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 postoperative 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.

Tasks Include:

Monitor animals recovering from surgery and notify veterinarians of any unusual changes or symptoms.
Clean, maintain, and sterilize instruments or equipment.
Administer medication, immunizations, or blood plasma to animals as prescribed by veterinarians.
Provide emergency first aid to sick or injured animals.
Clean and maintain kennels, animal holding areas, examination or operating rooms, or animal loading or unloading facilities to control the spread of disease.
Hold or restrain animals during veterinary procedures.
Perform routine laboratory tests or diagnostic tests, such as taking or developing x-rays.
Fill medication prescriptions.
Collect laboratory specimens, such as blood, urine, or feces, for testing.
Examine animals to detect behavioral changes or clinical symptoms that could indicate illness or injury.
Assist veterinarians in examining animals to determine the nature of illnesses or injuries.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™; US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet291)

Projections Quick View:

Virginia: +26.8%

National: +19.4%

Education

High School Diploma

Job Zone:

Two: Some Preparation Needed

Income Range:

Moderately High ($36,000 - $49,999)

Median Earnings:

National

$36,440.00

State

$34,950.00

Regional

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Description

Career Cluster:

Health Science

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Education

Required Level of Education

High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for example, GED) = 78.23%
Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in agriculture or natural resources, computer services, personal or culinary services, engineering technologies, healthcare, construction trades, mechanic and repair technologies, or precision production) = 10.89%
Less than a High School Diploma = 6.44%
Some College Courses = 3.67%
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate - awarded for completion of an organized program of study; designed for people who have completed a Baccalaureate degree but do not meet the requirements of academic degrees carrying the title of Master. = 0.45%
Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree) = 0.31%

Related Work Experience

None = 35.18%
Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 24.75%
Up to and including 1 month = 12.67%
Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years = 9.66%
Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 8.78%
Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 5.51%
Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 2.94%
Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 0.51%

On-Site or In-Plant Training

None = 34.56%
Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 21.98%
Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 20.51%
Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 14.46%
Up to and including 1 month = 8.48%

On-the-Job Training

Anything beyond short demonstration, up to and including 1 month = 34.98%
Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 32.38%
Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 20.32%
Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 7.75%
Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 2.74%
None or short demonstration = 1.84%

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Tasks

Core Tasks Include:

Monitor animals recovering from surgery and notify veterinarians of any unusual changes or symptoms.
Clean, maintain, and sterilize instruments or equipment.
Administer medication, immunizations, or blood plasma to animals as prescribed by veterinarians.
Provide emergency first aid to sick or injured animals.
Clean and maintain kennels, animal holding areas, examination or operating rooms, or animal loading or unloading facilities to control the spread of disease.
Hold or restrain animals during veterinary procedures.
Perform routine laboratory tests or diagnostic tests, such as taking or developing x-rays.
Fill medication prescriptions.
Collect laboratory specimens, such as blood, urine, or feces, for testing.
Examine animals to detect behavioral changes or clinical symptoms that could indicate illness or injury.
Assist veterinarians in examining animals to determine the nature of illnesses or injuries.
Prepare surgical equipment and pass instruments or materials to veterinarians during surgical procedures.
Perform enemas, catheterizations, ear flushes, intravenous feedings, or gavages.
Prepare feed for animals according to specific instructions, such as diet lists or schedules.
Exercise animals or provide them with companionship.
Record information relating to animal genealogy, feeding schedules, appearance, behavior, or breeding.
Educate or advise clients on animal health care, nutrition, or behavior problems.
Perform hygiene-related duties, such as clipping animals' claws or cleaning and polishing teeth.
Prepare examination or treatment rooms by stocking them with appropriate supplies.
Provide assistance with euthanasia of animals or disposal of corpses.
Perform office reception duties, such as scheduling appointments or helping customers.
Dust, spray, or bathe animals to control insect pests.
Write reports, maintain research information, or perform clerical duties.
Perform accounting duties, such as bookkeeping, billing customers for services, or maintaining inventories.
Sell pet food or supplies to customers.
Place orders to restock inventory of hospital or laboratory supplies.

Supplemental Tasks Include:

Administer anesthetics during surgery and monitor the effects on animals.
Groom, trim, or clip animals' coats.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Tools and Technology

Tools Include:

Veterinary nail trimmers or cutters (Animal nail clippers)
Animal shearing or clipping equipment (Animal razors)
Animal catching devices (Animal restraints)
Veterinary injection or suction units or accessories (Balling guns)
Bandage scissors or its supplies (Bandage scissors)
Benchtop centrifuges
Protective gloves (Bite gloves)
Blood collection syringes
Chemical or gas sterilizers (Chemical sterilizers)
Clothes dryers (Commercial dryers)
Laundry type washing machines (Commercial washing machines)
Desktop computers
Digital cameras
Veterinary clinical thermometers (Digital veterinary thermometers)
Medical x ray units for general diagnostic use (Digital veterinary x ray equipment)
Animal shearing or clipping equipment (Electric animal clippers)
Animal weighing scales (Electronic animal scales)
Vacuum blood collection tubes or containers (Evacuated blood collection tubes)
Multipurpose or general test tubes (General purpose laboratory test tubes)
Laboratory beakers (Glass beakers)
Handheld refractometers or polarimeters (Handheld refractometers)
Hematology analyzers
Veterinary injection or suction units or accessories (Injection syringes)
Intravenous tubing with catheter administration kits (Intravenous IV administration sets)
Label making machines (Label printers)
Laboratory forceps
Notebook computers (Laptop computers)
Medical radiological shielding aprons or masks or drapes (Lead aprons)
Medical radiological shielding gloves (Lead gloves)
Mechanical stethoscopes or accessories (Mechanical stethoscopes)
Bar code reader equipment (Microchip readers)
Microcentrifuges (Microhematocrit centrifuges)
Microscope slides
Special purpose telephones (Multi-line telephone systems)
Muzzles
Binocular light compound microscopes (Optical compound microscopes)
Personal computers
Tablet counters (Pill counters)
Specimen collectors (Specimen collection containers)
Medical x ray units for general diagnostic use (Stationary veterinary x ray equipment)
Steam autoclaves or sterilizers (Steam autoclaves)
Suture removers (Suture scissors)
Tourniquets
Urinalysis analyzers (Urine analysis equipment)
Urinalysis analyzers (Urinometers)
Anesthesia sets or kits (Veterinary anesthesia machines)
Veterinary blood pressure testers (Veterinary blood pressure cuffs)
Full body immersion hydrotherapy baths or tanks (Veterinary immersion hydrotherapy equipment)
Veterinary injection or suction units or accessories (Veterinary vaccination syringes)
Medical x ray film or cassettes for general use (X ray cassettes)
Medical x ray darkroom equipment or supplies (X ray film processors)

Technologies Include:

Calendar and scheduling software

Scheduling software

Data base user interface and query software

Microsoft Access

Label making software

Labeling software

Medical software

IDEXX Laboratories IDEXX Cornerstone
McAllister Software Systems AVImark
Practice management software PMS

Office suite software

Microsoft Office software

Spreadsheet software

Microsoft Excel

Word processing software

Microsoft Word

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Special Requirements

Requirements for licensure by examination as a veterinary technician:

A. The applicant, in order to be licensed by the board as a veterinary technician, shall:

1. Have received a degree in veterinary technology from a college or school accredited by the AVMA.

2. Have filed with the board the following documents:

a. A complete and notarized application on a form obtained from the board;

b. An official copy, indicating a veterinary technology degree, of the applicant's college or school transcript; and

c. Certification that the applicant is in good standing by each board from which the applicant holds a license, certification or registration to practice veterinary technology.

3. Pass a board-approved, national board examination for veterinary technology with a score acceptable to the board.

4. Sign a statement attesting that the applicant has read, understands, and will abide by the statutes and regulations governing veterinary practice in Virginia.

B. The application for licensure shall be valid for a period of one year after the date of initial submission.

Requirements for licensure by endorsement as a veterinarian or veterinary technician:

A. The board may, in its discretion, grant a license by endorsement to an applicant who is licensed to practice veterinary medicine or who is licensed, certified or registered to practice as a veterinary technician in another state, the District of Columbia or possessions or territories of the United States, provided that:

1. All licenses, certificates or registrations are in good standing;

2. The applicant has been regularly engaged in clinical practice for at least two of the past four years; and

3. The applicant has met all applicable requirements of 18VAC150-20-110 or 18VAC150-20-115, except foreign-trained veterinarians who have attained specialty recognition by a board recognized by the AVMA are exempt from the requirements of ECFVG or any other substantially equivalent credentialing body as determined by the board.

B. Provided that the applicant has met the requirements of subsection A of this section, the board may, in its discretion, waive the requirement that the applicant pass the national board exam or the clinical competency test, or both.

Required Fees:

The following fees shall be in effect:

Veterinary initial license or renewal (active)

$135

Veterinary license renewal (inactive)

$65

Veterinary reinstatement of expired license

$175

Veterinary license late renewal

$45

Veterinarian reinstatement after disciplinary action

$300

Veterinary technician initial license or renewal

$30

Veterinary technician license renewal (inactive)

$15

Veterinary technician license late renewal

$15

Veterinary technician reinstatement of expired license

$50

Veterinary technician reinstatement after disciplinary action

$75

Initial veterinary establishment permit registration

$200

Equine dental technician initial registration

$100

Equine dental technician registration renewal

$50

Equine dental technician late renewal

$20

Equine dental technician reinstatement

$120

Veterinary establishment renewal

$140

Veterinary establishment late renewal

$45

Veterinary establishment reinstatement

$100

Veterinary establishment reinspection

$200

Veterinary establishment -- change of location

$200

Veterinary establishment -- change of veterinarian-in-charge

$30

Duplicate license

$10

Duplicate wall certificate

$25

Returned check

$35

Licensure verification to another jurisdiction

$15

For More Information, Contact:

Virginia Department Of Health Professions
Board Of Veterinary Medicine
6603 West Broad St., 5th Floor
Richmond, VA 23230-1712
Phone: 804.662.9915
TTY: 804.662.7197
Fax: 804.662.7098
http://www.dhp.virginia.gov/vet/

The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Career VIEW Research. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Additional Resources

American Veterinary Medical Association
1931 N. Meachan Road, Suite 100
Schaumberg, IL 60173-4360
Tel: (847) 925-8070 Fax: (847) 925-1329

Printed Occupational Information Available Upon Written Request.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Career VIEW Research. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Knowledge

%	Subject	Description
83.25	Customer and Personal Service	Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
70.75	English Language	Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
64.00	Biology	Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
62.75	Administrative	Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
62.50	Medicine and Dentistry	Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
54.50	Computers and Electronics	Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Skills

%	Subject	Description
62.50	Active Listening	Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
56.25	Critical Thinking	Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
53.00	Reading Comprehension	Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
53.00	Writing	Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
53.00	Monitoring	Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
53.00	Service Orientation	Actively looking for ways to help people.
50.00	Speaking	Talking to others to convey information effectively.
50.00	Social Perceptiveness	Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
50.00	Coordination	Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
50.00	Time Management	Managing one's own time and the time of others.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Abilities

%	Subject	Description
59.50	Oral Comprehension	The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
59.50	Oral Expression	The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
56.25	Written Expression	The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
56.25	Information Ordering	The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
56.25	Problem Sensitivity	The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
53.00	Manual Dexterity	The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
53.00	Near Vision	The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
53.00	Deductive Reasoning	The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
50.00	Written Comprehension	The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
50.00	Selective Attention	The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
50.00	Arm-Hand Steadiness	The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
50.00	Inductive Reasoning	The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
50.00	Finger Dexterity	The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
50.00	Trunk Strength	The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
50.00	Extent Flexibility	The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
50.00	Speech Clarity	The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
50.00	Multilimb Coordination	The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
50.00	Flexibility of Closure	The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
50.00	Speech Recognition	The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Work Activities

%	Subject	Description
90.25	Documenting/Recording Information	Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
86.75	Performing General Physical Activities	Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
84.75	Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates	Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
81.25	Assisting and Caring for Others	Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
79.75	Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings	Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
78.50	Getting Information	Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
77.50	Making Decisions and Solving Problems	Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
74.75	Handling and Moving Objects	Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
74.00	Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events	Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
74.00	Performing for or Working Directly with the Public	Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
73.50	Working with Computers	Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
69.25	Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work	Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
68.50	Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others	Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
68.25	Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials	Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
66.25	Selling or Influencing Others	Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
65.25	Controlling Machines and Processes	Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
65.00	Processing Information	Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
63.75	Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships	Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
62.00	Training and Teaching Others	Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
61.75	Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge	Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
61.00	Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others	Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
60.75	Scheduling Work and Activities	Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
59.50	Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards	Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
56.25	Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information	Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
54.00	Analyzing Data or Information	Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
54.00	Developing and Building Teams	Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
52.75	Communicating with People Outside the Organization	Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
52.50	Performing Administrative Activities	Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
51.50	Coaching and Developing Others	Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
50.75	Thinking Creatively	Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Work Styles

%	Subject	Description
91.50	Dependability	Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
88.25	Integrity	Job requires being honest and ethical.
86.75	Attention to Detail	Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
85.75	Self-Control	Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
84.00	Cooperation	Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
83.25	Persistence	Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
82.25	Stress Tolerance	Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
80.00	Concern for Others	Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
78.25	Achievement/Effort	Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
76.25	Initiative	Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
74.00	Adaptability/Flexibility	Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
73.50	Social Orientation	Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.
70.50	Leadership	Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
59.75	Independence	Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
54.50	Analytical Thinking	Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Work Values

%	Subject	Description
72.17	Relationships	Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
66.67	Support	Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Work Context

%	Subject	Description
98.60	Indoors, Environmentally Controlled	How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
95.60	Spend Time Standing	How much does this job require standing?
94.00	Importance of Being Exact or Accurate	How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
90.40	Face-to-Face Discussions	How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
89.60	Contact With Others	How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
88.20	Exposed to Disease or Infections	How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?
88.00	Telephone	How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
87.60	Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets	How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets?
87.00	Physical Proximity	To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
86.00	Work With Work Group or Team	How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
85.20	Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings	How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?
83.60	Frequency of Decision Making	How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?
83.40	Exposed to Contaminants	How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
83.00	Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable	How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?
81.80	Spend Time Walking and Running	How much does this job require walking and running?
80.00	Importance of Repeating Same Tasks	How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job?
79.40	Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results	What results do your decisions usually have on other people or the image or reputation or financial resources of your employer?
78.40	Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls	How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?
75.60	Time Pressure	How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
75.40	Exposed to Radiation	How often does this job require exposure to radiation?
75.00	Consequence of Error	How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
74.60	Deal With External Customers	How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?
74.20	Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection	How much does this job require wearing specialized protective or safety equipment such as breathing apparatus, safety harness, full protection suits, or radiation protection?
72.80	Electronic Mail	How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
71.60	Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions	How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?
71.20	Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling	How much does this job require kneeling, crouching, stooping or crawling?
70.20	Structured versus Unstructured Work	To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?
69.20	Coordinate or Lead Others	How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
69.20	Freedom to Make Decisions	How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
66.40	Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body	How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?
66.20	Responsibility for Outcomes and Results	How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
65.20	Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions	How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
64.80	Frequency of Conflict Situations	How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
63.40	Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People	How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements?
60.60	Responsible for Others' Health and Safety	How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
60.60	Letters and Memos	How often does the job require written letters and memos?
59.80	Exposed to Hazardous Conditions	How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?
53.20	Outdoors, Exposed to Weather	How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?
52.20	Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance	How much does this job require keeping or regaining your balance?
50.80	Level of Competition	To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Job Zone Two: Some Preparation Needed

Overall Experience
- Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
Job Training
- Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Examples
- These occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include orderlies, counter and rental clerks, customer service representatives, security guards, upholsterers, tellers, and dental laboratory technicians.
Education
- These occupations usually require a high school diploma.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Earnings Benefits*

Region	Entry Level	Median	Experienced
United States	$28,550.00	$36,440.00	$42,290.00
Virginia	$28,700.00	$34,950.00	$37,680.00

Region	Entry Level	Median	Experienced
Alexandria/Arlington	$34,200.00	$37,200.00	$41,640.00
Bay Consortium	$30,190.00	$36,510.00	$41,100.00
Capital Region Workforce Partnership	$29,450.00	$33,830.00	$36,910.00
Central VA/Region2000	$27,790.00	$29,080.00	$33,030.00
Crater Area	No Data	No Data	No Data
Greater Peninsula	No Data	No Data	No Data
Hampton Roads	$28,830.00	$30,390.00	$34,690.00
New River/Mt. Rogers	$27,950.00	$31,840.00	$35,730.00
Northern Virginia	$33,860.00	$37,410.00	$42,590.00
Piedmont Workforce	$29,500.00	$35,290.00	$38,460.00
Shenandoah Valley	$28,470.00	$31,070.00	$35,780.00
South Central	$28,630.00	$32,190.00	$35,000.00
Southwestern Virginia	$28,240.00	$30,190.00	$32,640.00
West Piedmont	$27,540.00	$29,530.00	$32,560.00
Western Virginia	$27,240.00	$28,700.00	$32,740.00

* Earnings Calculations:

Regional Earnings:
   Entry = Annual mean of the lower 1/3 wage distribution;
   Experienced = Annual mean of the upper 2/3 wage distribution.

National and State Earnings:
   Entry = Annual 10th percentile wage;
   Experienced = Annual 75th percentile wage.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Employment Projections

USA: 2023-2033

Virginia: 2022-2032

Regions: 2020-2030

	Current	Projected	% Change
United States	118,200	141,100	+19.4%
Virginia	3,957	5,018	+26.8%

Region	Current*	Projected	% Change
Alexandria/Arlington	No Data	No Data	No Data
Bay Consortium	No Data	No Data	No Data
Capital Region Workforce Partnership	No Data	No Data	No Data
Central VA/Region2000	No Data	No Data	No Data
Crater Area	No Data	No Data	No Data
Greater Peninsula	No Data	No Data	No Data
Hampton Roads	No Data	No Data	No Data
New River/Mt. Rogers	No Data	No Data	No Data
Northern Virginia	No Data	No Data	No Data
Piedmont Workforce	No Data	No Data	No Data
Shenandoah Valley	No Data	No Data	No Data
South Central	No Data	No Data	No Data
Southwestern Virginia	No Data	No Data	No Data
West Piedmont	No Data	No Data	No Data
Western Virginia	No Data	No Data	No Data

* - Estimated

The data sources for the information displayed here include: US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Related Occupations

The related occupations here have similar general capabilities and interests; career explorers may also be interested in the related occupations:

Careers in Support Services Pathway:

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

View Videos

CareerOneStop Video

View Video & Transcript on CareerOneStop

CareerOneStop Health Science Videos
Overview
Occupations

The data sources for the information displayed here include: New York State Department of Labor; New Jersey Department of Labor; California Occupational Information Coordinating Committee; CareerOneStop. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Military Training

The following military job classifications are available for this occupation:

Veterinary Medicine

The data sources for the information displayed here include: Defense Manpower Data Center. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Proficiency Ratings

These proficiencies are scored on a scale from 1 to 5 with 1 being not
important to the job and 5 being extremely important to the job.

Proficiency	Rating
Documenting/Recording Information	4.5
Performing General Physical Activities	4.5
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates	4.5
Assisting and Caring for Others	4.5
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings	4.0
Getting Information	4.0
Making Decisions and Solving Problems	4.0
Handling and Moving Objects	4.0
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events	4.0
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public	4.0
Working with Computers	4.0
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work	4.0
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others	3.5
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials	3.5
Selling or Influencing Others	3.5
Controlling Machines and Processes	3.5
Processing Information	3.5
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships	3.5
Training and Teaching Others	3.5
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge	3.5
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others	3.5
Scheduling Work and Activities	3.5
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards	3.5
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information	3.5
Analyzing Data or Information	3.0
Developing and Building Teams	3.0
Communicating with People Outside the Organization	3.0
Performing Administrative Activities	3.0
Coaching and Developing Others	3.0
Thinking Creatively	3.0
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People	3.0
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others	3.0
Monitoring and Controlling Resources	3.0
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others	2.5
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates	2.5
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment	2.5
Developing Objectives and Strategies	2.5
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment	2.5
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment	2.0
Staffing Organizational Units	2.0
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment	2.0

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Titles

Animal Care Provider
Animal Care Service Worker
Animal Care Taker
Animal Caregiver
Animal Health Technician
Avian Keeper
Emergency Veterinary Assistant
Groomer
Kennel Assistant
Kennel Attendant
Kennel Help
Kennel Technician
Kennel Worker
Laboratory Animal Caretaker
Large Animal Care Technician
Research Animal Attendant
Small Animal Caretaker
Veterinarian Assistant
Veterinarian Helper
Veterinarian Technician
Veterinary Assistant (VA)
Veterinary Assistant (Vet Assistant)
Veterinary Attendant
Veterinary Surgery Technician
Veterinary Technician (Vet Tech)

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Related Schools

Blue Ridge Community College
Northern Virginia Community College
Patrick & Henry Community College
Tidewater Community College

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)