Cage Wash Technician

About the role

The Vivarium Cage Wash Technician position at Hourly Wage ISS is a full-time role offering a competitive hourly wage range of $18.00-$21.00 per hour, depending on experience. The work schedule is Monday through Friday plus weekends, from 6:30 AM to 3:30 PM.

Responsibilities

• Sanitize, sterilize, and prepare animal cages, racks, feeders, water bottles, and accessories for use.
• Set up animal housing according to Technical Training Guidelines (TTG) and facility requirements.
• Collect, transport, process, and distribute primary and secondary animal contact items.
• Manually clean portable equipment, small parts, and accessories.
• Ensure proper clean-to-dirty workflow to prevent cross-contamination.
• Operate tunnel washers, rack washers, and related cage wash equipment.
• Perform routine inspections and preventative maintenance on cage wash systems.
• Troubleshoot and report equipment issues to management.
• Maintain biological safety within cage wash operations.
• Perform GMP-compliant sanitization of vivarium and production spaces, including floors, walls, ceilings, curtains, and equipment surfaces.
• Empty waste containers and maintain sanitation throughout assigned areas.
• Maintain clean and organized workspaces.
• Perform minor repairs to caging systems, watering systems, and related equipment.
• Maintain and replace wheels and casters on cages and equipment as needed.
• Operate hand tools safely and effectively.
• Utilize pallet jacks and lift trucks to transport equipment and supplies.
• Complete documentation accurately and in accordance with GDP and GMP requirements.
• Adhere to all SOPs, safety procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain records related to cage processing, cleaning, maintenance, and sanitization activities.
• Participate in investigations, deviations, CAPA activities, and corrective actions when required.
• Escalate incidents, equipment failures, and operational concerns to supervision promptly.
• Work collaboratively with animal care staff, researchers, and facility customers.
• Provide professional customer service and support operational needs.
• Anticipate potential caging and equipment issues before they impact operations.
• Support facility operations during staffing shortages and special projects.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
• Ability to work in a highly regulated environment.
• Ability to follow written instructions, SOPs, and safety procedures.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, bend, reach, push, and pull for extended periods.
• Ability to wear required PPE for extended durations.
• Basic math and documentation skills.
• Ability to manage time effectively and work as part of a team.
• Ability to work flexible shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
• Ability to obtain and maintain vivarium access requirements, including required medical surveillance and vaccinations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Microsoft Teams, with the ability to complete documentation, communicate effectively, and manage daily work activities using these tools.

Qualifications

• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time (up to 2 hours at a time followed by a 15-minute break) over an entire 8- or 12-hour shift.
• Ability to climb ladders and stairs while wearing special gowning.
• Ability to push and pull up to 100 pounds (with assistance of material handling equipment).
• Ability to lift a minimum of 10 to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work under pressure and time deadlines during peak periods.
• Ability to work in a cold, wet environment.
• Ability to work rotating schedules that may include weekends, holidays, and overtime.
• Ability to work in a confined area.

Skills

• Strong attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Documentation Practices (GDP), AALAS guidelines, AAALAC standards, institutional procedures, and safety and biosafety requirements.

Benefits

• Comprehensive leave program based on employment status.
• Medical, dental, life, and disability insurance.

Pay

The hourly wage range for this position is $18.00 per hour - $21.00 per hour based on experience.

Schedule

The work schedule for this position is Monday through Friday plus weekends, from 6:30 AM to 3:30 PM.