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Animal Lab Assistant Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Assistant II, CVH

Portland, OR · On-site

$21.63 - $23.09/hr

About Oregon Humane Founded in 1868, Oregon Humane is the Northwest's oldest and largest animal ... Prepare and send lab and blood samples for external analysis. * Perform radiological services.

Veterinary Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

We're passionate about strengthening the human-animal bond through outstanding patient care ... Free/discounted lab work for all employee pets * Pet discounts on services and products * Pet food ...

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Animal Lab Assistant information

See Oregon salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do animal lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal lab assistant in Oregon is $21.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $24.38 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.

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Oregon? For Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Animal Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Animal Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Lab Assistant job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,526 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
Research Assistant

$20.50 - $28/hr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview

The Department of Pediatrics is recruiting for a Research Assistant in the Pape Research Institute.

The institute is dedicated to building a state-of-the-art research facility with a focus on studying numerous childhood diseases, such as diabetes, neurological disorders, hemophilia, pediatric cancer and metabolic disorders.

Function/Duties of Position

Our lab focuses on regulation of metabolic pathways in glial and vascular cell types, and how they support neuronal and axonal functioning during brain development, and how they are affected in pathological conditions, with the goal of identifying therapeutic strategies to promote repair process. We use multi -disciplinary approaches to study the biology of glia, integrating molecular and cell signaling, biochemistry, multiplex RNA labelling, immunohistochemistry, tissue imaging, proteomics and transgenic animal models (Exposure to live animals (mice)).

Required Qualifications
  • Associate's AND 3 years of relevant experience OR 4 years of relevant experience OR Equivalent combination of training and experience.
  • Basic molecular and cellular biology methods (DNA, RNA isolation, tissue culture).
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree.
  • 1-3 years
  • Recent graduates with work experience in a research setting. 
  • Experience with mouse handling is highly desirable.
Additional Details

Apply here online. Upload cover letter and resume.  Please be sure to include months and years (MM/YYYY format) to the resume for jobs/work experience.

*OHSU Employees be sure to apply using your OHSU email.*

Why apply to OHSU?We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: OTHER

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887