Career Outlook dot US

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in The United States

(Asistentes de veterinaria y cuidadores de animales de laboratorio)

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 post-operative 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.

SOC (Standard Occupational Classification)31-9096.00
Career InterestsRSI
Minimum education required(High school)
High school diploma or equivalent
Minimum work experience required(None)
None
Job training required(Short OJT)
Short-term on-the-job training
Growth Outlook (projected percentage growth in jobs per year from 2018-2028)1.91 (moderate growth)
Current number of workers in USA (2018)92,200
Projected number of workers in USA (2028)109,800
Average Annual Openings in USA (2018-2028)18,100
 
Average entry-level annual salary in USA (2019)$20,790
Average annual salary for all workers in USA (2019)$29,690
Average experienced-worker annual salary for all workers in USA (2019)$39,800
Career ClusterAgriculture, Food and Natural Resources
(Agricultura, alimento y recursos naturales)
Major Occupational GroupHealthcare Support

* data not available
Salaries over $208,000 are sometimes shown as >$208,000 rather than the actual salary.


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Occupational Outlook Handbook logo  Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers
The Occupational Outlook Handbook from the US Department of Labor includes: Nature of the Work; Working Conditions; Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement; Employment; Job Outlook; Earnings; Related Occupations; and Additional Information.


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