What Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Do
Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers handle routine animal care and help scientists, veterinarians, and others with their daily tasks.
Work Environment
Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers work mainly in clinics, animal hospitals, and research laboratories. Their work may be physically and emotionally demanding.
How to Become a Veterinary Assistant or Laboratory Animal Caretaker
Most veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers have a high school diploma or equivalent and learn the occupation on the job.
Pay
The median annual wage for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers was $29,930 in May 2020.
Job Outlook
Employment of veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers is projected to grow 16 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. High turnover should result in good job opportunities.
State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers.
Similar Occupations
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More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.