Laboratory Animal Technician - College of Engineering - Biomedical Engineering

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to solving complex challenges. The Biomedical Engineering (BME) Department emphasizes the integration of engineering principles with biomedical sciences to address pressing medical and biological issues, creating impactful technologies and therapies that improve patient care globally.

About the role

The Biomedical Engineering (BME) Department is seeking a laboratory animal technician to support multiple laboratory animal studies involving mice, rats, rabbits, pigs, and sheep. This role will provide high-quality animal care, assist with research procedures, and ensure compliance with institutional, federal, and regulatory standards while working closely with Dr. Keith Cook’s surgical research manager and research staff.

Responsibilities

• Ensure all animal-related activities comply with IACUC-approved protocols, institutional policies, and applicable regulatory standards (e.g., USDA, AAALAC, NIH).
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation of animal care, health observations, procedures, and study activities.
• Assist with treatment administration, post-procedural monitoring, and recovery care as directed.
• Support research procedures including animal handling and restraint, dosing, sample collection (e.g., blood and tissue), and data recording.
• Provide assistance with both surgical and non-surgical procedures under supervision, including anesthesia monitoring and perioperative care.
• Participate in behavioral training, acclimation protocols, and other study-specific procedures.
• Prepare, clean, maintain, and troubleshoot equipment, supplies, and procedure areas to ensure safe and efficient study execution.
• Assist with recruitment, onboarding, training, and acclimating research participants (staff/students) to the lab.
• Adhere strictly to biosafety, PPE, and sanitation practices.
• Collaborate effectively with veterinarians, researchers, and animal care staff across multiple studies, and assist in training new staff and students in proper animal handling and basic research procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support study needs and animal welfare.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree or Veterinary Technician degree/certificate or equivalent training.
• 1-3 years of hands-on animal care, handling, and restraint across multiple species.
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• AALAS certification (ALAT, LAT, or LATG); additional training in anesthesia monitoring or surgical assistance.
• Experience working with animals in a research or laboratory setting, assisting with anesthesia and surgical procedures, sample collection, and study documentation.
• Rodent and/or large animal experience.

Physical and Mental Requirements

• Ability to handle and restrain animals of varying sizes, including large animals (pigs, sheep).
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs and pull/push equipment as required.
• Visual acuity for detailed observations and recordkeeping.
• Ability to work under pressure, prioritize tasks, and respond to emergencies.

Working Conditions

• Required to stand and/or walk for extended periods and function in constricted spaces when needed.
• May be required to work irregular or extended hours, including nights, weekends, and emergency calls depending on study needs.
• Routine exposure to biological materials, anesthetic agents, and cleaning/disinfecting chemicals.
• May be required to travel to off-campus or remote study locations.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions.
• Tuition benefits.
• Ample paid time off and observed holidays.
• Life and accidental death and disability insurance.
• Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass.
• Access to Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs.
• Fitness center access.

Pay

Hourly, full-time position.

Schedule

Full time, fixed-term staff position. May require irregular or extended hours, including nights, weekends, and emergency calls.

Location: Pittsburgh, PA