Laboratory Animal Caretaker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of scientific research, the role of laboratory animal caretakers is indispensable.

As the field of science continues to advance, the need for compassionate and detail-oriented individuals to provide essential care for laboratory animals grows significantly.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a laboratory animal caretaker?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager envisioning the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of laboratory animal care,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we provide a customizable laboratory animal caretaker job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Laboratory Animal Caretaker Duties and Responsibilities

Laboratory Animal Caretakers are involved in the day-to-day care of animals in a research or laboratory setting.

They ensure the animals’ wellbeing and maintain the health standards required for research.

The duties and responsibilities of a Laboratory Animal Caretaker include:

• Monitor the health and well-being of animals in their care
• Provide food and water to the animals according to schedules
• Administer medications to animals as directed by the veterinarian or scientist
• Clean, disinfect, and maintain animal cages and enclosures
• Observe animals for signs of illness, injury, or unusual behavior, reporting these signs to veterinarians or scientists
• Assist in animal training and behavior conditioning for research purposes
• Maintain records of animal care, diet, and behavior
• Transport animals between facilities or to and from external sites
• Assist in the euthanasia of animals in a humane manner, following established protocols
• Ensure that laboratory animals are treated in accordance with ethical standards and regulations

 

Laboratory Animal Caretaker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a dedicated and compassionate Laboratory Animal Caretaker to join our team.

The Laboratory Animal Caretaker is responsible for the daily care and maintenance of laboratory animals, maintaining a clean and healthy environment for the animals, and assisting scientists with animal-related procedures.

The ideal candidate should possess a strong sense of empathy towards animals, possess good observation skills, and should have knowledge about the basic needs of different species of laboratory animals.

 

Responsibilities

• Feed and water animals according to schedules
• Clean, disinfect, and maintain animal cages and enclosures
• Monitor and document animals’ physical conditions to detect health problems
• Assist in administering medication, vaccines, and treatments prescribed by a veterinarian
• Transport animals between facilities
• Observe animals for signs of illness, disease, or injury and report these to the appropriate personnel
• Assist in the handling of animals during veterinary procedures
• Adhere to all safety policies and procedures when handling animals

 

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Previous experience in animal care or laboratory settings is preferred
• Understanding of animal behavior and animal care basics
• Ability to handle and restrain animals safely
• Good observational and decision-making skills
• Ability to follow strict procedures and schedules
• Knowledge of basic record-keeping procedures

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Laboratory Animal Caretaker
• Work Environment: Laboratory setting. Some physical demands such as lifting and moving animals or supplies may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Laboratory Manager or Animal Care Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $24,000 minimum to $34,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Laboratory Animal Caretaker Do?

Laboratory Animal Caretakers are responsible for the care and maintenance of animals used for research in laboratories.

They typically work in biomedical research facilities, pharmaceutical companies, universities or similar environments.

Their primary tasks involve feeding, watering, and observing the behavior of the animals under their care, which can include a variety of species depending on the laboratory’s focus.

They are responsible for cleaning and disinfecting cages and work areas, and may also be required to sterilize laboratory and surgical equipment.

Furthermore, Laboratory Animal Caretakers assist scientists and researchers in handling animals for procedures and experiments.

They may also be involved in administering medication or vaccinations as directed, and monitoring the animals’ health for any changes.

They follow ethical standards and regulations to ensure the animals’ welfare is prioritized, providing enrichment activities and minimizing any distress or discomfort.

Some caretakers may also be tasked with breeding and raising young animals for future research.

Their role is essential in ensuring the smooth operation of animal-based research, providing vital support to the scientific team.

 

Laboratory Animal Caretaker Qualifications and Skills

A professional Laboratory Animal Caretaker should possess a variety of skills and qualifications, some of which include:

• Understanding of animal behavior and physiology to provide appropriate care for various species.
• Ability to adhere to strict ethical guidelines and regulations pertaining to the care and use of laboratory animals.
• Excellent attention to detail for monitoring and recording animal behavior, health conditions, and responses to treatments.
• Ability to handle animals with care to minimize distress and ensure their well-being.
• Physical stamina to stand for long periods and perform routine tasks, such as cleaning cages and lifting heavy bags of food.
• Interpersonal and communication skills to effectively work in a team and communicate with researchers and veterinarians.
• Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and protocols.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and rectify issues that may arise in animal housing or care.
• Knowledge of health and safety procedures to prevent disease transmission and ensure a clean environment.

 

Laboratory Animal Caretaker Experience Requirements

Individuals interested in becoming a Laboratory Animal Caretaker usually need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some jobs requiring an associate’s degree in fields such as animal science, biology, or veterinary technology.

Experience-wise, entry-level positions may require a minimum of 1-2 years of relevant experience, often earned through internships, part-time roles, or volunteer work at animal shelters, veterinary hospitals, or zoos.

Caretakers with more than 3 years of experience have typically honed their skills in handling a variety of animals, administering medications, monitoring animal behavior, and maintaining cleanliness in animal housing areas.

These professionals may have also gained some proficiency in laboratory procedures and protocols.

Those with 5 or more years of experience are often adept at more complex tasks such as assisting in animal surgeries, collecting specimens, and recording data.

They may have leadership experience, having guided less experienced caretakers, and could be ready for managerial or supervisory roles within the lab environment.

Some institutions may prefer or require Laboratory Animal Caretakers to be certified by a professional organization such as the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science, which requires a certain level of education and experience for different levels of certification.

 

Laboratory Animal Caretaker Education and Training Requirements

Laboratory Animal Caretakers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

They receive on-the-job training to learn how to feed and care for animals, monitor their health, maintain their living environments, and ensure their welfare under laboratory conditions.

This training usually lasts for a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of their tasks.

Some positions may require Laboratory Animal Caretakers to have an associate degree or a certificate in animal science, biology, or a related field.

Such programs provide specialized knowledge in animal anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and animal handling techniques.

Additional certifications, such as the Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT), Laboratory Animal Technician (LAT), and Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG) offered by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS), are often desirable.

These certifications demonstrate a higher level of competence in the field and may lead to advanced job positions.

Moreover, some states may require Laboratory Animal Caretakers to be licensed.

Licensing requirements vary by state but typically include passing a written exam and having a certain amount of work experience.

Continuing education is vital for Laboratory Animal Caretakers to stay current with the latest animal care methods, welfare regulations, and advances in animal science.

 

Laboratory Animal Caretaker Salary Expectations

A Laboratory Animal Caretaker earns an average salary of $29,640 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can fluctuate depending on factors like experience, certification, location, and the employing organization.

 

Laboratory Animal Caretaker Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Laboratory Animal Caretaker need?

Laboratory Animal Caretakers need strong observational skills to monitor the health and behavior of the animals.

They also need to have good physical stamina for cleaning cages and lifting and moving animals.

Attention to detail is necessary to ensure that the animals’ environments are maintained properly.

Caretakers also need to have good interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with colleagues and veterinarians.

 

Do Laboratory Animal Caretakers need a degree?

A specific degree is not typically required for Laboratory Animal Caretakers, although a high school diploma is often necessary.

Some positions may require an associate’s degree in animal science or a related field.

Most of the training is done on the job, under the supervision of a veterinarian or a senior caretaker.

 

What should you look for in a Laboratory Animal Caretaker resume?

A good Laboratory Animal Caretaker resume should demonstrate experience with animal care, ideally in a laboratory setting.

They should have knowledge of animal behavior and their dietary needs.

It is also beneficial if they have a basic understanding of laboratory procedures.

Any certifications, such as the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) certification, would be advantageous.

 

What qualities make a good Laboratory Animal Caretaker?

A good Laboratory Animal Caretaker should be compassionate and patient when dealing with animals.

They should be responsible and dependable to ensure the consistent care of the animals.

Attention to detail is also essential to monitor the health and well-being of animals closely.

Further, good communication skills are important to work effectively within the laboratory team.

 

What are the daily duties of a Laboratory Animal Caretaker?

On a typical day, a Laboratory Animal Caretaker may clean and disinfect cages and enclosures, feed and water animals according to schedules, and monitor animals for signs of illness or distress.

They also may record data regarding animals’ food intake, behavior, and any symptoms of distress or disease.

Caretakers often assist in administering medication or treatments prescribed by a veterinarian.

Additionally, they may help with animal enrichment activities.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a laboratory animal caretaker.

And guess what?

It’s not just about feeding and taking care of the animals.

It’s about shaping the future of scientific research, one animal at a time.

With our detailed laboratory animal caretaker job description template and real-world examples, you’re all geared up to make your move.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step towards creating refined job listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Each animal you care for contributes to the larger scope of scientific advancement.

Let’s nurture that future. Together.

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