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Lab Animal Care Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Tekberry

Scientist

Charles City, IA · On-site

$21/hr

Maintain laboratory animal care by adhering to best practices and ethical responsibilities ... lab supplies and equipment to support consistent workflow and compliance. * Support upkeep ...

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Lab Animal Care information

What is a lab animal care job?

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 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.

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 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 popular job titles related to Lab Animal Care jobs in Iowa?

For Lab Animal Care jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Animal Care jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Animal Care jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Lab Animal Care jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Lab Animal Care job openings:

Lab Animal Care jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Animal Care job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Registered Veterinary Technician at Ottumwa Family Animal Care

Ottumwa Family Animal Care

Ottumwa, IA • On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Practice
From wellness pet exams and vaccines to advanced diagnostics and complex surgical procedures, our services assure our clients of the highest quality of care possible. We take pride in staying current with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine and technology, allowing us to provide the best possible care for our surrouding communities.
More about the Role
The Veterinary Technician assists the veterinarians and other technicians with patient care and treatment, monitors hospitalized pets, maintains inventory, prepares prescriptions, performs routine in-house laboratory work, educates clients regarding veterinary care and procedures, and assists with surgical procedures.
Pay $17 - $18
Sign-On Bonus $250 upon Hire & another $250 after 90 days of employment
Please note, proof of currently licensure if required before the sign-on bonus is awarded.
Competencies
  • Patience & Compassion: Remaining professional while still making teammates, clients, and patients feel as comfortable as possible regardless of the situation or challenges presented. Responding quickly and calmly to crisis while maintaining a high standard of patient care.
  • Collaboration & Teamwork: Carefully coordinating actions with veterinarians and practice team members. Providing feedback appropriately and in a timely manner. Quickly incorporating feedback to ensure positive results. Sharing ideas and being open to other's ideas.
  • Communicating: Conveying instructions to clients and teammates to ensure successful patient care.
  • Active Listening: Following the instructions of veterinarians and sometimes patient owners. Picking up the needs of veterinarians and teammates based on prior experiences and feedback.
  • Organization Skills: Clear tracking of lab specimens, medications, patient instructions, workflow, and other job-related items while managing multiple patients and clients.
  • Client Satisfaction: Ensuring all activities and interactions result in the highest level of client satisfaction.

Essential Responsibilities
  • Assist veterinarians in the practice of veterinary medicine and surgery and other tasks as needed.
  • Assist veterinarians in outpatient exams by taking histories, vital signs, and weights, as well as providing client education.
  • Prepare patients for surgery and monitor vital signs of the patient during surgery.
  • Obtain blood, stool, and other samples; perform in-hospital laboratory testing and prepare specimens for outside laboratories.
  • Take, develop, and maintain radiographs following proper safety procedures.
  • Provide basic animal handling and restrain animals during exams.
  • Administer and monitor medications, anesthesia, vaccines, and treatments at the discretion of the veterinarian.
  • Clean and straighten exam rooms, treatment, and lab areas; restock exam rooms with supplies. Assist other team members to keep the public areas of the practice clean; clean and maintain all medical equipment.
  • Demonstrate warmth, courtesy and professionalism in all interactions with clients; exercise compassion and care in all interactions with patients.
  • Communicate with veterinarians and practice team members including client discussions, patient plans, client concerns, etc.
  • Any other duties as assigned.

Requirements/Qualifications
  • Ability to work on weekends as required
  • Previous veterinary experience preferred
  • Ability to lift patients and carry equipment up to 25 pounds; ability to lift patients or carry equipment over 25 pounds with assistance
  • Practice OSHA safety techniques including proper PPE
  • Basic math and the ability to calculate medication dosages
  • Basic computer skills, familiarity with MS office applications, etc.
  • Strong communication skills to ensure patient safety

Benefits Offered
  • Paid time off
  • Health insurance; dental insurance; vision insurance
  • Retirement benefits or accounts
  • Bonus incentive
  • Flexible work schedules
  • Career and professional development
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Referral Program

Benefits offered may vary depending on full or part time employment status according to company policy.
Pay Range
USD $17.00 - USD $18.00 /Hr.

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