Why Demand for Technical Expertise Is Rising Across Animal Health

Products and roles are evolving:

The animal health sector has changed considerably in recent years. Products are becoming more complex, from advanced diagnostics to specialised treatments, and technology now plays a key role in how these products are used and supported. When I talk to candidates across the industry, it’s clear that the level of technical knowledge required in many roles has grown far beyond what it was even a few years ago, and this affects not just technical support positions, but sales, service, and product roles as well. People are expected to be able to explain how a product works in a practical setting and to support customers with confidence, which adds a new dimension to day-to-day responsibilities.

Customers expect support:

Veterinary practices, laboratories, and production environments all operate under increasing pressure to perform efficiently and safely. When issues arise, they expect more than a simple fix; they want someone who understands the product, the process, and the outcome. That expectation means that technical expertise is now a key part of maintaining trust and ensuring that products are used correctly, safely, and effectively. Professionals who can combine detailed technical knowledge with an understanding of real-world application are highly sought after because they provide more than a service—they provide assurance.

The talent pool is limited:

From a recruitment perspective, the growing demand for these skills meets a relatively small supply of people with the right experience. Many highly technical professionals are already in roles where they feel secure, while others have moved into broader positions that take them out of the field entirely. That leaves employers competing for the same individuals, and it also means that the process of finding the right person requires careful planning, patience, and an understanding of what motivates people beyond just the job description.

Clarity and support matter to candidates:

When I speak to technical candidates, they consistently highlight how much the clarity of a role matters to them. They want to understand the expectations, the level of technical depth required, and how they will be supported as products and responsibilities evolve. Uncertainty, whether around the role, training, or day-to-day support, makes even the most interested candidate pause, particularly if they are currently in a role where they feel confident and established.

How Zenopa contributes:

As a veterinary recruitment agency, we spend our time talking with technical professionals across animal health and gaining insight into what they value most in a role. That understanding allows us to support companies in presenting their roles in a realistic, transparent way and ensures that candidates can see whether a position truly aligns with their skills, goals, and expectations. It isn’t about creating a pitch, it’s about making sure both sides understand what the work involves and what is expected.

Planning for the future:

The demand for technical expertise in animal health isn’t going to decrease. As products evolve and customers expect more from the companies they work with, the roles supporting those products will continue to require a higher level of knowledge and skill. Companies that recognise this early and take the time to define and support these positions are more likely to build teams that remain stable, capable, and engaged over the long term.

For more information, visit our Animal Health recruitment page or get in touch!