31-9096.00 - Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Updated 2010

Details Report for:
31-9096.00 - 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 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.

Sample of reported job titles: Veterinary Assistant (Vet Assistant), Veterinary Technician (Vet Tech), Veterinary Assistant (VA), Kennel Technician, Veterinarian Assistant, Kennel Assistant, Groomer, Animal Caregiver, Animal Care Provider, Kennel Attendant

View report: Summary Details Custom

Tasks Save Table (XLS/CSV)

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

Tools & Technology Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Tools used in this occupation:

Animal shearing or clipping equipment — Animal razors; Electric animal clippers

Bar code reader equipment — Microchip readers

Chemical or gas sterilizers — Chemical sterilizers

Medical radiological shielding aprons or masks or drapes — Lead aprons

Medical x ray film or cassettes for general use — X ray cassettes

Medical x ray units for general diagnostic use — Digital veterinary x ray equipment; Stationary veterinary x ray equipment

Microcentrifuges — Microhematocrit centrifuges

Microscope slides

Multipurpose or general test tubes — General purpose laboratory test tubes

Muzzles

Urinalysis analyzers — Urine analysis equipment; Urinometers

Veterinary blood pressure testers — Veterinary blood pressure cuffs

Veterinary injection or suction units or accessories — Balling guns; Injection syringes; Veterinary vaccination syringes

Technology used in this occupation:

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

See all 53 T2 categories

Knowledge Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Knowledge
79		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.
61		English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
55		Biology — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
52		Clerical — Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
51		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.
48		Chemistry — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
46		Education and Training — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
46		Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
41		Sales and Marketing — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
40		Computers and Electronics — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
34		Administration and Management — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
32		Psychology — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
32		Public Safety and Security — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
31		Communications and Media — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
30		Mechanical — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
30		Personnel and Human Resources — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
28		Physics — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub- atomic structures and processes.
26		Law and Government — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
26		Therapy and Counseling — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
25		Telecommunications — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
20		Economics and Accounting — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
18		Engineering and Technology — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
17		Sociology and Anthropology — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures and their history and origins.
16		Food Production — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
16		Transportation — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
15		Production and Processing — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
12		Building and Construction — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
12		Foreign Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
11		Design — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
10		Geography — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
9		Fine Arts — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
8		Philosophy and Theology — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
5		History and Archeology — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.

Skills Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Skill
60		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		Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
53		Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
50		Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
50		Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
50		Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people.
50		Social Perceptiveness — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
47		Coordination — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
47		Science — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
44		Active Learning — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
44		Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
44		Instructing — Teaching others how to do something.
44		Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
44		Time Management — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
44		Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
38		Mathematics — Using mathematics to solve problems.
38		Operations Analysis — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
35		Learning Strategies — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
35		Negotiation — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
31		Operation Monitoring — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
31		Persuasion — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
28		Management of Personnel Resources — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
28		Systems Analysis — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
25		Quality Control Analysis — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
22		Management of Financial Resources — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
22		Management of Material Resources — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
22		Operation and Control — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
22		Systems Evaluation — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
19		Troubleshooting — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
10		Programming — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
10		Technology Design — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
6		Equipment Selection — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
3		Equipment Maintenance — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
0		Installation — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
0		Repairing — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

Abilities Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Ability
56		Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
56		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 there is a problem.
53		Deductive Reasoning — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
53		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.
53		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).
53		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		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		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		Extent Flexibility — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
50		Far Vision — The ability to see details at a distance.
50		Near Vision — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
50		Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
50		Speech Clarity — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
50		Speech Recognition — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
50		Static Strength — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
50		Written Comprehension — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
47		Inductive Reasoning — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
47		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.
47		Written Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
44		Category Flexibility — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
44		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.
44		Selective Attention — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
41		Hearing Sensitivity — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
41		Mathematical Reasoning — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
41		Number Facility — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
41		Speed of Limb Movement — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
38		Auditory Attention — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
38		Perceptual Speed — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
38		Stamina — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
38		Visualization — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
35		Fluency of Ideas — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
35		Memorization — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
31		Depth Perception — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
31		Dynamic Strength — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
31		Gross Body Coordination — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
31		Reaction Time — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
31		Speed of Closure — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
31		Visual Color Discrimination — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
31		Wrist-Finger Speed — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
28		Control Precision — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
28		Originality — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
28		Response Orientation — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
28		Time Sharing — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
25		Gross Body Equilibrium — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
25		Rate Control — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
13		Dynamic Flexibility — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
6		Explosive Strength — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
6		Sound Localization — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
3		Peripheral Vision — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
3		Spatial Orientation — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
0		Glare Sensitivity — The ability to see objects in the presence of glare or bright lighting.
0		Night Vision — The ability to see under low light conditions.

Work Activities Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Work Activity
78		Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
73		Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things. prepare sample for laboratory testing, analysis, or microscopy sterilize or disinfect instruments use herbicides, fertilizers, pesticides or related products
72		Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
70		Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
63		Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients. administer injections administer medications or treatments assist in examining or treating dental or medical patients collect specimens from patients draw blood examine animals to detect illness, disease, or injury feed or water animals groom animals position patient for therapy prepare patients for tests, therapy, or treatments take vital signs
63		Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
61		Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
60		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.
60		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 of materials. apply appropriate physical restraint build or repair pens, yards, or cages clean rooms or work areas prepare medical treatment room set up patient care equipment
59		Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
58		Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
56		Interacting With Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
56		Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems. monitor timing or metering devices to regulate environmental conditions observe patient condition
56		Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data. weigh patients
56		Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job. follow patient care procedures use clinical sterilizing technique use health or sanitation standards use knowledge of medical terminology use research methodology procedures in health care
54		Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
53		Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
51		Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
50		Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
49		Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
47		Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
46		Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
46		Selling or Influencing Others — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
45		Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts. conduct medical laboratory tests
43		Communicating with Persons Outside 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.
43		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.
42		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.
42		Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
41		Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
39		Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
38		Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
36		Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
33		Performing Administrative Activities — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
33		Provide Consultation and Advice to Others — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
32		Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
32		Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
30		Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
26		Staffing Organizational Units — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
23		Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
12		Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
10		Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or water craft.

Work Context Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Context		Work Context
97		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?
94		Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
92		Spend Time Standing — How much does this job require standing?
90		Work With Work Group or Team — How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
87		Exposed to Disease or Infections — How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?
86		Physical Proximity — To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
85		Exposed to Contaminants — How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
81		Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
79		Telephone — How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
77		Face-to-Face Discussions — How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
76		Exposed to Radiation — How often does this job require exposure to radiation?
75		Spend Time Walking and Running — How much does this job require walking and running?
72		Responsible for Others' Health and Safety — How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
71		Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?
71		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?
70		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?
69		Deal With External Customers — How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?
68		Consequence of Error — How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
67		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?
67		Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body — How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?
64		Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — How do the decisions an employee makes impact the results of co-workers, clients or the company?
64		Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling — How much does this job require kneeling, crouching, stooping or crawling?
64		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?
62		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?
61		Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
58		Freedom to Make Decisions — How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
58		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?
53		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?
53		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?
51		Coordinate or Lead Others — How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
47		Frequency of Conflict Situations — How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
44		Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
42		Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?
42		Letters and Memos — How often does the job require written letters and memos?
40		Time Pressure — How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
37		Level of Competition — To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
33		Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions — How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?
28		Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance — How much does this job require keeping or regaining your balance?
26		Outdoors, Exposed to Weather — How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?
25		Degree of Automation — How automated is the job?
23		Duration of Typical Work Week — Number of hours typically worked in one week.
22		Electronic Mail — How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
21		Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — How important is it to this job that the pace is determined by the speed of equipment or machinery? (This does not refer to keeping busy at all times on this job.)
20		Public Speaking — How often do you have to perform public speaking in this job?
12		Outdoors, Under Cover — How often does this job require working outdoors, under cover (e.g., structure with roof but no walls)?
10		Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?
10		Spend Time Sitting — How much does this job require sitting?
9		Work Schedules — How regular are the work schedules for this job?
8		Deal With Physically Aggressive People — How frequently does this job require the worker to deal with physical aggression of violent individuals?
8		Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — How often does this job require working in very hot (above 90 F degrees) or very cold (below 32 F degrees) temperatures?
7		Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)?
3		Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles — How much does this job require climbing ladders, scaffolds, or poles?
2		Exposed to High Places — How often does this job require exposure to high places?
2		In an Enclosed Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in a closed vehicle or equipment (e.g., car)?
1		Exposed to Whole Body Vibration — How often does this job require exposure to whole body vibration (e.g., operate a jackhammer)?
1		Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting — How often does this job require working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions?
0		In an Open Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in an open vehicle or equipment (e.g., tractor)?

Job Zone Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Title	Job Zone Two: Some Preparation Needed
Education	These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Related 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.
Job Zone Examples	These occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include sheet metal workers, forest fire fighters, customer service representatives, physical therapist aides, salespersons (retail), and tellers.
SVP Range	(4.0 to < 6.0)

There are 2 recognized apprenticeable specialties associated with this occupation:
Veterinary and Laboratory Animal Technician; Veterinary/Lab Animal Technician

To learn about specific apprenticeship opportunities, please consult the U.S. Department of Labor State Apprenticeship Information website.

For general information about apprenticeships, training, and partnerships with business, visit the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship website.

Education

Percentage of Respondents	Education Level Required
44	High school diploma or equivalent
42	Some college, no degree
14	Less than high school diploma

Interests Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Occupational Interest		Interest
95		Realistic — Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
56		Social — Social occupations frequently involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.
50		Investigative — Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
28		Conventional — Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
17		Artistic — Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
17		Enterprising — Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.

Work Styles Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Work Style
91		Dependability — Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
88		Attention to Detail — Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
86		Cooperation — Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
81		Integrity — Job requires being honest and ethical.
78		Concern for Others — Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
76		Self Control — Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
74		Stress Tolerance — Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high stress situations.
73		Adaptability/Flexibility — Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
70		Initiative — Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
70		Persistence — Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
69		Social Orientation — Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.
65		Achievement/Effort — Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
62		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		Leadership — Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
50		Innovation — Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
48		Analytical Thinking — Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.

Work Values Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Extent		Work Value
72		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.
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.
28		Working Conditions — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
22		Achievement — Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
22		Independence — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
22		Recognition — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.

Related Occupations Save Table (XLS/CSV)

29-2034.00	Radiologic Technologists
29-2051.00	Dietetic Technicians
29-2052.00	Pharmacy Technicians
29-2056.00	Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
31-1011.00	Home Health Aides
31-2012.00	Occupational Therapy Aides
31-2022.00	Physical Therapist Aides Bright Outlook
31-9091.00	Dental Assistants
31-9095.00	Pharmacy Aides
39-9021.00	Personal Care Aides

Wages & Employment Trends

National

Median wages (2012)	$11.12 hourly, $23,130 annual
Employment (2010)	73,000 employees
Projected growth (2010-2020)	Average (10% to 19%)
Projected job openings (2010-2020)	21,600
Top industries (2010)	Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (87% employed in this sector) (see all industries)

State & National

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2012 wage data and 2010-2020 employment projections . "Projected growth" represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2010-2020). "Projected job openings" represent openings due to growth and replacement.

Job Openings on the Web

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State & National Job Banks

Sources of Additional Information

Disclaimer: Sources are listed to provide additional information on related jobs, specialties, and/or industries. Links to non-DOL Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers . Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition.

Details Report for: 31-9096.00 - Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers