1

Lab Animal Research Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Animal Research / Lab Animal Care Contractor Location : 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco CA USA 94080 Duration : 15+ Months. Working Model: Fully Onsite Pay : $37.17/hr Requirements: * Bachelor ...

RESEARCH ASSISTANT II - Jin Lab

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$20.50 - $28.25/hr

Coordinate with lab members on experimental timelines, animal use, sequencing submissions, and ... Follow institutional biosafety, animal research, and laboratory compliance policies, including ...

Research Technician

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Hands-on bench and wet lab experience in environments such as biotech, medical device, academic or university research labs, animal research facilities, CROs, or diagnostics laboratories. * Ability ...

Background in lab animal (in vivo) research with a focus on surgical techniques is a must. * Ability to perform study duties and responsibilities in multiple species with minimal supervision. * Must ...

... research effort. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 1 year of animal handling or lab animal sanitation equipment operations experience required. Ability to communicate animal health information to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lab Animal Research information

See California salary details

$8

$21

$41

How much do lab animal research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab animal research in California is $21.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is lab animal research?

Lab animal research involves the use of animals in scientific experiments to understand biological processes, test the safety and effectiveness of new treatments, and advance medical knowledge. Researchers work with species like mice, rats, and sometimes larger animals under strict ethical guidelines to ensure humane treatment. This field is crucial for biomedical discoveries and the development of new medicines, vaccines, and therapies. Scientists and technicians working in lab animal research are responsible for animal care, conducting experiments, and maintaining accurate records. The work is regulated by laws and overseen by institutional committees to ensure animal welfare.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab animal researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Animal Researcher, you need a background in biological sciences, animal care, and research methodology, typically supported by a relevant degree and animal handling experience. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, animal management software, and certifications like AALAS are commonly required. Attention to detail, ethical judgment, and strong teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These qualifications ensure the welfare of lab animals, compliance with regulations, and the integrity of research outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in lab animal research, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in lab animal research often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to ethical standards, managing the health and welfare of animals, and ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines. Balancing the demands of research timelines with animal care requirements can also be demanding. These challenges are typically managed through rigorous training, clear communication within research teams, and regular collaboration with veterinarians and compliance officers. Building strong teamwork and staying updated on best practices can help professionals navigate these complexities effectively.

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

AspectLab Animal ResearchLaboratory Animal Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in biology, animal science, or related field; certifications like AALAS ALAT often preferredUsually requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications like AALAS ALAT are common
Work EnvironmentResearch facilities, laboratories, academic institutionsVeterinary clinics, research labs, animal care facilities
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, pharmaceutical companies, universitiesResearch labs, animal care facilities, biotech companies

Lab Animal Research professionals focus on designing and conducting experiments involving animals, often requiring advanced degrees and research certifications. Laboratory Animal Technicians primarily handle daily animal care, ensuring proper housing and health, with less emphasis on research design. Both roles are vital in the animal research industry but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What job categories do people searching Lab Animal Research jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Animal Research jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Lab Animal Research jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lab Animal Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Animal Research job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,215 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Animal Research

South San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

Lancesoft INC
Recruiting and Staffing Servicesย โ€ขย 1 - 5K employees

$37/hr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired 3 days ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Position : Animal Research / Lab Animal Care Contractor
Location           : 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco CA USA 94080

Duration           : 15+ Months.

Working Model: Fully Onsite

Pay                  : $37.17/hr


Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree with internship, co-op, or academic research experience involving animal handling.
  • Hands-on experience with lab animal husbandry, dosing, and animal administration is mandatory.
  • Approximately 70% of the role involves hands-on animal handling.
  • Support sample processing, documentation, data organization/analysis, and general laboratory activities.
  • Prior biohazard experience is not required, but candidates must complete mandatory biohazard handling training.
  • Molecular biology or other laboratory techniques are a plus.

Interview Process:

  • 1st Round: 30-minute virtual interview.
  • 2nd Round: Mandatory onsite interview.
  • Candidates are responsible for their own travel/relocation expenses.

Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours/week; weekend coverage may be required.

Company Description

LanceSoft is rated as one of the largest staffing firms in the US by SIA. Our mission is to establish global cross-culture human connections that further the careers of our employees and strengthen the businesses of our clients. We are driven to use the power of our global network to connect businesses with the right people, and people with the right businesses without bias. We provide Global Workforce Solutions with a human touch.


LanceSoft logo

About LanceSoft

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Established in 2000, LanceSoft is a Certified MBE and Woman-Owned organization. Lancesoft Inc. is one of the highest rated companies in the industry. We have been recognized as one of the Largest Staffing firms and ranked in the top 50 fastest Growing Healthcare Staffing firms in 2022. Lancesoft offers short- and long-term contracts, permanent placements, and travel opportunities to credentialed and experienced professionals throughout the United States. We pride ourselves on having industry leading benefits. We understand the importance of partnering with an expert who values your needs, which is why we're 100% committed to finding you an assignment that best matches your career and lifestyle goals. Our team of experienced career specialists takes the time to understand your needs and match you with the right job Lancesoft has been chosen by Staffing Industry Analysts as one of the Best Staffing Firms to Work for.LanceSoft specializes in providing Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, LPNs/LVNs, Social Workers, Medical Assistants, and Certified Nursing Assistants to work in Acute Care Centers, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Long-Term Care centers, Rehab Facilities, Behavioral Health Centers, Drug & Alcohol Facilities, Home Health & Community Health, Urgent Care Clinics, and many other provider-based facilities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2000

Social media