Laboratory Animal Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of scientific research, the importance of Laboratory Animal Managers is increasingly evident.

With the advancement of biomedical research and drug discovery, the demand for proficient professionals who can oversee and ensure the ethical and well-structured management of lab animals escalates.

So, what exactly does a Laboratory Animal Manager do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to draft the perfect job description,
• Or simply fascinated by the field of laboratory animal management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a comprehensive Laboratory Animal Manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive into it.

Laboratory Animal Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Laboratory Animal Managers are responsible for overseeing the care and use of animals in a laboratory setting.

They ensure that the laboratory complies with all federal, state, and local animal welfare laws, regulations, and standards.

They also play a key role in research and development projects, particularly those involving animals.

The duties and responsibilities of a Laboratory Animal Manager include:

• Supervising the care, feeding, and handling of animals used in experiments and research
• Overseeing and coordinating the animal health program, including veterinary care and disease prevention and control
• Ensuring compliance with animal welfare laws, regulations, and standards, including those relating to housing, feeding, care, and use of animals
• Implementing and maintaining procedures for animal care, including sanitation, feeding, and enrichment programs
• Assisting in the design and implementation of research projects involving animals
• Providing training and guidance to staff on the proper care and use of animals
• Monitoring the use of anesthetics, analgesics, and euthanasia to ensure they are administered in accordance with established guidelines
• Collaborating with researchers to develop and implement experimental protocols involving animals
• Managing the procurement and breeding of laboratory animals
• Overseeing the maintenance and repair of animal housing facilities

 

Laboratory Animal Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Laboratory Animal Manager to oversee our animal laboratory operations.

This role involves managing the care and use of laboratory animals, ensuring compliance with ethical and regulatory standards, training staff, and participating in research design.

Our ideal candidate is experienced in veterinary medicine, familiar with laboratory procedures, and committed to ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare.

Ultimately, the Laboratory Animal Manager will ensure that all laboratory animals are appropriately cared for and that all operations comply with regulatory guidelines and ethical standards.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of the animal laboratory, including feeding, housing, health monitoring, and record keeping
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal animal welfare regulations
• Develop and implement animal care and use protocols
• Train staff in appropriate animal handling and care techniques
• Consult with researchers on study design to minimize animal use and discomfort
• Oversee procurement and transportation of laboratory animals
• Manage veterinary care for laboratory animals
• Conduct regular inspections of facilities to ensure clean and humane conditions
• Prepare reports for regulatory bodies and institutional committees
• Stay up-to-date with developments in animal welfare and laboratory management

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Laboratory Animal Manager or similar role
• Degree in Veterinary Medicine, Animal Science, or related field
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal animal welfare regulations
• Experience in laboratory animal care and use protocols
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities
• Commitment to animal welfare and ethical research practices
• Professional certifications such as LATG, CMAR, RLAT, or similar are preferred

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Laboratory Animal Manager
• Work Environment: Laboratory setting. This role may involve some physical demands such as lifting and moving equipment or animals.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Laboratory Operations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $100,000 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 Manager Do?

Laboratory Animal Managers are essential personnel in animal research facilities and academic institutions.

They oversee the care and use of animals in research and teaching environments.

Their main responsibilities include managing the day-to-day operations of an animal facility, ensuring that all animals are properly cared for and that their habitats are clean and safe.

This often includes tasks like feeding animals, administering medications, and monitoring their health and behavior.

Laboratory Animal Managers also play a crucial role in the animal research process.

They oversee animal breeding programs, manage animal inventory, and ensure compliance with animal welfare laws and regulations.

This includes creating and implementing policies and procedures to ensure the humane treatment of animals.

They work closely with researchers, veterinarians, and other staff to coordinate animal use in experiments, providing expert advice on animal handling, restraint, and care techniques.

They may also be involved in the training of staff in these areas.

In addition, Laboratory Animal Managers are responsible for maintaining all necessary documentation relating to animal care and use, including health records, breeding records, and regulatory compliance records.

They may also participate in audits and inspections to verify compliance with animal welfare standards.

Overall, the Laboratory Animal Manager’s role is to ensure that the facility’s animal care and use program operates efficiently, ethically, and in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.

 

Laboratory Animal Manager Qualifications and Skills

A qualified Laboratory Animal Manager should possess a range of technical and soft skills that align with the role’s responsibilities, such as:

• Advanced knowledge of animal physiology, biology, and genetics to understand and manage laboratory animals effectively.
• Outstanding organizational skills to manage animal inventories, maintain accurate records, and ensure compliance with regulations and guidelines.
• Excellent communication skills to liaise with research staff, veterinarians, and other team members regarding animal health, welfare, and experimental protocols.
• Problem-solving abilities to address and mitigate any issues related to animal health, behavior, or laboratory processes.
• Understanding of animal ethics and compliance regulations to ensure the humane and ethical treatment of laboratory animals.
• Strong leadership and management skills to supervise and guide the animal care staff effectively.
• Physical stamina to handle and care for animals regularly.
• Technical skills to assist in the development and implementation of animal care programs, and to operate laboratory equipment.

 

Laboratory Animal Manager Experience Requirements

A Laboratory Animal Manager is expected to have a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Biology, or a related field.

They should have a significant amount of hands-on experience, typically of 3 to 5 years, in animal care or a veterinary setting, often achieved through internships or entry-level positions.

A good understanding of animal behavior, biology, and health is crucial in this role.

Experience with handling, feeding, and caring for animals, particularly laboratory animals, is necessary.

Familiarity with animal-related regulations and guidelines is also important.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are typically expected to have some supervisory or managerial experience.

This can be achieved by working as an Animal Technician Supervisor or similar roles where they have overseen the work of technicians and ensured the well-being of laboratory animals.

Advanced roles might require certification as a Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG) from the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS), which requires a combination of work experience and passing an examination.

Those with experience in research projects or in working alongside scientists in a laboratory setting would have an added advantage.

They should be comfortable with using software related to animal management and should have experience in ensuring a safe and clean environment for animals.

 

Laboratory Animal Manager Education and Training Requirements

A Laboratory Animal Manager typically has a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology, animal science, or a related field.

These programs provide a comprehensive understanding of animal care and management, laboratory procedures, regulatory guidelines, and animal diseases.

Many Laboratory Animal Managers also possess a master’s degree in laboratory animal science or a related field, which provides specialized knowledge and can enhance career prospects.

Certification is not always required but is often highly desired by employers.

The American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) provides certification for Laboratory Animal Technicians and Managers.

To be eligible for certification, candidates typically need to have a combination of education and work experience in the field of laboratory animal science.

Continued professional development is also important in this role.

Laboratory Animal Managers must stay updated on the latest research findings, animal care procedures, and regulatory changes.

In addition to formal education, Laboratory Animal Managers need substantial experience working with laboratory animals.

This could include roles such as laboratory animal technician or veterinarian.

This practical experience is crucial for understanding the unique needs and behavior of laboratory animals.

 

Laboratory Animal Manager Salary Expectations

A Laboratory Animal Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $61,612 (USD) per year.

This salary can fluctuate depending on factors such as experience, education, location, and the specific institution they are employed by.

 

Laboratory Animal Manager Job Description FAQs

What educational qualifications does a Laboratory Animal Manager need?

A Laboratory Animal Manager typically requires a bachelor’s degree in animal science, biology, or a related field.

However, some organizations may require a master’s degree or higher.

Additionally, professional certification, like the Certified Manager of Animal Resources (CMAR) credential, may be highly beneficial.

 

What skills are essential for a Laboratory Animal Manager?

Laboratory Animal Managers should have excellent observational skills to detect any signs of illness or distress in animals.

They must possess strong leadership abilities to manage teams and good communication skills to liaise with researchers and staff.

They should have a deep knowledge of animal behavior, physiology, and care.

Also, they need to have sound knowledge of regulatory guidelines related to animal research.

 

What are the primary responsibilities of a Laboratory Animal Manager?

A Laboratory Animal Manager oversees the day-to-day operations of animal facilities.

They are responsible for ensuring the health and well-being of the animals, supervising the staff who care for them, and managing budgets.

They also ensure that all facility operations comply with local, state, and federal regulations and coordinate with researchers on animal-related procedures.

 

What qualities make a good Laboratory Animal Manager?

A good Laboratory Animal Manager must have a strong commitment to animal welfare and an in-depth understanding of ethical considerations regarding animal research.

They must be detail-oriented, organized, and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work well under pressure are also important.

 

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

In a Laboratory Animal Manager’s resume, look for a strong educational background in animal science or a related field.

Valuable experience includes roles in animal care or laboratory settings, with increasing levels of responsibility.

Certifications, like the CMAR credential, are also desirable.

Evidence of leadership, budget management, and familiarity with regulatory compliance is essential.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the intricate details of being a Laboratory Animal Manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about managing animals.

It’s about safeguarding animal welfare and aiding scientific progress, one animal at a time.

With our comprehensive Laboratory Animal Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your tool for creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every task in animal management contributes to a larger purpose.

Let’s advance that future. Together.

How to Become a Laboratory Animal Manager (Complete Guide)

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