Animal technician

Career path and progression

You could become a senior animal technician and supervise or manage the work of other technicians.

With experience and further training, you could become an animal technologist or a named animal care and welfare officer.

You could specialise in working with animals in specific research areas like breeding, immunology or genetics.

There may also be opportunities to work as a trainer and assessor of new animal technicians.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to use your initiative
• sensitivity and understanding
• thinking and reasoning skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• administration skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Biology - Animal technicians need to understand animal anatomy, physiology, and behaviour to monitor the health and wellbeing of animals in their care. They observe changes in weight, behaviour, and physical condition – all of which require a solid understanding of how living organisms function. Those who specialise further may work in areas like genetics, immunology, or breeding.
• Chemistry - Animal technicians work in laboratory environments where they need to understand hygiene protocols, cleaning agents, and the scientific processes being carried out around them. Knowledge of chemistry helps them handle substances safely and understand the research context in which they are caring for animals.

Also relevant

• Mathematics - Animal technicians measure and record data such as animal weights, food quantities, and environmental conditions like temperature and humidity. They need to be comfortable with calculations and accurate record-keeping to ensure animals receive the correct care.
• Environmental Science - Animal technicians control and monitor environmental conditions such as heating, lighting, and humidity in animal facilities. Understanding how environmental factors affect living organisms helps them maintain the right conditions for different species.
• Physics - Animal technicians manage environmental controls including heating, lighting, and humidity systems within research facilities. A basic understanding of how these physical systems work helps them maintain stable and appropriate conditions for the animals.
• English Language - Animal technicians keep detailed written records of observations, feeding schedules, and animal behaviour. Clear and accurate communication is important when reporting to researchers and other team members about the condition of animals in their care.
• Psychology - Animal technicians regularly observe and interpret animal behaviour to assess wellbeing and detect signs of stress or illness. Understanding behavioural principles – including how animals respond to their environment – helps them provide better care and spot problems early.