Laboratory Animal Tech I.

About the role

The Laboratory Animal Technicians in the Center for Comparative Medicine and Research (CCMR) provide specific care to laboratory animals in a safe and sanitary manner in accordance with clearly defined direction and established federal, state, and local regulations, guidelines and policies on the use of laboratory animals in the conduct of biomedical research and to provide support for the research investigations. Note: This is a developmental position, involving intensive training and increased responsibility as the individual becomes proficient in the work. Upon completion of the training and when management determines full performance has been met, the incumbent may be promoted not-competitively to the next level.

Responsibilities

• Animal Care – Handles and cares for animals on a daily basis; observes and maintains an awareness of the physical needs of the animals and of their condition; reports changes in animal condition to the veterinary staff; communicates with the principal investigators and their technical staff concerning the status of their research animals; achieves competence in caring for and handling the variety of animal species housed in the Animal Resource Center. May administer medications under the direction of a veterinarian; may euthanize animals as needed.

• Facility/Habitat Maintenance – Cleans cages, utilizing washers other mechanical equipment; prepares caging and equipment for animal care; maintains the sanitary condition of the animals and their environment; decontaminates areas as needed; prepares chemicals as needed including mixing appropriate dilutions for different situations; performs light maintenance of the facilities such as replacement of bulbs, preventative maintenance of washers; emptying waste baskets and floor cleaning; maintains equipment maintenance logs.

• Environmental Control – Observes and records the condition of an animal’s environment, including temperature, air exchange, and light cycle; applies an understanding of the problem(s) created in an animal population by lack of any or all of the environmental factors.

• Administrative – Maintains proper medical records and inventory records on individual animals; maintains necessary documentation such as departmental time logs, animal husbandry logs, clinical incident forms, and room supply inventory need sheets; receives and properly stores feed and bedding, assuring appropriate rotation and inventory of feed and bedding; participates in in-house training programs.

Qualifications

• Demonstrates professionalism and collegiality through actions, interactions, and communications with others appropriate to an environment that is welcoming to all.

• Performs other duties as assigned.