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Animal Lab Assistant Jobs in Columbus, GA (NOW HIRING)

Animal Lab Assistant information

See Columbus, GA salary details

$9

$18

$26

How much do animal lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal lab assistant in Columbus, GA is $18.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $20.67 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 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 Columbus, GA? For Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Columbus, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Columbus, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Columbus, GA are:
What cities near Columbus, GA are hiring for Animal Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Columbus, GA with the most Animal Lab Assistant job openings:

Veterinary Technician Assistant / Kennel Assistant

Smiths Station Animal Hospital

Smiths Station, AL

$12 - $15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Who we are:

Smiths Station Animal Hospital is Hiring a Veterinary Technician Assistant / Kennel Assistant!

Position Details

Role: Veterinary Technician Assistant / Kennel AssistantStatus: Full-timeSalary: Negotiable and based on experienceSchedule: Full-time schedule; details discussed during interview process

Benefits Highlights

Financial Rewards that Grow with You: Competitive pay, 401(k) matching, tuition support, and referral bonuses

Wellness & Peace of Mind: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with supplemental options; up to three weeks of paid parental leave; generous PTO; and employee discounts

Professional Growth & Recognition: Quarterly team bonuses, continuing education allowance, and uniform allowance

Lifestyle Perks You'll Appreciate: Six paid holidays and an Employee Assistance Program

Looking for a Veterinary Assistant Role Where You Can Grow Your Skills and Make a Difference?

At Smiths Station Animal Hospital, we are passionate about providing exceptional care to our patients and the people who love them. We are looking for an experienced Veterinary Technician Assistant / Kennel Assistant to join our team and support our mission of creating healthier lives for pets and their families.

If you enjoy working in a fast-paced veterinary environment, thrive on teamwork, and are committed to providing outstanding patient care, we'd love to meet you. This is an excellent opportunity to join a hospital that balances professionalism with a fun-loving, supportive culture.

Why Our Veterinary Assistants Love Smiths Station Animal Hospital

  • Supportive and collaborative team environment
  • Opportunities to learn, grow, and expand your veterinary skills
  • A hospital culture focused on patient care and teamwork
  • Mentorship and ongoing professional development opportunities
  • A workplace where your contributions are valued and appreciated
  • The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of pets and their families

What You'll Do

  • Assist veterinarians and technicians with patient care and treatments
  • Support preventative care and vaccine protocols
  • Dispense and administer medications as directed
  • Obtain complete patient histories and maintain accurate treatment records
  • Perform venipuncture and assist with IV catheter placement
  • Assist with surgical preparation, monitoring, and patient recovery
  • Perform pharmacology calculations as needed
  • Support kennel operations and daily patient care responsibilities
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization throughout the hospital
  • Deliver compassionate care and excellent client service

What Our Veterinary Assistants Bring

  • At least two years of veterinary experience preferred
  • Licensed Veterinary Technician credentials are a plus
  • Knowledge of vaccines and preventative care protocols
  • Experience dispensing and administering medications
  • Strong patient history collection and recordkeeping skills
  • Experience with surgical preparation, anesthesia monitoring, and recovery
  • Venipuncture and IV catheter placement experience
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Positive attitude and commitment to exceptional patient care

The Extras You'll Actually Feel

  • A fun-loving, professional hospital culture
  • Supportive teammates who genuinely enjoy working together
  • Opportunities to continue learning and developing your skills
  • A workplace that values employee well-being
  • Meaningful work helping pets and their families every day

Benefits You Can't Beat

Financial Benefits

  • A flexible approach to compensation that reflects your skill set and future performance
  • 401(k) matching & Roth Retirement Savings Plan
  • Flexible Spending Account (full-time only)
  • 529 Savings Plan
  • Tuition Support Program (full-time only)
  • Referral bonus program

Wellness Benefits

  • Health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision (full-time only)
  • Supplemental insurance, including accident, critical illness, hospital, short and long-term disability, legal plan, and employee, spouse, and child-dependent life insurance (full-time only)
  • Up to three weeks of full pay for the birth or adoption of a child (full-time employees only; available after one year of service). In states with paid family leave programs, this benefit does not apply.
  • Sick Time / Paid Time Off
  • Free/discounted lab work for all employee pets
  • Pet discounts on services and products
  • Pet food discount program

Workplace Benefits

  • Quarterly Team Rewards Bonus Program
  • State license reimbursement
  • VTNE exam fee reimbursement
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Continuing education allowance
  • Uniform allowance

Lifestyle Benefits

  • Six paid holidays (full-time only)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee discount program

Join Our Team!

If you're passionate about animal care and ready to join a team that values compassion, collaboration, and professional growth, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and discover what makes Smiths Station Animal Hospital such a rewarding place to build your veterinary career!

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values at Smiths Station Animal Hospital and Vetcor. We are passionate about building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working and learning environment for all employees. Every team member enriches our diversity by exposing us to a broad range of ways to understand and engage with the world. That's why we're committed to a workplace culture where employees are comfortable being their authentic selves, feel a full sense of belonging, and are empowered to reach their highest potential.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME