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Lab Animal Care Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lab Animal Care Technician

Auburn, AL · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Overview The College of Veterinary Medicine seeks candidates for a Lab Animal Care Technician. This position oversees the daily care and welfare of various laboratory animal species across multiple ...

Sr. Animal Care Technician

Miami, FL

$15 - $20.25/hr

Minimum 3 years of animal care experience is required with at least 2 years of Lab Animal Care experience. Animal research facility experience in the handling of multiple species, including swine ...

Sr. Animal Care Technician

Miami, FL · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Minimum 3 years of animal care experience is required with at least 2 years of Lab Animal Care experience. Animal research facility experience in the handling of multiple species, including swine ...

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Lab Animal Care information

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How much do lab animal care jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab animal care in the United States is $23.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are lab animal care jobs?

Lab animal care jobs involve the daily care and maintenance of animals used in scientific research. Professionals in this field are responsible for feeding, cleaning, monitoring health, and ensuring the well-being of laboratory animals. They may also assist researchers by handling animals during experiments and keeping detailed records of observations and procedures. Attention to detail, compassion for animals, and knowledge of animal welfare regulations are important aspects of this job.

What is the difference between Lab Animal Care vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectLab Animal CareVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certification in animal careAssociate's degree in veterinary technology; licensure or certification often required
Work EnvironmentResearch facilities, laboratories, animal housing areasVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, clinics
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, pharmaceutical companies, universitiesVeterinary practices, animal hospitals, clinics
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in animal research and careProviding medical care to animals in clinical settings

Lab Animal Care professionals focus on maintaining the health and well-being of animals used in research within laboratory settings, often requiring basic animal care certifications. Veterinary Technicians provide medical treatment and assist veterinarians in clinical environments, requiring specialized veterinary training and licensure. While both roles involve animal care, their work environments, credentials, and responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Animal Care Technician, and why are they important?

To excel as a Lab Animal Care Technician, you typically need knowledge of animal husbandry, basic biology, and animal welfare, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, cage-washing systems, and compliance standards such as IACUC protocols or AALAS certification is valuable. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, and reliability are important soft skills for monitoring animal health and maintaining accurate records. These competencies ensure the well-being of research animals and uphold ethical standards critical for successful scientific studies.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in Lab Animal Care?

Professionals in Lab Animal Care are responsible for feeding and watering animals, cleaning and sanitizing cages, monitoring animal health, and maintaining detailed records. They may also assist researchers during procedures, handle animal transportation within the facility, and help ensure compliance with animal welfare regulations. The role often involves early morning shifts and requires strong attention to detail, as animal well-being and accurate documentation are essential priorities.
More about Lab Animal Care jobs
What cities are hiring for Lab Animal Care jobs? Cities with the most Lab Animal Care job openings:
What states have the most Lab Animal Care jobs? States with the most job openings for Lab Animal Care jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lab Animal Care job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,889 per year, or $23 per hour.
Lab Animal Care Technician

Lab Animal Care Technician

Auburn University

Auburn, AL • On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Auburn University rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

469th of 539 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Overview
The College of Veterinary Medicine seeks candidates for a Lab Animal Care Technician. This position oversees the daily care and welfare of various laboratory animal species across multiple facilities. Ensures their health and well-being by monitoring their condition, administering medications, maintaining clean housing, and assisting with veterinary procedures. Adherence to protocols and effective communication with staff and veterinarians are crucial for success in this role.
Special Instructions:
Required Documents:
  • Resume
  • Cover letter

Combine into one document and upload your cover letter and resume under the "Resume Upload" section (maximum file size: 5 MB).
To learn more about the College of Veterinary Medicine, visit: https://www.vetmed.auburn.edu/
Responsibilities
  • Animal Feeding and Hydration: Ensures all animals are provided with appropriate food and fresh water according to their dietary needs.
  • Health Monitoring: Regularly observes animals for signs of illness, injury, or distress and reports any concerns to the veterinary staff.
  • Record Keeping: Maintains accurate records of animal health, treatments, and daily care activities.
  • Biosecurity: Follows all biosecurity and chemical safety requirements for animal care.
  • Sanitation: Cleans and disinfects animal enclosures, cages, and equipment to maintain a hygienic environment. This may include upkeep and maintenance of animal housing areas through sweeping, mopping, and sanitization of walls, floors, tables, and equipment.
  • Compliance: Ensures adherence to all regulatory guidelines and protocols related to animal care, laboratory procedures, and biosecurity protocols to include wearing correct personal protective equipment (PPE), stocking of PPE, and maintaining footbaths.
  • Support Areas: Performs various duties in animal support areas, including laundry, cleaning and sterilizing equipment, and loading and unloading supply racks.

Qualifications
Level I:
  • High school diploma or equivalent

Level II:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 2 years of experience in animal care and husbandry practices

OR
  • Associate's degree or Vocational Certificate in Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, or related program

Level III:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 4 years of experience in animal care and husbandry practices

OR
  • Associate's degree or Vocational Certificate in Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, or related program
  • 2 years of experience in animal care and husbandry practices

OR
  • Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, or related program

American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS), Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT), Laboratory Animal Technician (LAT), or Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG) certifications may be considered in lieu of experience.
License and Certification:
  • Valid in state driver's license required upon hire

Desired Qualifications:
Lab animal experience is desired
Contract Type
Continuing
Why Work at Auburn?
  • Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
  • Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
  • We're Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
  • Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
  • A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.
  • Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

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