Military Animal Specialists
Military Career
General Information
Description
Animal specialists perform unique duties in connection with operations using animals. They are responsible for the care, welfare, and continuous training of assigned animals to ensure physical condition and behavioral proficiency is maintained. They prepare and maintain administrative reports and health records associated with the animals in their care.
Explore this career outside the MilitaryWork Environment
Animal specialists can work in either a veterinary clinic setting or a research lab. While these areas are usually located on a military base, it is also possible for animal care specialists to work in a mobile unit in the field. They also may work on ships when caring for marine mammals.
Workplace at a Glance
What you can expect to experience while on the job
- Responsibility
- Exposure to job hazards
- Physical activity
- Decision making
- Repetitiveness
- Level of competition
- Time pressure
Comparable Industries
- Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources
Military Outlook
Service Branches
Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.
Army
Marine Corps
Navy
Air Force
Coast Guard
Space ForceMilitary Status
- Enlisted
- Hands-on/specialized
- High school diploma required
Salary
What makes up a Military salary?
Military salaries include a lot more than just base pay.
They also offer:
- Housing allowances
- Subsistence allowances
- Special and incentive pays
- Cost-of-living allowances
- Hazardous-duty pay
- Bonuses
Learn more about what goes into a salary with the compensation estimator
Learn more about military insurance and retirement benefits
Education
Most Common Education Levels
People in this career achieve this level of education.
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High school 63%
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Bachelor's degree 13%
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Associate's degree 13%
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Less than high school 9%
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Some college 0%
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Master's degree 0%
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Doctoral degree 0%
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Post baccalaureate 0%
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Post-doctoral training 0%
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Post-master's certificate 0%
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First professional degree 0%
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Post-secondary certificate 0%
Military training
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Animal specialists gain skills through classes and on-the-job experience. Training content may include: Animal care techniquesEmergency medical techniquesMethods of sterilizing surgical equipmentPlaster-casting techniquesOperation of navigational equipmentMission-specific skills
Read MoreSkills at a Glance
Skills helpful in this career
- Verbal skills
- Critical thinking & problem solving
- Equipment operation & maintenance
- Math & science skills
- Technology design & control
- Leadership
Knowledge
- Customer and Personal Service
- English Language
- Administrative
- Education and Training
- Computers and Electronics
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