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Veterinary Biotechnologist |
Career OverviewA veterinary biotechnologist works to understand and develop methods, processes and practices that involve using biotechnology in veterinary practices. The focus of a veterinary biotechnologist is to enhance the life, treatments and care of domestic animals by using biotechnology and all its components to develop new medications and treatment options for animals.
Besides just pets such as cats, dogs and birds a veterinary biotechnologist may also work on large animals such as cattle, poultry, swine and other production type animals such as sheep. A validation technician is more involved in developing new medicines and treatment rather than actually enhancing the specific breed traits or working with advancing genetic capabilities within the various species.
The veterinary biotechnologist may work both in the laboratory and with the animals themselves. Often the veterinary biotechnologist is a supervisor or team leader of a research project and will work with the technology from the beginning of the process in the lab through to actual clinical trials outside of the laboratory.
A veterinary biotechnologist must have a good understanding of biology, life science, veterinary medicines and practices as well as research design and data analysis. Often the veterinary biotechnologist works in conjunction with other scientists and specialists to complete the project. Good communication skills and the ability to work in a team are essential skills for veterinary biotechnologists.
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Career RequirementsA veterinary biotechnologist job usually requires a Bachelors or Associates level education in animal science, chemistry, biology, biotechnology, genetic engineering or other life science. In addition most job seekers want someone that has extensive laboratory and fieldwork experience either obtained through post-secondary education or through work experience.
Occasionally a Masters level will be required, especially for supervisory roles or for management positions within a company. Many of the larger pharmaceutical companies hire Masters level technologist in various disciplines to work as management in the lab and other areas of production.
Often colleges or universities offer cooperative or work experience programs that combine both the practical experience of working in a lab with the theoretical knowledge from the classroom. Graduates from these programs are often hired with the same agencies that supervised their practicum and work experience.
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Job OutlookAll careers and jobs within the biotechnology field, veterinary biotechnologists included, are expected to have a steady increase in demand for the next ten years. As the population has more money to spend on themselves and their pets the more options there are available for treatments and medications.
Greater disease resistance and genetic development of meat, dairy and poultry industries have also driven demand for qualified veterinary biotechnologists both in government agencies and private facilities.
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Career TrackAs with most laboratory and research careers the opportunities for advancement and changes are great. Specialization in one area of interest can give the veterinary biotechnologist additional skills in supervision, management or research projects and facilities.
Additional education and completing a Masters or PhD program gives veterinary biotechnologists the opportunity to complete independent research, teach in colleges and universities, or even become consultants to other facilities.
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CompensationThe average starting salary for a veterinary biotechnologist with an Associates level degree and minimal lab experience is approximately $12.00 per hour. As the veterinary biotechnologist gains experience the hourly wage increases to an average of $16.00 per hour, plus associated benefits as per the agency. Masters level veterinary biotechnologists and those in supervisory roles usually average between $38,000 and $44,000 per year.
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