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Animal Lab Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Animal Lab Assistant information

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How much do animal lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal lab assistant in Michigan is $17.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 Michigan are hiring for Animal Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Animal Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Animal Tech II, Division of Laboratory Animal Resources

Lab Animal Tech II, Division of Laboratory Animal Resources

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

$20.59/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

238th of 529 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Lab Animal Tech II, Division of Laboratory Animal Resources
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Lab Animal Tech II, Division of Laboratory Animal Resources at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Position Purpose:
Perform a variety of simple routine tasks related to the care, feeding, and maintenance of various laboratory animal species within animal care facilities at the University.
Essential Functions:
Perform routine animal husbandry activities in accordance with the National Institute of Health (NIH), the American Association for Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC), the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and established research protocols. Provide and maintain housing and food for all laboratory animal species. Observe, monitor, and report health status of laboratory animals.
Clean and disinfect animal cages, pens and heavy floor grates via water hosing method or automatic machine cagewashing device. Mix chemical cleansing agents and solutions (e.g. bleach, acid cleaner and tri-quat) to sanitize and disinfect bottles, pans, pails, cages, pens and entire work area. Sweep and mop floors using push broom, dry mop or wet-n-dry vacuum. Remove soiled bedding and feces into refuse cans to be incinerated or disposed of in dumpster. Place fresh bedding materials and animal enrichment materials in animal cages, pens and pans.
Receive animal feed, bedding, and supplies. Transport heavy animal feed and bedding bags using moving equipment to appropriate locations. Assist in animal identification procedures; maintain applicable charts and records; catch and restrain, light to heavy animal species ranging in weight from 70g-100 lbs. Store feed, bedding, and supplies. May assist in the transportation of animals and supplies via motor vehicle. Transport refuse and empty into large outdoor dumpsters.
Assist in the care of sick animals. May at times administer prescribed medications and treatments; collect laboratory samples as requested by principal investigator, clinical veterinarian or research personnel which requires utilizing a variety of medical apparatus and instruments, e.g. bandages, swabs, etc.
Attend departmental staff meetings. Participate in continuing education and employee training programs. May require rotation through several on-campus and off-campus research facilities.
Perform related work as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education:
Graduation from or presently enrolled in an accredited Veterinary Technician training program, LAT level AALAS certification, or Bachelor's degree in a related science field is a required minimum qualification.
Experience:
Reasonable experience and knowledge in the care, feeding, and handling of various laboratory animal species is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Possession and maintenance of a valid Michigan vehicle operator's license and satisfactory driving records as determined by University policy.
Ability to transport a variety of light to heavy laboratory animal species ranging in weight from (70g-100 lbs.)
Ability to perform a variety of medical procedures and treatments utilizing specialized instruments and apparatuses, e.g. syringe, thermometer, Electrocardiogram (EKG), swab, bandage, etc. is preferred.
Ability to communicate effectively with others.
Must obtain security clearance.
Knowledge of National Institute of Health (NIH), the American Association for Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) standards and guidelines is preferred.
School/College/Division:
H69 - Research Support
Primary Department:
H6901 - Laboratory Animal Resources
Employment Type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full Time
  • Job category: Staff/Administrative
Funding/Salary information:
  • Compensation type: Hourly Wage
  • Hourly rate: $20.59
Working Conditions:
This position mustbe filled pursuant to the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement, andas such may be filled by a qualified bargaining unit member, should one apply.
Maintain safeworking conditions at all times by using equipment and supplies followingappropriate safety procedures; protect against controllable hazards byfollowing applicable policies, including wearing safety masks, goggles, gloves,boots and other protective clothing. Complete work assignments represented byfrequent handling and transporting of light to heavy animal species and otherequipment and supplies.
On your feet most ofthe day.
Some exposure toanimal noise and odor.
Job Openings:
  • Number of openings: 1
  • Reposted position: No
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

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