Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers
Feed, water, and examine pets and other nonfarm animals for signs of illness, disease, or injury in laboratories and animal hospitals and clinics. Clean and disinfect cages and work areas, and sterilize laboratory and surgical equipment. May provide routine postoperative care, administer medication orally or topically, or prepare samples for laboratory examination under the supervision of veterinary or laboratory animal technologists or technicians, veterinarians, or scientists.
Common Job Titles
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onPerform animal feeding, watering, and routine physical care procedures in veterinary clinics and laboratory settings, following established protocols.Developing
- KnowledgeIdentify signs of illness, disease, or injury in animals through systematic observation and monitoring, under veterinary supervision.Developing
- Hands-onOperate sterilization equipment including steam autoclaves and chemical sterilizers to clean and disinfect surgical instruments and laboratory equipment.Developing
- Hands-onPerform medication administration via oral and topical routes following veterinary instructions and dosage protocols.Developing
- Hands-onHandle biological specimens including blood, urine, and tissue samples using proper collection techniques and laboratory safety procedures.Developing
- KnowledgeApply animal restraint and handling techniques to ensure safety of animals, staff, and clients during examinations and procedures.Developing
- KnowledgeDiscuss animal care instructions and postoperative care procedures with pet owners in clinical settings, using clear and empathetic communication.Developing
- KnowledgeDemonstrate veterinary medical records and documentation procedures using practice management software and maintaining accurate patient files.Developing
- Hands-onExecute cage cleaning and facility sanitation protocols maintaining hygienic work environments in animal hospitals and research facilities.Developing
- MindsetEngage with distressed animals and concerned pet owners demonstrating patience, empathy, and service-oriented care.Developing
- Hands-onOperate diagnostic equipment including microscopes, thermometers, and scales to assist veterinary technicians and veterinarians with patient assessment.Developing
- KnowledgeDemonstrate time management and task prioritization skills when coordinating multiple animal care responsibilities in fast-paced clinical environments.Developing
Annual wage data for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
114,190
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $29,160 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $48,150 |
| Workers on average earn | $38,990 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.3/5
- English Language3.8/5
- Biology3.6/5
- Administrative3.5/5
- Medicine and Dentistry3.5/5
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings