Position Summary

The position is responsible for performing animal husbandry activities for research animals in specialized Animal Biosafety Level 1 or Level 2 (ABSL-1 or ABSL-2) animal facility.

Job Responsibilities

• Provides humane care for research animals, including feeding, providing water, changing cages, cleaning, and breeding, following established schedules and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Cleans and disinfects floors, walls and other ancillary spaces in the animal care facility and laboratory.
• Rotates, disassembles, reassembles, and sanitizes mouse racks and other animal care equipment, following SOPs to avoid contamination.
• Checks the temperature, lighting, ventilation, and water quality indices maintaining the recommended environmental conditions for the animals.
• Moves animals to appropriate disposable cages, attaches duly filled cage cards and utilizes scanners and devices to account for all animals.
• Observes animal health and welfare, notifying the team in the event of any variances or abnormalities.
• Assists with restraining of animals, administering medications and euthanasia in a safe and timely manner following the SOPs, guidelines, and regulations.
• Maintains log of all activities and updates tracker and database electronically.
• Receives, logs, labels and stores animal feed, edible enrichment, vivarium supplies and equipment updating the team on inventory levels, expiry dates and equipment maintenance related issues in a timely manner.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Education and Experience

High school diploma or GED with 2-3 years of relevant experience. 

Experience working with laboratory animals at ABSL-1 or ABSL-2 facility is highly desirable. 

Experience working in an AAALAC International accredited facility is an advantage.

Registered Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (RALAT) certification by American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) is an advantage. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Desire to work with and care for animals.
• Ability to understand and follow instructions with attention to detail.
• Ability to read, write and speak English fluently.
• Basic computer knowledge.
• Visual concentration, manual dexterity, eye-hand coordination.

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

Ability to lift and carry 25 pounds.

Standing for extended periods.

Ability to climb and work from ladders and platforms.

Lifting, pushing, pulling, and carrying heavy equipment and supplies.