Animal Test Technician
どうぶつじっけんさぎょういん
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
This occupation maintains and manages the breeding environment of laboratory animals, observes them, provides feeding and cleaning, etc., to support experiments by researchers. Appropriate techniques and compliance with laws and regulations are required to balance animal welfare and safe experimentation.
Description
Animal test technicians properly breed and manage laboratory animals such as rats and mice, and assist researchers' experiments. Main duties include cage cleaning, feeding and watering, environmental monitoring, observing animal health status, supporting dosing and sampling, assisting experimental procedures, creating breeding records, and sterilizing/disinfecting work areas. Comply with the Animal Welfare Act, related laws and regulations, and facility SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), and thoroughly manage safety and hygiene. Accurate operations and detailed records are required to ensure research reproducibility.
Future Outlook
With the strengthening of the Animal Welfare Act and promotion of the 3Rs, expertise in laboratory animal management is increasingly demanded. On the other hand, while duties may change due to advances in alternative technologies (in vitro models and computer simulations), demand for specialized animal handling personnel is expected to remain stable.
Personality Traits
Able to cooperate in a team / Able to pay attention to details / Considerate of animal welfare / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Experimental Facility Work / Full-time / Shift / Wear Protective Gear
Career Path
Laboratory Animal Worker (Junior) → Laboratory Animal Technician → Facility Manager → Lab Manager → Research and Development Role
Required Skills
Animal Breeding Management / Animal Observation / Aseptic Handling / Basic Experimental Techniques / Facility Hygiene Management / Record Keeping
Recommended Skills
Basic Knowledge of Microbiology and Chemistry / Data Management Software Operation / English Literature Reading / Hygiene Management / SOP Creation
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because accuracy is essential for animal health management and data recording. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Because continuous acquisition of regulations, SOPs, and new technologies is required. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because it requires physical strength for cage changes and feeding. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because routine tasks are the main focus and creativity is not particularly required. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because advanced mathematical analysis is handled by specialized researchers. |
Related Qualifications
- Animal Handling Supervisor
- Laboratory Animal Technician Certification Exam
Aliases
- Lab Animal Technician
- Laboratory Animal Caretaker
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