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Animal Studies Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Technician

San Diego, CA

$19 - $26.25/hr

Work directly with awake pigs during animal studies, including handling, monitoring, and supporting protocol-related procedures. * Troubleshoot laboratory procedures and equipment issues to maintain ...

Research Technician

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Responsibilities include conducting cell culture experiments, processing human and murine samples, assisting with animal studies, performing molecular and cellular assays, maintaining laboratory ...

The Laboratory Animal Technician assists in accurately and efficiently conducting animal studies. Job Responsibilities: * Administer doses of compounds to rats and mice via common dosing routes ...

Laboratory Animal Technician

Westminster, CO · On-site

$18.80 - $24.50/hr

The Laboratory Animal Technician assists in accurately and efficiently conducting animal studies. Job Responsibilities: * Administer doses of compounds to rats and mice via common dosing routes ...

Solid understanding of GLP regulations (21 CFR Part 58), basic knowledge of ISO 10993, and familiarity with in vivo animal studies. * Strong organizational and project management skills with proven ...

Research Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The research assistant will directly assist PI and PI lab and able to work with cell culture, processing clinical specimens and animal studies. This person must have adequate wet lab (ELISA ...

Showing results 41-60

Animal Studies information

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$9

$21

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How much do animal studies jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal studies in the United States is $21.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are animal studies?

Animal studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines the relationships between humans and non-human animals. It explores topics such as animal behavior, welfare, ethics, representation in culture, and the role of animals in society. Researchers in animal studies may come from diverse backgrounds, including biology, philosophy, literature, anthropology, and environmental studies. The field seeks to promote understanding and awareness of the complexities involved in human-animal interactions and often advocates for the ethical treatment of animals.

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

To thrive as an Animal Studies professional, you need a solid background in animal biology, behavior, and welfare, often supported by a degree in animal science, zoology, or a related field. Experience with laboratory techniques, data analysis software, and certifications in animal care and handling (such as AALAS certifications) are commonly required. Strong observational skills, ethical judgment, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this field. These qualifications ensure that professionals can conduct ethical research, provide quality animal care, and contribute valuable insights to animal welfare and science.

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

Professionals in animal studies often encounter challenges such as balancing animal welfare with research objectives, adhering to strict regulatory requirements, and managing emotional stress associated with animal care. Effective communication with colleagues, ongoing training in ethical standards, and access to support resources can help navigate these challenges. Additionally, working within a collaborative team environment and participating in regular review sessions ensures continuous improvement in both scientific outcomes and animal well-being.

What is the difference between Animal Studies vs Animal Care Technician?

AspectAnimal StudiesAnimal Care Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in animal science, biology, or related fieldHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, or animal research facilitiesAnimal shelters, veterinary clinics, research facilities
Industry UsageAcademic research, animal behavior studies, conservation projectsAnimal husbandry, daily animal care, husbandry tasks
Common Search/ComparisonAnimal Studies vs Animal Care Technician

Animal Studies typically involves academic or research-focused work requiring a degree, focusing on understanding animal behavior, biology, or conservation. In contrast, Animal Care Technicians provide hands-on daily care for animals in shelters or clinics, often with minimal formal education. Both roles are vital in animal-related industries but differ in education requirements, work environment, and job responsibilities.

What can you do with animal studies?

Animal studies professionals can work in research, testing, and conservation, analyzing animal behavior, physiology, and health. They often work in laboratories, wildlife reserves, or veterinary settings, utilizing skills in data collection, analysis, and ethical practices. These roles may require knowledge of biology, laboratory techniques, and relevant certifications.

What job allows you to study animals?

A career in animal studies typically involves roles such as zoologist, wildlife biologist, or animal behaviorist, where you observe, research, and analyze animal behavior and ecosystems. These jobs often require a degree in biology, zoology, or related fields, and may involve fieldwork, laboratory work, or both.
More about Animal Studies jobs

What cities are hiring for Animal Studies jobs?

Cities with the most Animal Studies job openings:

What states have the most Animal Studies jobs?

States with the most job openings for Animal Studies jobs include:

Infographic showing various Animal Studies job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,783 per year, or $21 per hour.

Laboratory Animal Technician - College of Engineering - Biomedical Engineering

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Carnegie Mellon University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world's most renowned education institutions. With ground-breaking brain science, path-breaking performances, creative start-ups, big data, big ambitions, hands-on learning, and a whole lot of robots, CMU doesn't imagine the future, we invent it. If you're passionate about joining a community that challenges the curious to deliver work that matters, your journey starts here!

The Biomedical Engineering (BME) Department at Carnegie Mellon University is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to solving complex healthcare challenges. Located within CMU's College of Engineering, the department emphasizes the integration of engineering principles with biomedical sciences to address pressing medical and biological issues. The department is characterized by its focus on creating impactful technologies and therapies that improve patient care and advance biomedical innovation globally.

The Biomedical Engineering (BME) Department at Carnegie Mellon University is looking for a laboratory animal technician that will support multiple laboratory animal studies involving mice, rats, rabbits, pigs, and sheep. This role is responsible for providing high-quality animal care, assisting with research procedures, and ensuring compliance with institutional, federal, and regulatory standards. The technician will work closely with Dr. Keith Cook's surgical research manager and research staff to promote animal welfare and support successful study outcomes.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Ensure all animal-related activities are conducted in compliance with IACUC-approved protocols, institutional policies, and applicable regulatory standards (e.g., USDA, AAALAC, NIH).
  • Maintain accurate, timely documentation of animal care, health observations, procedures, and study activities.
  • Assist with treatment administration, post-procedural monitoring, and recovery care as directed.
  • Support research procedures including animal handling and restraint, dosing, sample collection (e.g., blood and tissue), and data recording.
  • Provide assistance with both surgical and non-surgical procedures under the supervision of the surgical manager, including anesthesia monitoring and perioperative care.
  • Participate in behavioral training, acclimation protocols, and other study-specific procedures as required.
  • Prepare, clean, maintain, and troubleshoot equipment, supplies, and procedure areas to ensure safe and efficient study execution.
  • Assist with recruitment, onboarding, training, and acclimating research participants (staff/students) to the lab.
  • Adhere strictly to biosafety, PPE, and sanitation practices.
  • Collaborate effectively with veterinarians, researchers, and animal care staff across multiple studies, and assist in training new staff and students in proper animal handling and basic research procedures.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support study needs and animal welfare.

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

  • Associate's degree
  • Veterinary Technician degree/certificate or equivalent training.
  • 1-3 years' Experience
  • Hands-on animal care, handling and restraint across multiple species
  • A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree
  • AALAS certification (ALAT, LAT, or LATG); additional training in anesthesia monitoring or surgical assistance.
  • Experience working with animals in a research or laboratory setting, assisting with anesthesia and surgical procedures, sample collection, and study documentation. Rodent and/or large animal
    experience.

Requirements:

  • Successful background check
  • Physical and Mental Requirements:
    • Ability to handle and restrain animals of varying sizes, including large animals (pigs, sheep).
    • Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks.
    • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs and pull/push equipment as required.
    • Visual acuity for detailed observations and recordkeeping.
    • Ability to work under pressure, prioritize tasks, and respond to emergencies
  • Working Conditions:
    • Required to stand and/or walk for extended periods and function in constricted spaces when needed.
    • May be required to work irregular or extended hours, including nights, weekends, and emergency calls depending on study needs.
    • Routine exposure to biological materials, anesthetic agents, and cleaning/disinfecting chemicals.
    • May be required to travel to offcampus or remote study locations.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it's about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Technicians

Position Type

Staff - Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Hourly

More Information:

  • Please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon" to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.

  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.

  • Statement of Assurance


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