Animal Technician II

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is an independent, nonprofit organization providing adult cancer treatment and groundbreaking research focused on cancer and infectious diseases. Based in Seattle, Fred Hutch is the only National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in Washington. With a track record of global leadership in bone marrow transplantation, HIV/AIDS prevention, immunotherapy and COVID-19 vaccines, Fred Hutch has earned a reputation as one of the world’s leading cancer, infectious disease and biomedical research centers.

About the role

The Animal Technician II performs routine animal husbandry tasks and maintenance of animal facilities and equipment. This position is for individuals transitioning from other animal care roles, focusing on skill development. The incumbent works under the Animal Technician Lead, following established procedures. This role reports directly to the Animal Husbandry Manager and is classified as essential personnel, requiring minimal absences and availability during Center closures except in major disaster scenarios.

Responsibilities

• Independently perform daily care for all small animal species (mice, rats) in accordance with standard operating procedures.
• Evaluate animals’ general health and report abnormalities to veterinary staff.
• Perform animal husbandry procedures, including using and maintaining animal housing; master changing a minimum of 160 small cages per day.
• Learn and become proficient in animal husbandry in special care areas such as quarantine, radiation, BSL2, and Bio-bubble.
• Operate equipment washers, automatic water bottle filling systems, and autoclaves.
• Perform housekeeping duties such as sweeping, mopping, garbage removal, and equipment washing in animal housing areas.
• Follow appropriate sanitation procedures.
• Communicate effectively with research staff through verbal, written, or electronic means.
• Demonstrate intermediate knowledge of regulatory and safety regulations surrounding biomedical research.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Six months experience as an Animal Technician I or equivalent.
• Good verbal and written English communication skills.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to lift and move 50 lbs regularly and perform sustained physical activities such as bending, balancing, stooping, reaching, and standing for long periods.
• Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment including scrubs, gloves, shoe covers, gowns, ear plugs/muffs, face masks, and eye protection.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 2 years’ experience in lab animal or related field.
• Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Certification.

Pay

The hourly pay range for this position is from $23.33 to $33.21, based on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Retirement plans.
• Family life support and employee assistance program.
• Onsite health clinic.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Paid vacation (12-22 days per year).
• Paid sick leave (12-25 days per year).
• Paid holidays (13 days per year).
• Paid parental leave (up to 4 weeks).