Animal Care Technician

Animal Care & Vivarium Operations Technician Type: Full-Time Location: Headquarters – Sorrento Valley, San Diego, CA Work Type: Onsite Pay Range: $23.00 – $24.00 per hour Classification: Non-Exempt Department: Vivarium Operations 

About BioLegacy 

BioLegacy is the U.S. division of PharmaLegacy, a global preclinical contract research organization (CRO) supporting the biopharmaceutical industry with high-quality, regulated in vivo research services. 

Our San Diego facility operates under rigorous regulatory standards to ensure animal welfare, scientific integrity, and operational excellence in support of our client studies. 

Position Overview 

The Animal Care & Vivarium Operations Technician plays a vital role in maintaining the health, welfare, and daily care of research animals within a regulated laboratory environment. This position ensures that animal housing areas operate efficiently, safely, and in compliance with institutional, federal, and client requirements. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking hands-on experience in preclinical research operations, laboratory animal care, or the life sciences industry. 

Primary Responsibilities 

Animal Care & Welfare Provide daily food, water, and environmental monitoring according to established schedules. Observe animals for general health and behavior; promptly communicate concerns to veterinary or supervisory staff. Transfer animals between cages or housing areas following protocol guidelines. 

Vivarium Sanitation & Compliance 

Perform routine cage changes and maintain clean housing environments. Sanitize rooms, equipment, and materials according to SOPs and biosafety standards. Properly handle and dispose of waste in compliance with safety and regulatory requirements. Maintain strict adherence to PPE and contamination control procedures. Facility Preparation & Logistics Prepare cages, racks, and housing spaces for incoming animal cohorts. Support animal receipt, housing assignments, and associated documentation. Monitor inventory levels of feed, bedding, and supplies; notify leadership of shortages. 

Documentation & Quality Control 

Accurately complete daily logs, facility records, and compliance documentation. Follow written SOPs and quality procedures without deviation. Participate in audits and inspections as required. Team Collaboration Work closely with colleagues to ensure seamless daily operations. Participate in rotating weekend and holiday schedules. Attend team meetings and required training sessions. 

Qualifications Required 

Ability to follow detailed procedures in a regulated environment.

Strong attention to detail and consistency in performing routine tasks. Basic computer proficiency (email, Word, Excel). 

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and remain standing for extended periods. 

Willingness to work in an environment with animal dander, odors, and cleaning agents. 

Required vaccinations prior to employment. 

Preferred (Not Required) 

Prior experience in animal care, laboratory settings, veterinary clinics, agriculture, or related fields. Familiarity with SOP-driven environments or regulated industries. 

Work Environment This position operates within a controlled vivarium setting with exposure to animal dander, biohazardous materials, and sanitizing chemicals. Strict PPE usage and adherence to biosafety protocols are mandatory. The role requires physical activity, repetitive tasks, and schedule-based operations. 

BioLegacy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and consider all qualified applicants without regard to legally protected characteristics.