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  3. Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Prospects: Favorable

*According to projected annual openings and year-over-year growth
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. Excludes "Nonfarm Animal Caretakers" (39-2021).

Current openings

Laboratory Animal Caretaker 2
Veterinarian Assistant 2
Veterinary Attendant 4

Number of positions

2012: 530    2014: 540

Annual job postings

New: 10    Replacement: 10
(Total: 20)   

Salaries in NYC

Starting at:
$25,170
($12/hour)
Middle:
$30,940
($14/hour)
Up to:
$37,510
($18/hour)
Average:
$33,400
($16/hour)

Educational requirements

Minimum education:
High school diploma or equivalent

Work experience:
None

On-the-job training:
Short-term on-the-job training

Education level achieved by workers

 

Sources: New York State Department of Labor, U.S. Department of Labor.