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Animal Lab Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

VetEvolve

Animal Care Center - Vet Assistant

Pearisburg, VA

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Veterinary Assistant Position Summary: The Veterinary Assistant provides essential support to the ... Administers medications, draws up vaccines, collects lab samples, and performs basic lab tests as ...

VetEvolve

Animal Care Center - Vet Assistant

Pearisburg, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Veterinary Assistant Position Summary: The Veterinary Assistant provides essential support to the ... Administers medications, draws up vaccines, collects lab samples, and performs basic lab tests as ...

Aylett Animal Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Aylett, VA · On-site

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

Aylett Animal Hospital is Hiring a Veterinary Assistant! Position Details Role: Veterinary ... Free/discounted lab work for all employee pets * Pet discounts on services and products * Pet food ...

Aylett Animal Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Aylett, VA

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

Aylett Animal Hospital is Hiring a Veterinary Assistant! Position Details Role: Veterinary ... Free/discounted lab work for all employee pets * Pet discounts on services and products * Pet food ...

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Animal Lab Assistant information

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How much do animal lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal lab assistant in Virginia is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $22.88 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.
What are popular job titles related to Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia? For Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Animal Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Animal Lab Assistant job openings:
Animal Lab Assistant jobs near you
Veterinary Assistant - Godspeed Animal Care

Veterinary Assistant - Godspeed Animal Care

Godspeed Animal Care

Williamsburg, VA • On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Support veterinarians and technicians by cleaning and maintaining equipment, feeding, exercising, and grooming patients, and preparing and sanitizing surgery suites.

  • Assist with patient restraint, administer medications and treatments as directed, perform laboratory tests and radiographs, and maintain accurate medical records.

  • Maintain the cleanliness of the hospital, clean equipment and facilities, and ensure safe use of chemicals.

Job description

PetVet Care Centers' Godspeed Animal Care is currently seeking a Veterinary Assistant to join their team!
At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people - providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage - for all the moments that matter.
Because life is better with pets.
We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience - every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.
With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide, we offer:
  • Local autonomy with national support
  • Career mobility and development opportunities
  • A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first

You care for pets. We care for you.
Position Overview
Join our team as a Veterinary Assistant who supports the veterinarians and technicians in their daily tasks by cleaning and maintaining equipment, feeding, exercising and grooming patients, preparing and sanitizing surgery suites, restraining and handling patients, and clerical and administrative work. They deliver quality care for all patients and provide exceptional service.
Godspeed Animal Care in Williamsburg, Virginia has a remarkable origin story - founded in 1995 as a housecall practice, it expanded into a full brick-and-mortar clinic in 2001, and in 2005 added the adjacent St. Francis Pet Resort & Rehabilitation Center, creating a truly comprehensive pet care campus in Williamsburg, VA. Today, the campus offers luxury boarding, rehabilitation therapy, professional grooming, obedience training, doggy daycare, and a pet boutique alongside exceptional clinical veterinary care - making it a one-of-a-kind destination for pets and their families
Key Responsibilities
  • Provide compassionate care to all patients
  • Greet patients and their owners as they arrive and show them to an examining room, taking the patient's weight and other vital signs upon arrival
  • Triage patients, perform physical exams, treatments, and administer medication as directed by the licensed veterinary technicians (LVT's).
  • Calm and soothe anxious patients
  • Assist doctors and technicians with the administration of medications or with patient restraint
  • Perform laboratory tests and take radiographs
  • Operate and maintain hospital equipment, including EKG, fluid pump, syringe pump, scales, anesthetic monitors, and machines, etc.
  • Fill prescriptions, calculate and administer medications, maintain proper documentation, logging, and security of controlled drugs.
  • Feed patients as prescribed by the attending doctor or as the client has requested; record appetites; recognize and report any unusual conditions or abnormal behaviors
  • Communicate in a positive manner with clients and ensure that they feel comfortable leaving their pet(s)
  • Educate clients about insurance, wellness, and medicinal plans
  • Maintain the cleanliness of the hospital each day; clean equipment, kennels, and facilities using chemicals and supplies; ensure the safe use of chemicals; complete laundry
  • Bath and care for patients who stay overnight; ensure that every animal released is clean and properly groomed prior to their release
  • Adhere to the hospital's safety and wellness regulations
  • Understand and carry out oral and written directions
  • Maintain accurate medical records
  • Show up for work regularly; full-time presence at work is essential for every shift
  • Promote hospital products and services and support the organization
  • Respond respectfully with urgency to directions given by Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or Licensed Veterinary Technicians (LVT).
  • Perform any other duties as assigned by the Manager; may have other assigned duties if working in a specialty area (i.e., dentistry, surgery, emergency, radiology, cardiology, neurology, internal medicine, etc.)

Qualifications
  • Experienced veterinary assistant with strong animal restraint skills
  • Ability to run exam rooms efficiently
  • Able to set-up lab samples
  • Must be reliable and a team player who can work well in a fast paced AAHA practice.

Schedule
  • Day shifts, either 5 eight hour days or 4 ten hour days

What We Offer
We care deeply about supporting our team members - professionally and personally. Benefits include:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid Parental Leave (birth, adoption, foster)
  • 401(k) with discretionary contribution
  • Team Member Pet Discounts
  • Emotional wellbeing support - including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
  • CE stipends and career development resources
  • Grant Circle - a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
  • Local hospital culture backed by national resources

At PetVet Care Centers, we're committed to a Culture of Care - for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you're providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.

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