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-generated
Key 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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
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
