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Veterinary Research Assistant Jobs in California

RPM ReSearch

Veterinary Research Scientist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K/yr

Veterinary Research Scientist Primary Responsibilities: This position requires a broad knowledge of ... Make recommendations and assist in establishing and enhancing veterinary and animal care standards

Animal Dermatology Group

Veterinary Assistant

Tustin, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

... clinical practice, research and education in our field. In additional to providing advanced ... Animal Dermatology Clinic - Tustin is seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant. We are looking ...

Animal Dermatology Clinic

Veterinary Assistant

Tustin, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

... clinical practice, research and education in our field. In additional to providing advanced ... Animal Dermatology Clinic - Tustin is seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant. We are looking ...

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Veterinary Research Assistant information

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How much do veterinary research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary research assistant in California is $17.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a veterinary research assistant?

A Veterinary Research Assistant supports veterinary scientists in conducting research related to animal health, diseases, and treatments. They assist with laboratory tests, data collection, and the care of research animals. Their responsibilities may also include administering medications, monitoring animal behavior, and maintaining detailed records. This role requires knowledge of animal handling, laboratory techniques, and research protocols. Veterinary Research Assistants often work in universities, research institutions, or pharmaceutical companies.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a veterinary research assistant?

As a Veterinary Research Assistant, your daily tasks often involve assisting with animal care, conducting laboratory experiments, collecting and recording data, and helping maintain the cleanliness and safety of the research environment. You may work closely with veterinarians, scientists, and other research staff, preparing samples, monitoring animal health, and ensuring ethical treatment of all animals in your care. Administrative duties such as entering experimental results into databases and maintaining detailed records are also common. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as you'll frequently collaborate with colleagues to support ongoing research projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a veterinary research assistant position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Veterinary Research Assistant, you typically need a background in animal science or biology, laboratory experience, and an understanding of animal care and research methodology. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, animal handling protocols, and data management systems is highly valued, and some employers may prefer candidates with certifications in animal research or lab safety. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for this position. These skills ensure accurate data collection, proper animal welfare, and efficient collaboration with veterinary researchers and laboratory teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary Research jobs in California?

The most popular types of Veterinary Research jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Veterinary Research Assistant jobs in California?

For Veterinary Research Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Veterinary Research Assistant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Veterinary Research Assistant jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Veterinary Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Veterinary Research Assistant job openings:

Veterinary Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Research Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,390 per year, or $17 per hour.

Veterinary Research Scientist

RPM ReSearch

San Diego, CA • On-site

$80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Veterinary Research Scientist


Primary Responsibilities:

This position requires a broad knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of small and large animals to help develop and support in vivo models to screen therapeutics and devices being developed for various disorders. Experience with surgical, dosing and sampling techniques is required. In addition, the Veterinary Scientist is responsible for assisting in the clinical care of animals on surgical studies including post-operative monitoring and evaluations. 


Principal Duties and Responsibilities 

  • Perform surgical support and provide anesthesia, surgical, and analgesic technical expertise/advice to facilitate protocol development. 

  • Provide clinical and technical support to internal and external customers, regarding surgical models and services. 

  • Serve as the Research Lead or Study Director responsible for preclinical studies in various species. 

  • Assist in the preparation and review of study protocols and reports. 

  • Provide support for activities of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), including protocol review, program review, and facility inspections. 

  • Assist in activities to ensure the facility is in compliance with all applicable regulations, guidelines, and standards that relate to animal care and use. (USDA, FDA, and AALAC)

  • Train staff on in-vivo procedures

  • Make recommendations and assist in establishing and enhancing veterinary and animal care standards

  • Will administer controlled substances and be responsible for maintaining appropriate records. 

  • May develop new or innovative surgical techniques or other procedural improvements appropriate to research studies. 

  • Perform special projects and assist with administrative efforts as needed. 


Candidate Requirements: 

  • 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 be flexible to work various schedules and hours as well as provide comprehensive, after hours, and on-call coverage as needed. 

  • This position requires good communication skills and attention to detail. 

  • Strong work ethic, self-motivation, and the ability to adapt to a dynamic team/work environment are keys to success. 


Education:

  • Degree in veterinary medicine (BVM, DVM, or VMD) preferred. 

  • Graduate-level degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in pharmaceutical science, life sciences, or pharmacology considered. 

Experience: 

  • Minimum 5-7 years of relevant industry experience depending on education level. 

  • Experience working with both small and large animals preferred. 

  • Working knowledge of imaging modalities (TEE, C-arm) will be a plus

  • A comprehensive understanding of the requirements for GLP study execution and documentation is required.