Career outlook for animal technician
Figures and forecasts for roles at the same level, which require similar skills and qualifications.
Average UK salary
£14,040
Currently employed in Scotland
6,200
Five year job forecast
+9.96%
"LMI for All" supplies our salary and employment status information. "Oxford Economics" supplies job forecasts and employment figures.
What's it like?
You would care for the animals used in medical or veterinary research. Your work would contribute to research into cures for human and animal diseases.
You'd be responsible for the day-to-day needs of animals such as rats, mice, guinea pigs and rabbits. You'd ensure that their treatment is humane and in accordance with strict legal controls.
You would:
- Give the animals food and water and organise special diets for them
- Make sure that they are comfortable and behave as expected
- Keep the animals and the centre very clean and hygienic
- Carry out regular observations and health checks
- Monitor the weight and growth of animals
- Exercise and train the animals
- Control the heating, lighting and humidity in the centre
You would keep accurate records and input data to computer systems.
You could work in animal research facilities in a:
- University
- Medical and veterinary college
- Drugs company
- Company breeding animals for research
- Commercial research centre
With experience, you could also be involved in helping scientists with experiments, setting up scientific studies and breeding animals.
Cosmetic and tobacco products are not tested on laboratory animals in the UK. You should be aware that some people have very strong feelings about or hostility to vivisection (research carried out on animals).
Working conditions
Hours
Environment
UK employment status
Full-time
54%
Part-time
23%
Self employed
23%
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- Reliable
- Concentrating
- Attention to detail
- Cooperating
- Social conscience
- Empathising
- Observation
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Qualifications
Qualifications at SCQF Level 4-6, and/or a Higher National Certificate (SCQF Level 7), Higher National Diploma (SCQF Level 8) or a work-based qualification such as a Scottish Vocational Qualification in Animal Care (SVQ Level 2/3).
To enter a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in animal care requires two Highers or a relevant NC/NQ.
Useful subjects
Most employers and courses require:
- English
- Maths
- A science subject, in particular biology or chemistry
You will also need
Some employers ask the applicant to have a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Laboratory Animal Science & Technologies.
Helpful to have
Experience in veterinary surgery assistance, lab practice and a knowledge of animal anaesthesia.
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