Animal Scientists
Conduct research in the genetics, nutrition, reproduction, growth, and development of domestic farm animals.
SOC: 19-1011.00
Common Job Titles
- Animal Nutritionist
- Animal Scientist
- Beef Cattle Nutritionist
- Research Scientist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeAnalyze genetic, nutritional, and reproductive data from domestic farm animals using statistical software such as SAS and specialized animal breeding programs in research settings.Advanced
- KnowledgeDesign experimental research protocols for animal growth and development studies independently, considering regulatory requirements and animal welfare standards.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize findings from genetics, nutrition, and physiology research into comprehensive reports for publication in scientific journals and presentation to interdisciplinary audiences.Advanced
- KnowledgeFormulate nutritional feed programs and breeding strategies for livestock production optimization integrating biological, economic, and environmental considerations.Advanced
- KnowledgeEvaluate biological and chemical data to determine compliance with food production standards using laboratory analytical equipment and established protocols.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate evidence-based animal husbandry practices to agricultural stakeholders through presentations, publications, and direct consultation with farm producers.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform laboratory procedures including spectrophotometry, chromatography, and DNA sequencing using specialized equipment such as PCR machines, HPLC systems, and electrophoresis apparatus.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate animal handling and measurement equipment including scales, ultrasound probes, and blood collection systems following animal welfare protocols in field and laboratory settings.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate collaborative research priorities with stakeholder needs across academic, industry, and government sectors when developing and leading multi-institutional research projects.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess animal health and productivity indicators through monitoring physiological and behavioral parameters in experimental and production environments using computerized data collection systems.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Animal Scientists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
2,470
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $48,440. 25th percentile: U.S. $59,610. 50th percentile: U.S. $79,120. 75th percentile: U.S. $128,450. 90th percentile: U.S. $235,750. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $48,440 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $235,750 |
| Workers on average earn | $104,970 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Biology4.6/5
- Mathematics4.1/5
- English Language4.1/5
- Chemistry4.0/5
- Food Production3.8/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- Oracle PeopleSoft
- SAS
- Structured query language SQL
- Tableau
Technology Skills
- Best Linear Unbiased Prediction BLUP
- COWGAME
- Cowculator
- DAGRIS
- Database software
- Deoxyribonucleic acid DNA sequence analysis software
- Domestic Animal Diversity Information Service DAD-IS
- Email software
Tools & Equipment
- Analytic balances
- Animal blood analyzers
- Animal catching equipment
- Animal feed mixers
- Animal feeders
- Animal heater lamps
- Artificial insemination kits
- Atomic absorption AA spectrometers