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Animal Science Jobs in Ruston, LA (NOW HIRING)

Animal Science information

See Ruston, LA salary details

$7

$16

$22

How much do animal science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal science in Ruston, LA is $16.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is animal science?

Animal science is the study of the biology, care, and management of animals that are under human control, such as livestock, companion animals, and laboratory animals. It covers topics like animal nutrition, genetics, physiology, behavior, and welfare. Professionals in this field work to improve animal health, productivity, and well-being, often contributing to food production, research, and public health. Careers in animal science can include roles in research, agriculture, veterinary support, and animal welfare organizations.

What are animal science jobs?

Animal science jobs include veterinarians, biologists, agricultural researchers, and livestock management positions. There are also opportunities in nutrition, breeding, animal behavior, food processing and manufacturing, and education. Your duties in an animal science job may vary significantly depending on the position. As a veterinarian, for example, your primary responsibilities are to provide medical care for animals, but you may also aid in research to support clinical breakthroughs, herd health, and other facets of animal science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Scientist, you need a solid background in biology, animal physiology, genetics, and nutrition, typically supported by a bachelor's or advanced degree in animal science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and sometimes certifications like Professional Animal Scientist (PAS) are commonly required. Strong observation skills, critical thinking, and effective communication make candidates stand out in research and collaboration settings. These skills ensure accurate research, ethical animal care, and the advancement of agricultural or biomedical goals.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in animal science, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in animal science often encounter challenges such as balancing animal welfare with productivity goals, staying updated with rapidly evolving research, and managing biosecurity risks. Addressing these challenges involves continuous professional development, effective collaboration with veterinarians and other specialists, and adherence to ethical and safety standards. Additionally, strong communication skills are essential for working with diverse teams, including farm staff, researchers, and regulatory bodies, to ensure best practices are consistently implemented.

Is animal science a useful degree?

Animal science is a useful degree for careers in livestock management, research, veterinary assistance, and the agricultural industry. It provides knowledge of animal biology, nutrition, and husbandry, often requiring hands-on experience and certifications. Graduates can work in farms, laboratories, or regulatory agencies, with job prospects depending on specialization and location.

What can I be with an animal science degree?

An animal science degree prepares individuals for careers such as animal technician, livestock manager, research scientist, or veterinarian technician. It provides knowledge of animal biology, management, and nutrition, often requiring hands-on experience and certifications for certain roles.

What job categories do people searching Animal Science jobs in Ruston, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Science jobs in Ruston, LA are:

What cities near Ruston, LA are hiring for Animal Science jobs?

Cities near Ruston, LA with the most Animal Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Animal Science job openings in Ruston, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,342 per year, or $17 per hour.

Part-Time UF/IFAS 4-H Camp Timpoochee Environmental Education Educator

University of Florida

Okaloosa, LA • On-site

$16.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 27 days ago


University Of Florida rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 108 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Part-Time UF/IFAS 4-H Camp Timpoochee Environmental Education Educator

Apply now Job no: 540680
Work type: Temp Part-Time
Location: Okaloosa
Categories: Recreation/Event Services, Agricultural Sciences, Early childhood education/Childcare
Department:60330100 - AG-CAMP TIMPOOCHEE

Classification Title:

OPS Time-Limited Non-Clerical

Classification Minimum Requirements:

High School diploma or its equivalent is minimum requirements

Job Description:

Essential Tasks

Florida 4-H environmental educators play a key role in creating engaging and hands-on environmental education experiences. Your responsibilities will include:

  • Teach, organize, and evaluate educational programs, focused on Florida's marine natural resources, to students in grades K-12 through day residential, and outreach programs
  • Provide programmatic support to maintain and increase marine and environmental education classes, activities, and materials.
  • Assist with animal care for education animals
  • Help maintain clean facilities utilized for educational programs on-site
  • May assist with dining hall duties as needed, for on-site educational programs

Help with other programmatic responsibilities as needed  

Expected Salary:

$16.50 per hour

Required Qualifications:

High School diploma or its equivalent is minimum requirements

Preferred:

Preferred qualification is a Bachelors Degree, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience, in sciences, education, natural resources, youth development, recreational leadership or other related fields is required.  Must pass a Background Screening prior to hire. Valid driver's license preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

  • Teach pre-designed environmental education curricula to a variety of ages and abilities
  • Effective oral communication with both large and small groups
  • Effective written communication
  • Customer service
  • Experience working with youth
  • Knowledge, experience and/or interest in teaching marine and environmental education 
Special Instructions to Applicants:

This position is an OPS seasonal position, with two seasons available for employment:

  • Fall Term: 9/15/26 - 11/25/26
  • Winter/Spring Term: 1/15/27-4/30/27

Weekly schedules vary, depending upon programming but would typically be M-F, between  8AM-5PM. Some night and weekend work. Average of 30 hours/week.

Benefits of Accepting this Position

Tangible:

  • Hourly wage of $16.50/hour, with average work week of 30 hours/week
  • Housing may be available on-site at no additional cost
  • American Red Cross certifications provided, including: First Aid, CPR, AED, and waterfront lifeguarding
  • Explore additional benets for University of Florida OPS positions at: Temporary Staff (OPS) | Current Employees

Intangible:

Be part of the world's largest positive youth development program (4-H) and connected to a top 5 University (University of Florida). Make a difference in the future of Florida's environment by educating our youth. Connect with a strong network of youth development and environmental professionals and fellow educators.

To be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Health Assessment Required: No

Advertised: 21 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 18 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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About University of Florida

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Florida is one of the top ranked public universities in the United States (ranked top 5 amongst public universities in 2023 US news and world report). It is one of only a few comprehensive universities, having medical, veterinary, dental, nursing, public health, and engineering disciplines all co-localized on the same, contiguous campus to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration. Gainesville is located in the northern region of Florida, within 1-1.5 hours of each coast, and just 1.5-2 hours to Orlando and Tampa. It is a small to medium-sized city with a low cost of living, excellent public and private schools, and southern hospitality. While Gainesville is widely recognized as the home of the Gators, it is quickly becoming known as a center for innovation and a place with a lifestyle that's comfortable for families, yet attractive for young professionals.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Gainesville, FL, US

Year founded

1853