Entry Level Animal Care Specialist Jobs
New grad animal care specialist jobs welcome recent graduates and entry level candidates with zero to two years of experience, where hands-on internship work or a strong volunteer background can matter more than a long resume. Most openings are on-site roles across Education, Animal Care & Pet Services, and Science & Research, with employers like Emory University, VCA Animal Hospitals, and Charles River Laboratories hiring at this level now.
Find JobsOverview
Open roles13
Top stateGeorgia
Top employerEmory University
Top cityAtlanta, GA
Work type88% On-site
Top industryEducation
Showing 5 of 13+ Entry Level Animal Care Specialist jobs
Animal Care Technician I - Lawrenceville
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Added 1d ago
Emory University
Animal Care Technician I - Lawrenceville
Lawrenceville, Georgia
Added 1d ago
Large Animal Emergency & Critical Care - Asst Professor
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Added 3d ago
Auburn University
Large Animal Emergency & Critical Care - Asst Professor
Auburn University, Alabama
Added 3d ago
Animal Care Technician I
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Added 2w ago
Emory University
Animal Care Technician I
Atlanta, Georgia
Added 2w ago
Animal Care Assistant
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Added 2w ago
VCA Animal Hospitals
Animal Care Assistant
Roswell, Georgia
Added 2w ago
Animal Care Technician II
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Added 2w ago
Charles River Laboratories
Animal Care Technician II
Hollister, California
Added 2w ago
Added 1d ago
Animal Care Technician I - Lawrenceville
Emory University·Lawrenceville, Georgia
Job functions:
On-Site
High school diploma or GED
Full Time
10,000+ employees
Job Description
Discover Your Career at Emory University: Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community. Description:
The ideal candidate should be highly motivated, extremely dependable, reliable, detail-oriented, and possess a positive attitude and passion for animal care in a research environment. The Animal Care Technician will be a team player who is willing to learn on the job and collaborate with coworkers and other departments at the facility. The Animal Care Technician will work to ensure the highest quality of husbandry and care. Efficient and effective communication skills with co-workers, the management team, PIs, research staff, students, and other support services are also required.
Collaborate. Innovate. Serve. These three simple words capture what we do at ENBRC to help advance science and improve the health and well-being of humans and non-human primates. If you are someone with animal care experience who is familiar with standard policies and practices associated with providing humane and compassionate care to animals in a biomedical research setting, this is an amazing opportunity to indirectly save and change lives and make a positive impact in the science and research community.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.
Additional Details: Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).
Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.
The Division of Animal Resources, within the Emory National Biomedical Research Center at Emory University, is currently seeking Animal Care Technicians to join our team. Our work consists of providing husbandry and care for a large colony of nonhuman primates in an open campus type setting. In addition to the husbandry and care duties and responsibilities, technicians are also trained to assist veterinary staff, colony management staff, and behavioral management staff. Once trained, Animal Care Technicians are assigned to an alternating weekend and holiday schedule.
The ideal candidate should be highly motivated, extremely dependable, reliable, detail-oriented, and possess a positive attitude and passion for animal care in a research environment. The Animal Care Technician will be a team player who is willing to learn on the job and collaborate with coworkers and other departments at the facility. The Animal Care Technician will work to ensure the highest quality of husbandry and care. Efficient and effective communication skills with co-workers, the management team, PIs, research staff, students, and other support services are also required.
Collaborate. Innovate. Serve. These three simple words capture what we do at ENBRC to help advance science and improve the health and well-being of humans and non-human primates. If you are someone with animal care experience who is familiar with standard policies and practices associated with providing humane and compassionate care to animals in a biomedical research setting, this is an amazing opportunity to indirectly save and change lives and make a positive impact in the science and research community.
Dedicated to discovering causes, preventions, treatments, and cures of disease, Emory National Biomedical Research Center (ENBRC) is improving human and animal health and lives worldwide. One of seven NPRCs funded by the NIH, ENBRC conducts studies that make breakthrough discoveries possible. Learn more at http://enbrc.emory.edu.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Performs routine duties associated with animal care in a research setting.
- Prepares food and feeds animals, maintains sanitary conditions, observes animal conditions and behavior, and collects animal specimens.
- May assist in animal restraint, maintaining animal housing and minor cage maintenance.
- Performs related responsibilities as required.
- Employees in this classification may be required to work with, take specific precautions against, and/or be immunized against potentially hazardous agents.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- A high school diploma or equivalent and six-months (fulltime) of animal husbandry or related animal care experience OR one year of animal husbandry experience in a laboratory animal facility.
- The ability to lift up to 75 pounds.
- Positions in this classification may require a valid Georgia driver's license and an insurable driving record.
PREFERRED/DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Excellent interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills.
- Previous animal care experience.
- AALAS certification.
- Collaborative and team spirited.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
- Work schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:30 am - 4:00 pm, alternating weekends and Holidays.
- Outdoor work environment and outdoor hazards (weather conditions and insects, for example).
- Work environment involves working with biohazardous blood and tissues.
- Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.
- Work is normally performed in a typical laboratory environment.
- Requires the ability to bend, kneel, and/or squat.
- Requires significant walking.
PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING STATEMENT:
The Emory National Biomedical Research Center (ENBRC), in conjunction with Emory University, conducts pre-employment screenings for all positions. These screenings may include an Information Network Associates (INA) and criminal background check, and verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. In addition, the process may include a drug screening with health assessment, and review and mandate for various vaccinations. Updated COVID-19 vaccinations may be necessary for specific research projects.
NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.
Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.
Emory University
Animal Care Technician I - Lawrenceville
Lawrenceville, Georgia
Added 1d ago10,000+ employees
Job functions:
On-Site
High school diploma or GED
Full Time
Job Description
Discover Your Career at Emory University: Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community. Description:
The ideal candidate should be highly motivated, extremely dependable, reliable, detail-oriented, and possess a positive attitude and passion for animal care in a research environment. The Animal Care Technician will be a team player who is willing to learn on the job and collaborate with coworkers and other departments at the facility. The Animal Care Technician will work to ensure the highest quality of husbandry and care. Efficient and effective communication skills with co-workers, the management team, PIs, research staff, students, and other support services are also required.
Collaborate. Innovate. Serve. These three simple words capture what we do at ENBRC to help advance science and improve the health and well-being of humans and non-human primates. If you are someone with animal care experience who is familiar with standard policies and practices associated with providing humane and compassionate care to animals in a biomedical research setting, this is an amazing opportunity to indirectly save and change lives and make a positive impact in the science and research community.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.
Additional Details: Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).
Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.
The Division of Animal Resources, within the Emory National Biomedical Research Center at Emory University, is currently seeking Animal Care Technicians to join our team. Our work consists of providing husbandry and care for a large colony of nonhuman primates in an open campus type setting. In addition to the husbandry and care duties and responsibilities, technicians are also trained to assist veterinary staff, colony management staff, and behavioral management staff. Once trained, Animal Care Technicians are assigned to an alternating weekend and holiday schedule.
The ideal candidate should be highly motivated, extremely dependable, reliable, detail-oriented, and possess a positive attitude and passion for animal care in a research environment. The Animal Care Technician will be a team player who is willing to learn on the job and collaborate with coworkers and other departments at the facility. The Animal Care Technician will work to ensure the highest quality of husbandry and care. Efficient and effective communication skills with co-workers, the management team, PIs, research staff, students, and other support services are also required.
Collaborate. Innovate. Serve. These three simple words capture what we do at ENBRC to help advance science and improve the health and well-being of humans and non-human primates. If you are someone with animal care experience who is familiar with standard policies and practices associated with providing humane and compassionate care to animals in a biomedical research setting, this is an amazing opportunity to indirectly save and change lives and make a positive impact in the science and research community.
Dedicated to discovering causes, preventions, treatments, and cures of disease, Emory National Biomedical Research Center (ENBRC) is improving human and animal health and lives worldwide. One of seven NPRCs funded by the NIH, ENBRC conducts studies that make breakthrough discoveries possible. Learn more at http://enbrc.emory.edu.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Performs routine duties associated with animal care in a research setting.
- Prepares food and feeds animals, maintains sanitary conditions, observes animal conditions and behavior, and collects animal specimens.
- May assist in animal restraint, maintaining animal housing and minor cage maintenance.
- Performs related responsibilities as required.
- Employees in this classification may be required to work with, take specific precautions against, and/or be immunized against potentially hazardous agents.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- A high school diploma or equivalent and six-months (fulltime) of animal husbandry or related animal care experience OR one year of animal husbandry experience in a laboratory animal facility.
- The ability to lift up to 75 pounds.
- Positions in this classification may require a valid Georgia driver's license and an insurable driving record.
PREFERRED/DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Excellent interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills.
- Previous animal care experience.
- AALAS certification.
- Collaborative and team spirited.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
- Work schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:30 am - 4:00 pm, alternating weekends and Holidays.
- Outdoor work environment and outdoor hazards (weather conditions and insects, for example).
- Work environment involves working with biohazardous blood and tissues.
- Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.
- Work is normally performed in a typical laboratory environment.
- Requires the ability to bend, kneel, and/or squat.
- Requires significant walking.
PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING STATEMENT:
The Emory National Biomedical Research Center (ENBRC), in conjunction with Emory University, conducts pre-employment screenings for all positions. These screenings may include an Information Network Associates (INA) and criminal background check, and verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. In addition, the process may include a drug screening with health assessment, and review and mandate for various vaccinations. Updated COVID-19 vaccinations may be necessary for specific research projects.
NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.
Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.
See All 13 Entry Level Animal Care Specialist Jobs
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Find JobsEntry Level Animal Care Specialist Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
- Animal Care & Pet Services
- Science & Research
Entry Level Animal Care Specialist Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get an entry level animal care specialist job?
Start by gaining hands-on experience through volunteer work at shelters, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or veterinary clinics, since most employers at this level value direct animal handling over classroom credentials alone. Certifications in animal first aid or species-specific care can strengthen your application. Tailor your resume to highlight any internships, lab work, or supervised handling experience, and be ready to describe specific animals you have worked with.
Which companies hire entry level animal care specialists?
Companies hiring entry level animal care specialists right now include Emory University, VCA Animal Hospitals, and Charles River Laboratories, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. At this level, hiring comes from a mix of zoological institutions, animal shelters, veterinary practices, and research facilities that regularly onboard candidates with limited professional experience.
Are there remote entry level animal care specialist jobs?
Yes, though most animal care roles require in-person handling, some coordination and administrative positions do allow remote or hybrid arrangements. About 13% of entry level animal care specialist openings are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, so candidates open to on-site work will find the widest range of opportunities at this stage.
Are these new grad animal care specialist jobs?
Yes, these listings include new grad, recent graduate, and junior animal care specialist roles. A posting is new-grad friendly when it welcomes zero to two years of experience, accepts internships or volunteer hours in place of full-time history, or values a portfolio of supervised animal handling. If a listing does not require prior employment, it is a strong fit for anyone starting out.
Which industries hire the most entry level animal care specialists?
Entry Level animal care specialist roles concentrate in Education, Animal Care & Pet Services, and Science & Research, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. These sectors drive entry level hiring because they maintain large animal populations, run structured training programs, and regularly need hands-on staff to support daily care operations.