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Animal Lab Assistant Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Animal Lab Assistant information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$12

$24

$36

How much do animal lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal lab assistant in Berkeley, CA is $24.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $28.27 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 job categories do people searching Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA are:

What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Animal Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Animal Lab Assistant job openings:

Animal Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Lab Assistant job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,565 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Assistant/ Associate/ Full Specialist Position - Pati Lab

UCSF

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

237th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Assistant/ Associate/ Full Specialist Position - Pati Lab

The Pati Lab is currently seeking an Assistant, Associate, or Full Specialist, in the Department of Laboratory Medicine. The position involves assisting with and executing rodent models of injury, including traumatic brain injury (TBI), hemorrhagic shock, and cancer, accounting for approximately 40% of responsibilities. Another 20% is dedicated to performing molecular tissue workups derived from these trauma models. The role also includes conducting cell culture and molecular biology–based studies on tissues and cells (20%). Additional responsibilities include maintaining lab organization (5%). The remaining 15% of time is spent on data analysis and contributing to the writing of papers and research protocols.

Required Qualifications: • For Assistant Specialists: A master's degree, or a baccalaureate degree with 3 or more years of research experience. • For Associate Specialists: A master's degree (or equivalent degree) or five to ten years of experience in the relevant specialization. • For Full Specialist: A terminal degree (or equivalent degree) or ten or more years of experience in the relevant specialization. • Experience with molecular techniques, animal surgery, tissue work up, cell biology. • Interest in clinically relevant projects that can impact patient outcomes in trauma. • Able to work independently after guidance is given by the PI.

Please apply online with a CV, cover letter, a statement of research, and the contact information for 3 references that includes one person for whom you've worked with in a lab.

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $63,500 - $194,800.

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