA โ€ข On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Looking for an experienced veterinary assistant to join our small, but busy, clinic in the heart of downtown Dixon, Ca.

Must submit cover letter.

Must have a minimum of 1 year IN-CLINIC Veterinary Experience.

Tasks include:

  • Costumer service

  • Restraint

  • Drawing up vaccines or injectable medication

  • Vaccinations, nail trims, expressing anal glands, heartworm testing, suture removal, etc.

  • Takes vital signs, SQ treatments, SQ injections, IM injections, IV injections, placing IV catheters.

  • Maintains records: Entering medical notes, entering charges, updating puppy and kitten packages, requesting out-side lab samples, explains animal status to owners.

  • Cleans kennels and equipment and prepares surgery table/instruments

  • Front desk experience i.e. answering phone calls, scheduling appointments, helping front staff check out appointments.

  • Anesthetic monitoring & Surgical assisting

  • Venipuncture, collecting samples & in-house lab sample processing.

Assistant at our clinic have the opportunity to work with canine, feline patients & occasional pocket pets. We require at least a year of veterinary experience and to have a flexible schedule, be available to work opening shift (start 7am) or closing shift (end 7pm) Monday-Friday; Saturdays (7am/8am-4pm). Monday-Friday shifts are 8 hours with a 1 hour lunch and 2 10min. breaks. Closed on major holidays (Memorial day, 4th of July, Labor day, Thanksgiving day, Christmas day and New Years day).

We offer benefits, CE classes and have great employee discounts.

Veterinarian Assistant Qualifications / Skills:

  • Knowledge of animal behavior

  • Animal husbandry

  • Love of animals

  • Must be able to lift up to 35lbs.

  • Must be able to squat, kneel, and crouch on floor with no difficulty.

  • Documentation skills

  • Analyzing information

  • Clinical skills

  • Use of medical technologies

  • Attention to detail

  • Patience

  • Verbal communication

  • Technical understanding

Benefits:

  • 401(k) matching

  • Dental insurance

  • Employee discount

  • Flexible schedule

  • Health insurance

  • Retirement plan

  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shifts (5 hour shifts available for Part-time)

  • Day shift

  • Evening shift

  • Holidays

  • Weekend availability

  • Part-time unavailable at this time