Animal Technician
Note: Completion of a TAFE SA course does not guarantee an employment outcome. Formal requirements other than educational qualifications (eg licensing, professional registration), may apply to some occupations.
| Job Prospects |
Good employment in this occupation is expected and will grow into 2014 - 2015. |
| Salary Range |
$40,000 to $70,000 |
| Brief |
Animal technicians help veterinary, medical, pharmaceutical, agricultural and general scientists and students to care for and check on animals used for research, breeding and scientific purposes. |
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TAFE SA courses that may be relevant for: Animal Technician
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Education Requirements
TAFE SA offers the Diploma of Animal Technology to help you find employment in this occupation. Intending students could consider pathway from school by attempting the Certificate I in Animal Studies or enrolling through SATAC in the Certificate II in Animal Studies through TAFE SA.
Career Path
Animal technicians are employed by universities, hospitals, government research institutions, zoos, private companies and veterinary practices.
Nature of the Job
Animal Technicians may perform the following tasks:
Check and record, on a daily basis, the health status and behaviour of animals in their care;
Prepare food and water and provide care for laboratory, field or zoo animals;
Maintain zoo exhibits, holding or breeding areas and equipment;
Assist in research using animals, recording the results under supervision and according to relevant codes of practice, and the organisation's animal ethics committee rules;
Take samples of animal body fluids, faeces or tissue for analysis or veterinary inspection;
Inspect and test animals for worm infestation and disease;
Observe animals' reactions in research projects;
Make routine calculations and prepare graphs;
Clean and disinfect cages and facilities, and sterilise equipment;
Establish and maintain breeding programs;
Help with injections, surgery, dressings and care of animals after operations;
Assist in anaesthesia, monitoring and recovery;
Assist with the development and conduct of animal experimentation protocols;
Humanely put animals down and/or handle animals that have died;
Participate in embryo transfer procedures;
Carry out post-mortem examinations on dead animals.
Typical Physical Working Environment
Suitable for those who enjoy practical activities.
Intending animal technicians should be free from allergies aggravated by animal hair, feathers, fur and dust.
Need to be able to undertake manual and sometimes heavy work
Earning Potential
$40,000 to 70,0000
Further Information
For further information about all TAFE SA Courses, phone 1800 882 661 or enquire online