Animal Care Trainee - Vivarium

About the role

The Division of Animal Resources at the Emory National Biomedical Research Center at Emory University is seeking a full-time Animal Care Trainee to assist with husbandry and daily operations of the rodent colony. The ideal candidate will be motivated, dependable, detail-oriented, and have a positive attitude with compassion for both animals and people. This position ensures the cleanliness of the facility, maintenance of supplies, and the highest quality of laboratory animal care and research support.

This position reports directly to the Animal Care Supervisor and is considered essential, requiring some weekend and holiday work as part of a rotating schedule.

Responsibilities

• Operate cage washers and ensure equipment is in proper working order.
• Assist in the collection of blood, urine, and feces from animals for medical research.
• Maintain cleanliness of the facility and adequate supplies of food, bedding materials, and PPE.
• Work collaboratively with other technicians according to a schedule prepared by the Associate Operations Manager, rotating through all Emory DAR facilities.
• Communicate effectively with co-workers, management, PIs, research staff, students, and other support services.
• Perform minor repairs and maintain the animal housing facility.
• Follow established guidelines for proper care and welfare of animals, adhering to AAALAC standards.
• Lift up to 75 pounds and move/push heavy racks short distances; bend, kneel, and/or squat as required.

Requirements

• Ability to read, write, and lift up to 75 pounds.
• Valid Georgia driver’s license and an insurable driving record (if required by the position).
• Willingness to work in an environment with continuous contact with animals and exposure to biohazards.
• Ability to work weekends and holidays as part of a rotating schedule.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in an animal research environment, preferably with rodents.
• Familiarity with animal observations, husbandry, and cagewash duties.
• Understanding of humane care and welfare guidelines for laboratory animals (AAALAC).
• Working knowledge of hygiene principles, safety protocols, and basic animal husbandry.
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to follow written and oral instructions in English.
• Certifications from the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS).
• Experience working in a biosafety environment.
• Proficiency in computer skills.

Schedule

7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with alternating weekends and holidays.

Working Environment

• Indoor/outdoor work environment; may require working in inclement weather conditions.
• Exposure to biohazards and potentially dangerous animals.
• Some exposure to hazards or physical risks, requiring adherence to basic safety precautions.