Careers

The Center for Animal Resources and Education (CARE) values Animal Care Technicians who are engaged, enthusiastic, and committed to humane and compassionate care of animals. Under the general supervision of a CARE Facilities Manager, the Animal Care Technician (ACT) performs a variety of duties related to the daily care of large and small laboratory research animals used for research purposes and maintenance of animal care facilities.  In accordance with established policies and standard operating procedures, the ACTs clean, feed and water research animals, check animals’ health status, complete daily work logs and health enrichment forms, support the receiving of new animals, and assist researchers and veterinarians with related duties.

Some weekend and holiday work required. Weekends are worked on a rotating basis, every 4 weeks. Availability and number of holidays to be worked is contingent upon staffing needs.

• · Feed and water many different species of research animals; monitor general health of animals.         

• Measures and mixes food following established policy and procedure or according to individual research protocols
• Supply food and water to animals as directed
• Re-stock supplies
• Monitors animal behavior and health status; is alert to and recognizes abnormal responses to behavior; informs supervisor and/or veterinarians of animal health issues in a timely manner.
• Complete daily work logs and health and enrichment forms in accordance with established policies and procedures
• Clean and change animal cages and rooms. Perform cage washing, disinfection and sterilization operations  
• Move animals to clean cages and rooms
• Remove soiled bedding, wash cages, prepare cages, sterilize cages, water bottles and rooms, clean support equipment in room and utility areas
• Monitor environmental conditions of animal rooms (light, temperature, humidity, etc.) according to established procedures and/or special conditions indicated in experimental protocols.  Corrects irregularities and alerts supervisor of situation as necessary.
• Performs routine duties associated with cage sanitation and preparation for reuse in a research setting including cage maintenance, monitoring equipment for proper functioning and maintaining sanitary conditions and daily records.
• Operates washers and ensures that cage washing and related equipment are in proper working order by cleaning, and preventive maintenance. Perform routine start-up and shut down procedures of all cage wash machines.
• Operates autoclave to sterilize or decontaminate caging equipment. Assist in receiving and storing materials, food and supplies. Transport caging supplies between animal rooms and cage washrooms.
• Maintain sanitary conditions of cage washing rooms and other ancillary areas, such as hallways and storage areas.
• Set up rooms and cages with proper equipment, food and bedding
• Put away new animals
• Organize cage cards
• Stock feed and bedding in room
• Maintains cleanliness of general animal care facilities; may assist in ordering, receiving, and stocking materials and supplies
• Complete miscellaneous tasks as assigned by supervisor

Education and Experience

• High School graduate or GED required or equivalent combination of education/experience
• AALAS certification at the Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) level preferred
• 1-2 years’ related experience working with animals preferred
• AALAS certification at the Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) level is strongly encouraged within the first year of employment

JOB TITLE: NHP Veterinary Technician I/II

Summary

Under the direction of the Sr. Veterinary Technician or Facility Veterinarian, the Veterinary Technician shall primarily be responsible for daily rounds, preliminary health exams of sick animals, reporting to the veterinarians, examination of all incoming animals for overt signs of illness, and assistance with the animal surveillance program for NHP species. This person must be knowledgeable of veterinary medical terminology, animal treatment, nursing, and observations and communicating abnormal or poor health. This person will be responsible for assisting investigators with technical procedures including sedation, anesthetic monitoring, bleeding, drug administration, identification of animals, restraint, and keeping appropriate records.

Requirements

Level I: Employee must have a high school diploma, hold an Associate Arts Degree in Veterinary Technology or experience working with animals in biomedical research preferable) or companion animal practice and be eligible to take the LAT certification.

Level II: Employee must have a high school diploma, hold an Associate Arts Degree in Veterinary Technology or B.S. degree in biology, animal science or similar discipline, experience working with animals in biomedical research preferable) or companion animal practice and be eligible to take the LATG certification

Duties

· Provide care to research animals, performing health observations, reporting problems or abnormalities to the veterinarians.

· Assess and document clinical observations, body weight data, food consumption data, environmental data, and other data on the appropriate forms.

· Ensure that records, logbook, and other clinical and project records are appropriately and contemporaneously maintained.

· Administer drugs or treatments including dose calculation and controlled drug record keeping.

· Communicate with all staff to care for animals and provide high quality services to the customers.

· Coordinate work schedules with researchers and the supervisors.

· Restraint and positioning of animals for examination or treatment.

· Monitoring and executing the sentinel animal program.

· Assure that procedures and practices involving the program of animal care are appropriate for the continued maintenance of AAALAC accreditation of the NIH animal facility.

· Assist, when requested, in experimental planning and logistics/scheduling requirements.

· Maintain facility cleanliness along with sanitation and sterilization of supplies and equipment.

· Ensure all safety requirements are met.

· Identify and report potential problem areas related to animal use, care, or health, or problems with facilities or equipment which might be hazard to animals or personnel.

· Compliance with the QA/QC program.

· Pursue specialized training or cross training to maximize delivery of services.

· Maintain a current knowledge of existing and proposed laws, regulations, and guidelines affecting the care and use of animals at the NIH.

· Maintain a broad general knowledge and competence in lab animal science husbandry, technical procedures, and facility management.

· Perform other duties as assigned to include routine animal husbandry and cage wash functions as needed during emergencies.

SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE:

• Handling and manipulating animals
• Literate in written and spoken English
• Experience in an animal facility or previous skills working in a veterinary clinic.
• Knowledgeable in PC applications including word documents and spreadsheets

ANIMAL RESEARCH TECHNICIAN (Richland, MI) Candidate will work with equine animals. Must have a high school diploma or equivalent, college degree in Animal Science preferred but not required, and at least two years experience in Biological Research working on in a laboratory animal facility with companion animals. Candidate should have experience working in ABSL1-2 facilities, collecting raw data, clinical observations, administering body weights, animal restraint, record keeping, dosing, and processing data utilizing “Good Laboratory Practices”. Candidate should have experience with biological processing (bloods and other fluids), interface with different departments on a daily basis, histology experience, blood collection and previous research experience is a plus. Candidate should have experience with mechanical machinery and operations and be able to perform physical labor involving the breaking down and setting up of heavy caging. Must be able to lift 40 lbs to 60 lbs, climb, stoop, bend, reach, and stand for prolonged periods. Be responsible and reliable to work independently when necessary, and maintain good customer relations. Demonstrated math and reading comprehension and good oral and written communication skills are required, good organizational skills Self starter (motivated) Independent worker. Demonstrated computer skills preferred. This is a full-time position from the hours of Monday – Friday, some weekend and holiday hours maybe required. Qualified applicant will be expected to complete and pass an employee background check, regulated drug screen and physical prior to being hired. Job ID: ART-Equine

JOB TITLE: Priority One Services’ Assistant Project Manager (Project Manager II)

SUMMARY: Under the direction of the Project Manager, the Assistant Project Manager (Project Manager II) will ensure the NIH Division of Veterinary Resources contract is managed and oversight provided to all staff. The Assistant Project Manager is responsible for the daily oversight of all vivarium support departments and Cage Wash areas. This position must take ownership, along with the department supervisors, of area operations and error resolution to ensure that daily contractual obligations are completed. They will maintain budgets, reports, performance records, area documentation. Submitting all required documentation to maintain specific requirements of the contract. They are responsible for the coaching, directing, teaching, training, and performance correction of all personnel. The Assistant Project Manager will maintain a professional business appearance and demeanor while performing or attending business functions.

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS:

Work Assignments are based on work requirements to meet the contract needs, which may include the following duties:

• Provide competent and reasonable direction, organization, and management to all departments and positions on the contract.
• Knowledge in operations (ABSLI-II/w/ III practice), management, and facility maintenance of AAALAC accredited facilities.
• Coordinate training needs and requirements for husbandry, veterinary, and cage wash technicians with department supervisors and the training department.
• Create and maintain reports, forms, budgets, and communications utilizing a computer and software, i.e., Outlook, Excel, and Word.
• Establishing liaison and communicating with the Contract Office Representative, Project Manager, Facility Managers, compliance assurance entities, Veterinarians, and research staff.
• Conduct Quality Assurance inspections.
• Create action plans to manage the Task work, provide multiple department supervisors with the proper resources to perform, report and submit required contract documentation to maintain task specific requirements.
• Fundamental knowledge of medical terminology, veterinary care and procedures, laboratory animal husbandry, administrative management and human resources, and recruiting.
• Design, plan and organize disaster preparedness documentation emergency procedures for government closures.
• Responsible to establish, adjust, report, and monitor performance goals and standards for each department.
• Knowledge and skills in recruiting, retention methods and performance management of employees.
• Ensure health and safety training guidelines are being instructed and followed.
• Assuring that personnel adhere to security procedures and confidentiality requirements.
• Assisting when requested, in experimental planning and logistics and scheduling of projects.
• Demonstrate use of good leadership, team building and management skills, setting an example, professional communication, counseling, conflict resolution.
• Plan and control of staff resources on the floor or area to assure coverage of all tasks.
• Assure compliance with facility SOP’s, and Federal and Local laws.
• Supporting and maintaining the established employee training program which includes documenting employee progress and deficiencies.
• Oversight and awareness of each department’s strengths and technical abilities, identifying areas requiring additional training or expertise to broaden the scope of support services available.
• Maintain a current knowledge of existing and proposed laws, regulations, and guidelines affecting the care and use of animals.
• Maintaining a broad general knowledge and competence in laboratory animal veterinary technician support, non-human and small animal husbandry, technical procedures, surgery support and facility management.
• Assuring that personnel are aware of and compliant with DVR SOPs, NIH policies, regulations, safety, and security procedures.
• Monitor and report overtime to the government.
• Any duties or task as delegated from the Program Manager or government management.

SUPERVISES:

• All Task employees.

RELATIONSHIPS

A. Internal:

• POS Supervisors
• Contract Management Team

B. External:

1. Principal Investigators

2. Client Facility Managers

3. Task Project Officer(s)

4. Veterinary staff

SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

• High School diploma or GED and A.A. degree in related field, B.S. in Biology or Animal Science preferred at the PM Level II-IV
• American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) certification at the Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG) and/or CMAR level with at least 5 years supervisory or management experience in an animal facility with a focus on veterinary technical support.
• Specialized knowledge and skill with non-human primates, rodents, other various species, biohazards, veterinary care and procedures, and surgery support.
• Ability to manage and supervise multiple and complex labor categories.
• Business command of the English language both written and spoken,

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Must be able to lift 50 pounds Sometimes

Lifting Most of the time

Bending Most of the time

Walking Most of the time

Standing Most of the time

Stooping Most of the time

Kneeling Sometimes

Sitting Sometimes

JOB TITLE:                  Animal Facility Manager

SUMMARY:  The Animal Facility Manager will ensure the contract is managed and oversight provided to all staff.  The Animal Facility Manager is responsible for the daily operations of the vivarium and support areas. They must take ownership of area operations and error resolution to ensure that daily obligations are completed. They will maintain budgets, reports, performance records, are area documentation.  Submitting all required documentation to maintain specific requirements. They are responsible for the coaching, directing, teaching and performance correction of all personnel. The Animal Facility Manager will maintain a professional business appearance and demeanor while performing or attending business functions.  

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS:

Work Assignments are based on work requirements to meet the contract needs, which may include the following duties:

• Provide competent and reasonable direction and oversight to all positions at the facility.
• Provide periodic after-hours care as required.
• Successfully organize and manage multiple rodent and large animal colonies and support areas.
• Knowledge in operations (ABSLI-II), management, and facility maintenance of AAALAC accredited facilities.
• Knowledge of intensive care and monitoring equipment.
• Knowledge of intubation, vital monitoring, and triage of large animals.  
• Create and maintain reports, forms, budgets, and communications utilizing a computer and software, i.e., Outlook, Excel, and Word.
• Establishing liaison and communicating with the animal care staff, veterinarians, and research staff.
• Create action plans to manage the Task work, provide staff with the proper resources to perform, report and submit required contract documentation to maintain task specific requirements.
• Fundamental knowledge of medical terminology, administrative management, and human resources, and recruiting.
• Design, plan and organize disaster preparedness documentation emergency procedures for government closures.
• Responsible to set, adjust, report and monitor performance goals and standards.
• Knowledge and skills in recruiting, retention methods and performance management of employees.
• Ensure health and safety training guidelines are being instructed and followed.
• Assuring that personnel adhere to security procedures and confidentiality requirements.
• Assisting when requested, in experimental planning and logistics and scheduling of projects. 
• Demonstrate use of good leadership, team building and management skills, setting an example, professional communication, counseling, conflict resolution.
• Plan and control of staff resources on the floor or area to assure coverage of all tasks.
• Conduct Quality Assurance inspections.
• Assure compliance with facility SOP’s, and Federal and Local laws.
• Supporting and maintaining the established employee training program which includes documenting employee progress and deficiencies.
• Oversight and awareness of each team member’s strengths and technical abilities, identifying areas requiring additional training or expertise to broaden the scope of support services available.
• Maintain a current knowledge of existing and proposed laws, regulations, and guidelines affecting the care and use of animals.
• Maintaining a broad general knowledge and competence in lab animal science husbandry, technical procedures, and facility management.
• Assuring that personnel are aware of and compliant with policies, regulations, safety, and security procedures.
• Monitor and report overtime to university management.
• Any duties or task as delegated from Program Management or government management.

SUPERVISES:

1. All Task employees

SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

1. High School diploma or GED and A.A. degree in related field, B.S. in Biology or Animal Science preferred at the PM Level
2. American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) certification at the Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG) level preferred with at least 4-6 years supervisory or management experience in an animal facility.
3. Specialized knowledge and skill in multiple species as it pertains to husbandry, care, and housing requirements.
4. Ability to proficiently operate intensive care and monitoring equipment for all laboratory animals.
5. Ability to manage and supervise multiple and complex labor categories.
6. Business command of the English language both written and spoken.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Must be able to lift 50 pounds                Sometimes

Lifting                                                   Most of the time

Bending                                                Most of the time

Walking                                                Most of the time

Standing                                               Most of the time

Stooping                                               Most of the time

Kneeling                                               Sometimes

Sitting                                                   Sometimes

POSITION TITLE: Cagewash Technician I

LOCATION: Cagewash Technician, Durham, NC

SUPERVISOR: Cagewash Supervisor

Summary

Under the direction of the Manager/Supervisor the Cagewash Technicians shall have the physical strength and dexterity to handle cages, racks, pans, feed bags, carts, dollies, and other equipment and be able to maintain a clean environment.
Requirements

• High School Diploma or General Education Diploma (GED).
• Must have some knowledge of the following equipment: autoclaves, automated cage washing machines conveyors, bedding disposal, bottle fillers, and rack flush station, etc.
• Must be able to work with various cleaning and sanitizing chemicals.
• Literate in written and spoken English.
• Must be willing and able to sit and pass the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) certification at the Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) level after one year of employment.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• Ability to cooperate with co-workers and function productively with others in accomplishing assigned tasks.
• Ability to function in a customer-client atmosphere, i.e., assists the company in providing positive responses to customer needs and delivery of quality services to the customer.
• Ability to follow through on instructions.

Duties:

Work Assignments are based on work requirements to meet the contract needs, which may include the following duties:

• Clean, sanitize, or sterilize caging or equipment utilizing automated cagewash machines, autoclaves, bottle fillers, and bedding dump stations.
• Dispose of waste in compliance with university and federal/state regulations.
• Minor/preventative maintenance of caging and equipment.
• Movement/delivery of feed/bedding sacks, cages, racks, pans, carts, dollies, and other equipment.
• Assure that procedures and practices involving the program of animal care are appropriate for the establishment and continued maintenance of AAALAC accreditation.
• Adhere to security procedures and confidentiality requirements.
• Ensure performance of activities in adherence with established SOPs.
• Participate in the ongoing employee training program, with special emphasis on safety and health training, safe work practices, and use of personal protective equipment.
• Perform job tasks/duties in compliance with university policies, regulations, safety, and security procedures.
• Perform equipment calibration and Quality Assurance (QA) as directed.
• Compliance with the QA/Quality Control (QC) program.
• Be at assigned work station by prescribed start time.
• Operate Rack washer according to SOP as directed.
• Operate Tunnel washer according to SOP as directed.
• Fill water bottles and build cages according to SOP as directed.
• Clean and sanitize cage wash and support areas as needed during the day, and at the end of day.
• Perform work in compliance with applicable safety requirements, (proper PPE, hearing protection).
• Adherence to equipment sanitation and sterilization schedules (preventive maintenance, chlorine and pH test).
• Assure that records, log books, and other project records are appropriately maintained.
• Observe and report any problems with equipment or the facilities to your supervisor.
• Perform sterilization and environmental monitoring tasks in accordance with established SOPs.
• Complete all required sanitation logs and checklists.
• Any other duties or task delegated by the contract or government management.

Hours: Basic work-week of forty (40) hours per week with the start and the end of the workday dependent on the contract requirements of the workplace. Hours are relatively inflexible and are dictated by the institutional research schedule. Relatively weekend and holiday work is required. Must be reliable in attendance to ensure animals receive appropriate level of care. Potential for call-in to assist facility or animal health related emergencies.

Lifting/Moving Requirements:

Heavy work; lifting up to 50 pounds occasionally; repetitive lifting/manipulation of up to 30 pounds, applying up to 30 pounds constantly to move/roll objects.

Environmental Conditions:

Customarily performs animal care, research management and administration duties in an environmentally controlled work area. However, technical and management duties may be performed in an animal care vivarium, barrier facility, surgical or test procedure laboratory, animal housing/bedding cleaning and processing areas. Work may require use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) in these facilities. Laboratory environment and/or animal care work areas may be prone to hot and humid conditions, and subject to objectionable odors, aerosols, dust, animal dander, and noise.

POSITION TITLE:              Cagewash/ Nonhuman Primate Technician    

LOCATION:                         DVR Cagewash Technician, Bethesda, MD

SUPERVISOR:                     Priority One Management

Summary

Under the direction of the Manager/Supervisor the Cagewash Technicians shall have the physical strength and dexterity to handle cages, racks, pans, feed bags, carts, dollies, and other equipment and be able to maintain a clean environment. 

Requirements

• High School Diploma or General Education Diploma (GED).
• Must have some knowledge of the following equipment: autoclaves, automated cage washing machines conveyors, bedding disposal, bottle fillers, and rack flush station, etc.
• Must be able to work with various cleaning and sanitizing chemicals.
• Ability to work with nonhuman primates.
• Literate in written and spoken English.
• Must be willing and able to sit and pass the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) certification at the Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) level after one year of employment.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• Ability to cooperate with co-workers and function productively with others in accomplishing assigned tasks.
• Ability to function in a customer-client atmosphere, i.e., assists the company in providing positive responses to customer needs and delivery of quality services to the customer.
• Ability to follow through on instructions.

Duties:

Work Assignments are based on work requirements to meet the contract needs, which may include the following duties:

• Clean, sanitize, or sterilize caging or equipment utilizing automated cagewash machines, autoclaves, bottle fillers, and bedding dump stations.
• Dispose of waste in compliance with university and federal/state regulations.
• Minor/preventative maintenance of caging and equipment.
• Movement/delivery of feed/bedding sacks, cages, racks, pans, carts, dollies, and other equipment.
• Transfer nonhuman primates between cages.
• Observe nonhuman primates for signs of stress or abnormal health conditions.
• Ensure that nonhuman primates are securely placed in appropriate caging.
• Assure that procedures and practices involving the program of animal care are appropriate for the establishment and continued maintenance of AAALAC accreditation.
• Adhere to security procedures and confidentiality requirements.
• Ensure performance of activities in adherence with established SOPs.
• Participate in the ongoing employee training program, with special emphasis on safety and health training, safe work practices, and use of personal protective equipment.
• Perform job tasks/duties in compliance with university policies, regulations, safety, and security procedures.
• Perform equipment calibration and Quality Assurance (QA) as directed.
• Compliance with the QA/Quality Control (QC) program.
• Be at assigned workstation by prescribed start time.
• Operate Rack washer according to SOP as directed.
• Operate Tunnel washer according to SOP as directed.
• Fill water bottles and build cages according to SOP as directed.
• Clean and sanitize cage wash and support areas as needed during the day, and at the end of day.
• Perform work in compliance with applicable safety requirements, (proper PPE, hearing protection).
• Adherence to equipment sanitation and sterilization schedules (preventive maintenance, chlorine and pH test).
• Assure that records, logbooks, and other project records are appropriately maintained.
• Observe and report any problems with equipment or the facilities to your supervisor.
• Perform sterilization and environmental monitoring tasks in accordance with        established SOPs.
• Complete all required sanitation logs and checklists.
• Any other duties or task delegated by the contract or university management.

Hours:  Basic work week of forty (40) hours per week with the start and the end of the workday dependent on the contract requirements of the workplace.  Hours are relatively inflexible and are dictated by the institutional research schedule.  Relatively weekend and holiday work are required. Must be reliable in attendance to ensure animals receive appropriate level of care. Potential for call-in to assist facility or animal health related emergencies.

Physical Requirements:

Lifting/Moving Requirements:

Heavy work; lifting up to 50 pounds occasionally; repetitive lifting/manipulation of up to 30 pounds, applying up to 30 pounds constantly to move/roll objects.

Environmental Conditions:

Customarily performs animal care, research management and administration duties in an environmentally controlled work area.  However, technical and management duties may be performed in an animal care vivarium, barrier facility, surgical or test procedure laboratory, animal housing/bedding cleaning and processing areas. Work may require use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) in these facilities.  Laboratory environment and/or animal care work areas may be prone to hot and humid conditions, and subject to objectionable odors, aerosols, dust, animal dander, and noise. 

Summary

The Animal Health Technician II will provide surgical, technical, and clinical support services under the direction of the Senior Animal Health Team Leader or respective Animal Health Technician III. They must demonstrate a working knowledge of veterinary science and technology (e.g., first aid response, pharmacy and pharmacology, treatment, and examination) as well as technical experience and competency in surgical nursing, preparation and assisting, anesthesiology, nursing, laboratory procedures and radiology Experience should be related to the species housed in the Building 49 CAF.  Animal Health Technician II will assist the Animal Health Leaders in providing all animal health services.

Requirements

Preferred personnel be certified by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) as a Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG). Qualifications as a Licensed Veterinary Technician, Military Animal Care Specialist (91T), or degrees in veterinary medicine/science will be considered but individuals will be eligible to obtain certification at the LATG level within 2-4 years. Work experience must include four years’ experience in laboratory animal facilities.  Experience must be related to the species housed in the Building 49 CAF (e.g., Rodents, Rabbits, 13-lined Ground Squirrels, Zebrafish, Sand Rats, Swine, and Non-Human Primates). Formal education shall include a minimum of a high school diploma or GED equivalent with working knowledge computers and associated software (e.g., WordPerfect, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Electronic Mail).

Duties

• Adhere to established Bldg 49 Standard Operating Procedures.
• Work tactfully and effectively with Co-Workers and Laboratory Staff.
• Routine animal health surveillance and/or assessment of sick animals.
• Routine veterinary care/support and treatments as prescribed by the Veterinary Staff.
• Maintains permanent animal health records and reports.
• Diagnostic support to include sample collection and preparation (e.g., blood, serum, tissue, etc.), fecal analysis, hematology, blood chemistry, urinalysis, radiology, and dental prophylaxis.
• Work under ABS Level I and II conditions.
• Anesthesia support to include induction, maintenance, and recovery of animals.
• Surgical support to include instrument preparation and sterilization, animal preparation, sterile and non-sterile scrub assistants for the support of aseptic surgeries.
• Environmental enrichment activities.
• Sanitation of surgical rooms and support areas.
• Radiation monitoring of posted rooms and/or areas within the CAF.
• Routine preventive maintenance of all surgical support equipment (e.g., intensive care units, anesthesia machines, etc.).
• Perform technical procedures including but not limited to routine injections, blood collection, tumor observations, weighing of animals, and implantation of subcutaneous transponders.
• Pre-procedural food and/or water restriction of animals.
• Routine serology screening for rodent surveillance and quarantine rooms.
• Identify and report potential problem areas with personnel, equipment, or facilities.
• Operate a computer to enter animal related data. Use of Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Word, and Microsoft Excel.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Food/waterlogs- email out an issues/follow up.
• Perform Rabbit PE/weights (bi-monthly)
• Perform Ground squirrel physicals (monthly)
• Perform Swine physicals (monthly)
• Assist Animal Health Team Leaders in meeting contractual obligations and deliverables.
• Other duties as assigned.

Hours:  Basic workweek of forty (40) hours per week with the start and the end of the workday dependent on the contract requirements of the workplace.  Hours dictated by the institutional research schedule, weekend and holiday work maybe required. Must be reliable in attendance to ensure animals receive appropriate level of care. Potential for call-in to assist facility or animal health related emergencies. Potential to provide weekend coverage if there is short staffing and unable to find replacements.  

Physical Requirements:

Lifting/Moving Requirements:

Light work; lifting to 50 pounds occasionally; repetitive lifting/manipulation of up to 10 pounds, applying up to 10 pounds constantly to move/roll objects.

Environmental Conditions:

Customarily performs animal care, research management and administration duties in an environmentally controlled work area.  However, technical and management duties may be performed in an animal care vivarium, barrier facility, surgical or test procedure laboratory, animal housing/bedding cleaning and processing areas. Work may require use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) in these facilities.  Laboratory environment and/or animal care work areas may be prone to hot and humid conditions, and subject to objectionable odors, aerosols, dust, animal dander, and noise. 

POSITION TITLE:               Small Animal Care Technician

LOCATION:                          NIH/DVR 14 Area

 SUPERVISOR:                    Floor Supervisor

JOB SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Floor Supervisor the Animal Care Technician shall have demonstrated knowledge and skill in handling animals, especially rodents and rabbits.  They shall be able to recognize the appearance of abnormal animals and be able to maintain a clean environment for all animals. In addition, this person will also be responsible for assisting investigators, keeping appropriate records, and providing supplies when requested. The Animal Care Technician shall maintain accurate room logs and maintain the cleanliness of the facility.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS:

1. Must have a High School Diploma or GED.
2. Must have AALAS Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician certification or one year’ experience in a laboratory animal facility, animal hospital, zoo, or related animal field.  All Animal Care Technician’s shall train and become ALAT certified within one year of employment. 
3. Candidates must possess an excellent command of the English language both written and verbal in order to effectively communicate with investigators and other staff members daily.

RESPONSIBLITIES AND DUTIES:

Essential Duties:

• Provide animal care and husbandry services, including but not limited to:  feeding and watering animals; handling and restraint of animals, cage and bedding changeouts; cleaning and sanitizing animal rooms, hallways, ancillary equipment; monitoring environmental parameters as required; assessing the presence of vermin and effectiveness of control efforts; performing animal health checks; assisting in the local delivery and transport of animals; assisting in the inspection ad storage of feed and bedding materials; performing minor equipment and facility maintenance.
• Observe and report any abnormalities in animals, equipment, or facilities to the floor supervisor or the Project Manager.
• Perform husbandry, restraint, and environmental monitoring tasks in accordance with established NIH SOPs
• Ensure that procedures and practices involving the program of animal care are appropriate for the continued maintenance of AAALACi accreditation of the NIH facilities.
• Adhere to security procedures and confidentiality requirements.
• Assist, when requested, in experimental planning and logistics and scheduling of projects.
• Participate in the ongoing employee training program, with special emphasis on safety and health training, safe work practices, and use of personal protective equipment.
• Perform job tasks and duties in compliance with NIH “Guide”, facility policies, regulations, safety, and security procedures.
• Perform work in compliance with applicable safety requirements.
• Adhere to equipment sanitation and sterilization schedules.
• Ensure that records, logbooks and other project records are appropriately and contemporaneously maintained.
• Comply with the QA/QC program.
• Recommend changes in operational procedures that might increase the efficiency or effectiveness of work procedures or practices.

.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to climb, reach, stoop, bend and stand for prolong period of time.

 Lifting/Moving Requirements – up to 50 pounds

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Animal care and technical duties will be performed mainly indoors in an animal care vivarium, barrier facility, surgical or test procedure laboratory facility, or animal housing/bedding cleaning and processing areas. Work may require use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) in these facilities.  Laboratory environment and/or animal care work areas may be prone to hot and humid conditions, and subject to objectionable odors, aerosols, dust, animal dander, and noise

Summary

Under the direction of the Manager/Supervisor the Facility Support Specialist/ Cagewash Technician shall have the physical strength and dexterity to handle cages, racks, pans, feed bags, carts, dollies, and other equipment and be able to maintain a clean environment. 

Requirements

• High School Diploma or General Education Diploma (GED).
• Must have some knowledge of the following equipment: autoclaves, automated cage washing machines conveyors, bedding disposal, bottle fillers, and rack flush station, etc.
• Must be able to work with various cleaning and sanitizing chemicals.
• Literate in written and spoken English.
• Must be willing and able to sit and pass the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) certification at the Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) level after one year of employment.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• Ability to cooperate with co-workers and function productively with others in accomplishing assigned tasks.
• Ability to function in a customer-client atmosphere, i.e., assists the company in providing positive responses to customer needs and delivery of quality services to the customer.
• Ability to follow through on instructions.

Duties:

Work Assignments are based on work requirements to meet the contract needs, which may include the following duties:

• Clean, sanitize, or sterilize caging or equipment utilizing automated cagewash machines, autoclaves, bottle fillers, and bedding dump stations.
• Dispose of waste in compliance with university and federal/state regulations.
• Minor/preventative maintenance of caging and equipment.
• Movement/delivery of feed/bedding sacks, cages, racks, pans, carts, dollies, and other equipment.
• Assure that procedures and practices involving the program of animal care are appropriate for the establishment and continued maintenance of AAALAC accreditation.
• Adhere to security procedures and confidentiality requirements.
• Ensure performance of activities in adherence with established SOPs.
• Participate in the ongoing employee training program, with special emphasis on safety and health training, safe work practices, and use of personal protective equipment.
• Perform job tasks/duties in compliance with university policies, regulations, safety, and security procedures.
• Perform equipment calibration and Quality Assurance (QA) as directed.
• Compliance with the QA/Quality Control (QC) program.
• Be at assigned work station by prescribed start time.
• Operate Rack washer according to SOP as directed.
• Operate Tunnel washer according to SOP as directed.
• Fill water bottles and build cages according to SOP as directed.
• Clean and sanitize cage wash and support areas as needed during the day, and at the end of day.
• Perform work in compliance with applicable safety requirements, (proper PPE, hearing protection).
• Adherence to equipment sanitation and sterilization schedules (preventive maintenance, chlorine and pH test).
• Assure that records, log books, and other project records are appropriately maintained.
• Observe and report any problems with equipment or the facilities to your supervisor.
• Perform sterilization and environmental monitoring tasks in accordance with        established SOPs.
• Complete all required sanitation logs and checklists.
• Any other duties or task delegated by the contract or university management.

Hours:  Basic work-week of forty (40) hours per week with the start and the end of the workday dependent on the contract requirements of the workplace.  Hours are relatively inflexible and are dictated by the institutional research schedule.  Relatively weekend and holiday work is required. Must be reliable in attendance to ensure animals receive appropriate level of care. Potential for call-in to assist facility or animal health related emergencies.

Physical Requirements:

Lifting/Moving Requirements:

Heavy work; lifting up to 50 pounds occasionally; repetitive lifting/manipulation of up to 30 pounds, applying up to 30 pounds constantly to move/roll objects.

Environmental Conditions:

Customarily performs animal care, research management and administration duties in an environmentally controlled work area.  However, technical and management duties may be performed in an animal care vivarium, barrier facility, surgical or test procedure laboratory, animal housing/bedding cleaning and processing areas. Work may require use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) in these facilities.  Laboratory environment and/or animal care work areas may be prone to hot and humid conditions, and subject to objectionable odors, aerosols, dust, animal dander, and noise. 

JOB SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Floor Supervisor the Animal Care Technician shall have demonstrated knowledge and skill in handling animals, especially dogs, pigs and Non-human Primates.  They shall be able to recognize the appearance of abnormal animals and be able to maintain a clean environment for all animals. In addition, this person will also be responsible for assisting investigators, keeping appropriate records, and providing supplies when requested. The Animal Care Technician shall maintain accurate room logs and maintain the cleanliness of the facility.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS:

1. Must have a High School Diploma or GED.
2. Must have AALAS Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician certification or one year’ experience in a laboratory animal facility, animal hospital, zoo, or related animal field.  All Animal Care Technician’s shall train and become ALAT certified within one year of employment. 
3. Candidates must possess an excellent command of the English language both written and verbal in order to effectively communicate with investigators and other staff members daily.

RESPONSIBLITIES AND DUTIES:

Essential Duties:

• Provide animal care and husbandry services, including but not limited to:  feeding and watering animals; handling and restraint of animals, cage and bedding changeouts; cleaning and sanitizing animal rooms, hallways, ancillary equipment; monitoring environmental parameters as required; assessing the presence of vermin and effectiveness of control efforts; performing animal health checks; assisting in the local delivery and transport of animals; assisting in the inspection ad storage of feed and bedding materials; performing minor equipment and facility maintenance.
• Observe and report any abnormalities in animals, equipment, or facilities to the floor supervisor or the Project Manager.
• Perform husbandry, restraint, and environmental monitoring tasks in accordance with established NIH SOPs
• Ensure that procedures and practices involving the program of animal care are appropriate for the continued maintenance of AAALACi accreditation of the NIH facilities.
• Adhere to security procedures and confidentiality requirements.
• Assist, when requested, in experimental planning and logistics and scheduling of projects.
• Participate in the ongoing employee training program, with special emphasis on safety and health training, safe work practices, and use of personal protective equipment.
• Perform job tasks and duties in compliance with NIH “Guide”, facility policies, regulations, safety, and security procedures.
• Perform work in compliance with applicable safety requirements.
• Adhere to equipment sanitation and sterilization schedules.
• Ensure that records, logbooks and other project records are appropriately and contemporaneously maintained.
• Comply with the QA/QC program.
• Recommend changes in operational procedures that might increase the efficiency or effectiveness of work procedures or practices.

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PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Animal care and technical duties will be performed mainly indoors in an animal care vivarium, barrier facility, surgical or test procedure laboratory facility, or animal housing/bedding cleaning and processing areas. Work may require use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) in these facilities.  Laboratory environment and animal care work areas may be prone to hot and humid conditions, and subject to objectionable odors, aerosols, dust, animal dander, and noise. 

Aquatic Facility Specialist I, NIH Decentralized Facility: NIH6, NIH6B, NIH10C, NIH14G, NIH49, NIH35 and NIH37.

Summary:

Under the direction of Project Management, the Aquatic Facility Specialist I will provide technical and husbandry services. Primary responsibilities include the provision of animal husbandry to aquatic species (Zebrafish, Xenopus & Cavefish) or any other aquatic or semi-aquatic species that may be utilized in biomedical research, the scheduling of procedure room usage, husbandry room activities, and storage room maintenance. Duties include maintaining/ troubleshooting housing systems, performing basic water quality tests, room sanitation and maintaining detailed records. Responsible for completing assigned duties according to established procedures, guidelines, and instructions. Aquatic Facility Specialists I will demonstrate the ability to interact with investigators and have experience with the type of research animals assigned to the area.

Requirements:

Bachelor of Science degree in biology or related field from a recognized, accredited institution; OR High school diploma/GED equivalent plus:  1 year experience working with aquatic species in a professional environment OR 6 months’ working with animals in biomedical research.  ALAT certified within 6 months of eligibility.

Duties:

• Adhere to established SOPs, NIH security procedures and confidentiality requirements
• Assist in the receipt of animal, supplies, feed, and bedding
• Assure accurate reporting and maintenance of routinely used items
• Identify and report potential problem areas with personnel, equipment, or facilities
• Support/comply with the QA/QC and Training programs
• Maintain a current knowledge of existing and proposed laws, regulations, and guidelines affecting the care and use of animals
• Communicate in English (both oral and written form) and demonstrate use of good leadership, team building and management skills
• Identifies/reports abnormalities (parasites, abnormal behavior, etc.) of aquatic species to Facility Veterinarian
• Technical service to include maintaining all aquatic support equipment, breeding schedules, stock/strain breeding, setup of fish breeding tanks for investigator use, and maintains all aquatics facilities
• Change aquatic holding tanks as per SOP to maintain appropriate water quality and provide visibility of animals for daily observations;
• Deliver dirty tanks to designated facilities for cagewash services
• Applies aquatic terminology in all methods of communication
• Safely and correctly handles and restrains animals for observation and/or minor procedures
• Maintains all aquatic holding systems and areas in clean condition without risk to research animals housed
• Inspect all rooms and common areas for damaged equipment and abnormal environmental parameters
• Identifies, documents, and reports any environmental abnormalities
• Accurately performs all in-house water quality tests. Applies knowledge of basic aquatic water chemistry
• Assist in coordinating the use of all aquatic procedure areas. This involves keeping the areas stocked with supplies, (e.g., crossing tanks, nets, screens, etc.).
• Applies knowledge of similarities and differences of types of aquatic holding systems
• Other duties as assigned

Hours:

Basic workweek of forty (40) hours per week with the start and the end of the workday dependent on the contract requirements of the workplace. Routine work hours are between 7:00am-4:30pm hours are dictated by the institutional research schedule weekend and holiday work to be scheduled on a rotating basis. Must be reliable in attendance to ensure animals receive appropriate level of care. Potential for call-in to assist facility or animal health related emergencies. Potential to provide weekend coverage if there is short staffing and unable to find replacements.

Environmental and Work Conditions:

Task employees shall work mostly indoors. However, employees may be required to work outside performing tasks associated with picking up and delivering animals, supplies and small equipment; transporting waste and recyclables; moving equipment into and out of remote storage locations; traveling from one facility to another; and climbing ladders. Locations of the decentralized facilities are: NIH6, NIH6B, NIH10C, NIH14G, NIH49, NIH35 and NIH37.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to perform the following physical activities: climbing, reaching, kneeling, standing, stooping, walking, sitting, pushing, pulling, hearing and talking. Must be able to lift/move 50 lbs.

Aquatic Facility Specialist II, NIH Decentralized Facilities: NIH6, NIH6B, NIH10C, NIH14G, NIH49, NIH35 and NIH37.

Summary:

Under the direction of Project Management, the Aquatic Facility Specialist II will provide technical and husbandry services. Primary responsibilities include the provision of animal husbandry to aquatic species (Zebrafish, Xenopus & Cavefish) or any other aquatic or semi-aquatic species that may be utilized in biomedical research, the scheduling of procedure room usage, husbandry room activities, and storage room maintenance. Duties include maintaining/ troubleshooting housing systems, performing basic water quality tests, room sanitation and maintaining detailed records. Responsible for completing assigned duties according to established procedures, guidelines, and instructions. Aquatic Facility Specialists II will demonstrate the ability to interact with investigators and have experience with the type of research animals assigned to the area.

Requirements:

Bachelor of Science degree in biology or related field from a recognized, accredited institution, plus 9 months’ experience working with aquatic species required; OR High school diploma/GED equivalent, plus 1.5 years’ experience working in an aquatic animal research environment.  LAT certified within 6 months of eligibility. Must be able to maintain all water holding systems. Effectively troubleshoots system problems. Recognize various parasites, abnormal clinical chemistry values, and abnormal behavior(s) of animals, correctly notifying the veterinarian immediately. Must have a working knowledge of computer software (e.g. Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, etc.)

Duties:

• Adhere to established SOPs, NIH security procedures and confidentiality requirements
• Assist in the receipt of animal, supplies, feed, and bedding
• Assure accurate reporting and maintenance of routinely used items
• Identify and report potential problem areas with personnel, equipment, or facilities
• Support/comply with the QA/QC and Training programs
• Maintain a current knowledge of existing and proposed laws, regulations, and guidelines affecting the care and use of animals
• Communicate in English (both oral and written form) and demonstrate use of good leadership, team building and management skills
• Identifies/reports abnormalities (parasites, abnormal behavior, etc.) of aquatic species to Facility Veterinarian
• Technical service to include maintaining all aquatic support equipment, breeding schedules, stock/strain breeding, setup of fish breeding tanks for investigator use, and maintains all aquatics facilities
• Change aquatic holding tanks as per SOP to maintain appropriate water quality and provide visibility of animals for daily observations;
• Deliver dirty tanks to designated facilities for cagewash services
• Applies aquatic terminology in all methods of communication
• Safely and correctly handles and restrains animals for observation and/or minor procedures
• Maintains all aquatic holding systems and areas in clean condition without risk to research animals housed
• Inspect all rooms and common areas for damaged equipment and abnormal environmental parameters
• Identifies, documents, and reports any environmental abnormalities
• Accurately performs all in-house water quality tests. Applies knowledge of basic aquatic water chemistry
• Assist in coordinating the use of all aquatic procedure areas. This involves keeping the areas stocked with supplies, (e.g., crossing tanks, nets, screens, etc.).
• Applies knowledge of similarities and differences of types of aquatic holding systems
• Other duties as assigned

Hours:

Basic workweek of forty (40) hours per week with the start and the end of the workday dependent on the contract requirements of the workplace. Routine work hours are between 7:00am-4:30pm hours are dictated by the institutional research schedule, weekend and holiday work to be scheduled on a rotating basis. Must be reliable in attendance to ensure animals receive appropriate level of care. Potential for call-in to assist facility or animal health related emergencies. Potential to provide weekend coverage if there is short staffing and unable to find replacements.

Environmental and Work Conditions:

Task employees shall work mostly indoors. However, employees may be required to work outside performing tasks associated with picking up and delivering animals, supplies and small equipment; transporting waste and recyclables; moving equipment into and out of remote storage locations; traveling from one facility to another; and climbing ladders. Locations of the decentralized facilities are: NIH6, NIH6B, NIH10C, NIH14G, NIH49, NIH35 and NIH37.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Must be able to perform the following physical activities; climbing, stooping, kneeling, reaching, standing, walking, sitting, pushing, pulling, hearing and talking. Must be able to lift/move up to 50 lbs.

ANIMAL RESEARCH TECHNICIAN (Richland, MI) Candidate will work with companion animals, specifically feline. Must have a high school diploma or equivalent, college degree in Animal Science preferred but not required, and at least two years experience in Biological Research working on in a laboratory animal facility with companion animals. Candidate should have experience working in ABSL1-2 facilities, collecting raw data, clinical observations, administering body weights, animal restraint, record keeping, dosing, and processing data utilizing “Good Laboratory Practices”. Candidate should have experience with biological processing (bloods and other fluids), interface with different departments on a daily basis, histology experience, blood collection and previous research experience is a plus. Candidate should have experience with mechanical machinery and operations and be able to perform physical labor involving the breaking down and setting up of heavy caging. Must be able to lift 40 lbs to 60 lbs, climb, stoop, bend, reach, and stand for prolonged periods. Be responsible and reliable to work independently when necessary, and maintain good customer relations. Demonstrated math and reading comprehension and good oral and written communication skills are required, good organizational skills Self starter (motivated) Independent worker. Demonstrated computer skills preferred. This is a full-time position from the hours of Monday – Friday, some weekend and holiday hours maybe required. Qualified applicant will be expected to complete and pass an employee background check, regulated drug screen and physical prior to being hired. Job ID: ART-rMI

Candidate will work with livestock, must have a high school diploma or equivalent, college degree in Animal Science preferred but not required, and at least two years experience in Biological Research working on in a Bio-containment facility with livestock specifically cattle, goat, sheep and swine. The preferred candidate would have experience with farm equipment operation such as driving a skid steer/loader. Candidate should have experience working in ABSL1-2 facilities, collecting raw data, clinical observations, administering body weights, animal restraint, record keeping, dosing, and processing data utilizing “Good Laboratory Practices”. Candidate should have experience with mechanical machinery and operations and be able to perform physical labor involving the breaking down and setting up of heavy caging. Must be able to lift 40 lbs to 60 lbs, climb, stoop, bend, reach, and stand for prolonged periods. Be responsible and reliable to work independently when necessary, and maintain good customer relations. Demonstrated math and reading comprehension and good oral and written communication skills are required, good organizational skills Self starter (motivated) Independent worker. Demonstrated computer skills preferred. This is a full-time position from the hours of Monday – Friday, some weekend and holiday hours maybe required. Qualified applicant will be expected to complete and pass an employee background check, regulated drug screen and physical prior to being hired.