Animal Care Technician

Job description

Be part of a dynamic and productive team, conducting cutting edge research that impacts and improves the health and well-being of our nation’s Veterans. Under the direction and supervision of the of the Animal Scientist and Director of Research Operations, the Animal Care Technician will provide care for all small animal species in accordance with standard operating procedures, to ensure a sanitary and safe environment for research animals.  The Animal Care Technician is responsible for animal husbandry and routine housekeeping of facility.  The position can be considered for full time if the candidate also expresses interest and possesses the necessary experience, to also serve as a basic science lab technician in the cardiopulmonary research laboratory.

JOB SUMMARY:

Duties:

• Husbandry of small rodents (cage changing, using cage washer, process clean cages, fill water bottles, etc.).
• Maintains animals and their environment according to Federal and AALAS standards.
• Utilizes appropriate cleaning solutions and techniques to sanitize animal cages, operating rooms, and equipment in the facility.
• Observes the animals’ condition and makes any changes in the care and habitat if needed.
• Perform assessments to determine (1) normal appearance, (2) changes in behavior, (3) presence of disease or abnormalities.
• Monitors cages and the premises for proper heat, light, humidity, air conditioning requirements.
• Assist in transport, loading or unloading cages, animals, supplies as needed.
• Maintains accurate records (animal care, supply and equipment inventory, animal census, etc.).
• Oversee breeding and reproduction according to protocol and supervisor direction.
• Reports deviations or problems to the supervisor that cannot be immediately remedied by the employee.

Bio Lab Tech duties include:

• Perform routine molecular and cellular biology assays, such as PCR, Western blotting, ELISA, and cell culture.
• Process, label, store, and track biological specimens, including blood, tissue, and cell samples.
• Prepare reagents, solutions, media, and laboratory materials according to established protocols.
• Operate, calibrate, clean, and maintain laboratory instruments and research equipment.
• Collect, organize, enter, and perform basic analysis of experimental data.
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks, sample inventories, and study documentation.

Requirements:

• At least 2 years of college (in Biology or Animal Science field of study is preferred).
• Demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the duties of this position and work independently or with others.
• Must possess the physical strength, dexterity, and endurance to lift, pull, push, and handle cages, racks, large pieces of miscellaneous equipment, 40lb feed & bedding bags, and other materials and equipment normally found in a research facility.
• Must possess transportation or reliable method to get to the facility
• Possible shifts may include weekends, holidays, and summers.