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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 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal lab assistant in Rochester, MN is $20.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $23.46 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 Rochester, MN? For Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Lab Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Animal Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Animal Lab Assistant job openings:
Animal Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Lab Assistant job openings in Rochester, MN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 43% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,808 per year, or $20.6 per hour.
Assistant Supervisor - Animal Care Facilities

Assistant Supervisor - Animal Care Facilities

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN • On-site

$24.55 - $35.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago

Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 679 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 872 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Why Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.

Responsibilities

Is responsible to and receives primary direction from the animal facility supervisor. Is also responsible to and works collaboratively with veterinary technologists, facility manager, veterinary consultants and the research administrator.
Approximately 50% of job responsibility is to provide quality care to all animals utilized in research including animal husbandry activities such as feeding, watering, sanitation, observation, room cleaning, and other duties as assigned.
Approximately 50% of job responsibility is to assists the facility supervisor with the training and development of the animal care technicians to ensure they are providing quality animal care for all research animals. Assists with facility orientations, facility maintenance, staff scheduling, SOP development, inventory and ordering, data entry, etc.  Communicates with principal investigators and lab staff to answer questions, trouble shoot problems, etc. 
Performs additional job-related functions as detailed by the staff veterinarians or facility supervisor.


Qualifications

High school diploma or GED required. Associate's degree preferred. Two years experience working in a lab animal care position required, or equivalent experience in a non-laboratory environment (using the following equation: 0.5 years in a non-laboratory environment = 1 month of lab animal experience). 

Demonstration of successful leadership and management traits in a business or organizational setting. Must be able to work well with others and follow directions. 

Licensure/Certification Required: AALAS certification at the assistant laboratory animal technician (ALAT) level is required. 

Additional AALAS certification at the laboratory animal technician (LAT) level is required within 12 months of hire.


Exemption Status
Nonexempt
Compensation Detail
Education, experience and tenure may be considered along with internal equity when job offers are extended.; $24.55 - 35.65/ hour
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Schedule
Full Time
Hours/Pay Period
80
Schedule Details
M - F 8hrs/ day
Weekend Schedule
on call rotation to be discussed at interview
International Assignment
No
Site Description
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is. 

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the 'EOE is the Law'.  Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

Recruiter
Jill SquierQualifications:

High school diploma or GED required. Associate's degree preferred. Two years experience working in a lab animal care position required, or equivalent experience in a non-laboratory environment (using the following equation: 0.5 years in a non-laboratory environment = 1 month of lab animal experience). 

Demonstration of successful leadership and management traits in a business or organizational setting. Must be able to work well with others and follow directions. 

Licensure/Certification Required: AALAS certification at the assistant laboratory animal technician (ALAT) level is required. 

Additional AALAS certification at the laboratory animal technician (LAT) level is required within 12 months of hire.

What Mayo Clinic employees say

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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919

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