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Animal Research Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

UC San Diego Health

Incumbent will also oversee animal studies such as maintaining a breeding colony, genotyping, microsurgery. Research Associate will be expected to work independently on data collection, analyses, and ...

New

Caltech

Senior Research Associate

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$29.75 - $37.25/hr

We are seeking a Senior Research Associate to join our team and help us accomplish this research ... Coordinate animal experiment needs with lab members and ensure an appropriate supply. * Maintain ...

Certified Group

Research Associate

Turlock, CA

FSNS Certification & Audit - Provides accredited third-party auditing and certification services, including food safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs. JOB SUMMARY The Research Associate conducts ...

Certified Group

Research Associate

Turlock, CA · On-site

FSNS Certification & Audit - Provides accredited third-party auditing and certification services, including food safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs. JOB SUMMARY The Research Associate conducts ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAnimal Research Associate JobsAnimal Research Associate Jobs in California

Animal Research Associate information

See California salary details

$15

$32

$49

How much do animal research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal research associate in California is $32.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.44 and $37.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Animal Research Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectAnimal Research AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in biology, animal science, or related fieldUsually an associate degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, animal facilities, pharmaceutical companiesMedical labs, research facilities, hospitals
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical, biotech, academic researchHealthcare, research institutions, hospitals
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to similar lab work and research rolesRelated but more technical and less animal-focused

The main difference is that Animal Research Associates focus on working directly with animals in research settings, while Laboratory Technicians handle various lab tests and procedures often without animal involvement. Both roles require technical skills and are vital in research environments, but their focus and daily tasks differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Research jobs in California? The most popular types of Animal Research jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Research Associate jobs in California? For Animal Research Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Research Associate jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Research Associate jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Animal Research Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Animal Research Associate job openings:
Animal Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Research Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,511 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

In Vivo Research Associate I / II (Preclinical Animal Studies)

Biolegacy Research

San Diego, CA • On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

About BioLegacy Research

BioLegacy Research is a leading preclinical research organization dedicated to advancing innovative therapies through high-quality in vivo and translational research services. Our team partners with biotech and pharmaceutical companies to accelerate the development of life-changing treatments across a range of therapeutic areas. At BioLegacy, we foster a collaborative, science-driven environment where employees are empowered to learn, grow, and contribute to cutting-edge research.

Job Overview

BioLegacy Research is seeking motivated and detail-oriented In Vivo Research Associates (Level I or II) to support preclinical animal studies. These roles are hands-on and primarily focused on in vivo work with laboratory animals (rodents).

This is not a bench-based or in vitro-focused role. Candidates must be comfortable performing animal procedures and working in a fast-paced preclinical environment.

Research Associates will contribute to study execution, including dosing, animal monitoring, sample collection, and data recording, while ensuring compliance with study protocols and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities

Perform in vivo dosing procedures (e.g., oral gavage, subcutaneous, intravenous, intraperitoneal)

Handle, restrain, and monitor laboratory animals

Observe and record animal health, clinical signs, and study data

Collect biological samples (e.g., blood, tissues)

Support or perform necropsy and tissue collection

Prepare dosing solutions, study materials, and procedure areas

Maintain accurate and timely documentation in compliance with GLP and SOPs

Follow all IACUC and animal welfare guidelines

Collaborate with cross-functional study teams

Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant work environment

Additional Responsibilities for RA II:

Execute studies with greater independence and minimal supervision

Perform more advanced procedures (e.g., IV dosing, complex sample collection)

Assist in training junior staff (Technicians, RA I)

Support study coordination and troubleshoot routine study issues

Contribute to protocol adherence and process improvements

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Animal Science, or related life sciences field (preferred), OR

Associate’s degree with relevant hands-on experience

Research Associate I (Entry-Level / Early Career)

0–2 years of relevant experience in in vivo animal research or related setting

Basic knowledge or exposure to animal handling and preclinical studies

Willingness to learn in vivo techniques (dosing, sample collection, necropsy support)

Works under close supervision

Research Associate II (Intermediate Level)

2–4+ years of hands-on in vivo experience in a research or preclinical setting

Demonstrated proficiency in rodent handling, dosing, and sample collection

Experience with multiple dosing routes (e.g., PO, SC, IP, IV preferred)

Ability to work independently and manage routine study tasks

Prior experience supporting GLP studies or regulated environments preferred

Required / Core Competencies

Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy

Ability to follow protocols and work in a regulated environment

Team-oriented with good communication skills

Comfortable working with laboratory animals

Not a Fit For Candidates With Only:

Cell culture or in vitro laboratory experience

Molecular biology techniques (PCR, ELISA, Western blot) without animal work

Bench-only research backgrounds

Why BioLegacy Research?

At BioLegacy Research, we are committed to supporting our employees’ professional growth and advancement within preclinical research.

Our Benefits Include:

Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance with employer contributions

Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

401(k) plan with employer match

Employer-paid life and disability insurance

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Paid time off and tuition reimbursement

Equal Opportunity Employer

BioLegacy Research is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are valued and empowered to succeed.

Apply