Animal Care Technician Overview

What does an Animal Care Technician do?

Animal care technicians provide care to animals in kennels, veterinary centers, research laboratories, and other facilities. They ensure the animals receive proper food, shelter, medical care, and human interaction. They may oversee any necessary training or rehabilitation. They are responsible for maintaining a safe, clean, and healthy environment. They monitor the animals’ health and well-being, and provide or facilitate prompt treatment for any medical concerns. They may also perform routine maintenance and cleaning tasks.

Animal care technicians have a high school diploma, although additional training or education is helpful. They often have a background in animal care or training, which may include volunteer work at an animal shelter. They must be knowledgeable about basic animal care. Experience in a veterinary care setting is an advantage.

What responsibilities are common for Animal Care Technician jobs?
  • Ensure OSE standards are maintained in the department.
  • Perform vaccinations, fecal loops, slides, etc. for the veterinarian and/or veterinary technician.
  • Responsible for the welfare of all live animals and merchandise within the department.
  • Bird tasks involve receipt, general care, feeding, inoculations, test bleeding and harvests.
  • Provide basic first aid, administer medications, ensure appropriate amount of food and water, and groom as directed.
  • Refill and restock exam/treatment rooms with appropriate medical supplies and materials.
  • Clean and disinfect areas of the hospital as often as is necessary to maintain high standards of care.
  • Ability to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, and climb as well as manipulate (lift, carry, move) up to 50 pounds.
  • Remove and wash soiled laundry and keep clean laundry stocked.
  • Maintain the cleanliness of the hospital, including kennel area, runs, treatment area, and outside grounds.
  • Notify the Kennel Manager or Supervisor on shift of any unusual medical or behavioral problems.
  • Review, comprehends and complies with all SOPs and quality assurance standards pertaining to specific area.
  • The role may include assistance with basic patient care such as safe restraint of patients during treatment.
  • Operate equipment and uses supplies according to safety guidelines. perform general housekeeping and adheres to safety procedures.
What are the typical qualifications for Animal Care Technician jobs?
  • Associate's Degree in animal sciences.
  • Knowledgeable about sterilization and sanitation procedures.
  • Hands-on experience with animal care including bathing and grooming.
  • Able to display confidence, strong work ethic, and positive attitude.
  • Requires meticulous attention to detail.
  • Familiar with writing protocols.
Education--
Work/Life Balance
2.9 ★
Salary Range--
Career Opportunity
2.8 ★
Avg. Experience8+ years

Animal Care Technician Salaries near Singapore

Average Base Pay

$33,000 /yr
Not including cash compensation
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Glassdoor Estimated Salary

Animal Care Technician Career Path

Learn how to become an Animal Care Technician, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Animal Care Technician

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
5%
2 - 4
4%
5 - 7
0%
8+
91%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Animal Care Technician Insights

Read what Animal Care Technician professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
The Ark Pet Spa & HotelThe Ark Pet Spa & Hotel
Kennel Technician
23 May 2023

“I worked 50+ hrs one week because they can't keep staff cause it is unsafe and horrible management.”

Rivermist Pet LodgeRivermist Pet Lodge
Pet Care Associate
10 May 2022

“things have changed but one of the supervisors were the best and really cared about your well being”

Halo DogsHalo Dogs
Animal Welfare Assistant
13 Sept 2023

“They pay and conditions were the best I’ve experienced in the industry and the personal development opportunities were constant.”

PetsMart GroupPetsMart Group
Pet Care Associate
6 Jan 2023

“Pay is terrible and you will be expected to work well past your job description for pennies.”

Sharelle Clipping Parlour
Animal Care
6 Dec 2021

“I worked on a Saturday from 8am to 12am and earned £25 which was a good pay.”

Jumping Jack Dog RanchJumping Jack Dog Ranch
Kennel Tech
5 Jul 2023

“Culture is fun and they don’t make you lie to owners if a dog is unhappy.”

VCAVCA
Kennel Technician
28 Jul 2021

“Opportunities to work with veterinarians and vet techs to have a better understanding of the industry.”

VCAVCA
Animal Care Attendant
9 Feb 2022

“Wages are calculated (there's a formula) based on your resume vs negotiated based on skill or competence.”

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Animal Care Technician Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of an Animal Care Technician

The most similar professions to Animal Care Technician are:
  • Veterinarian
  • Veterinary Technician
  • Pet Groomer
  • Pet Trainer

Related Careers

Veterinarian
$33,400
No skills overlap
Veterinary Technician
No skills overlap
Pet Groomer
Pet Trainer

Animal Care Technician jobs