Vivarium Manager

This is a full-time restricted University and Academic Professional position working in the Division of Animal Resources (DAR) facilities.

About the role

The Vivarium Manager is responsible for the day-to-day management of a rodent facility in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to minimize the chances of colony infections. This role ensures animals are cared for and maintained in compliance with Animal Welfare Regulations, U.S. Public Health Service Policy on the Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, and the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.

Responsibilities

• Direct daily activities of animal care technicians, ensuring husbandry tasks are completed correctly and in a timely fashion, including:
  • Receiving animals
  • Feeding and watering
  • Sanitation and cleaning
  • Handling and restraint
  • Health surveillance
  • Equipment maintenance
  • Supply inventories and ordering
• Ensure appropriate staff technical training, supervision, and evaluation.
• Develop and revise animal facility SOPs in conjunction with the Assistant Director – Operations.
• Ensure adherence to SOPs, quality assurance guidelines, and protocols.
• Communicate needs for facility equipment, logistical support, and management supervisors.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism, and civility with faculty, staff, and students from diverse backgrounds, or a commitment to do so.
• Significant experience working in an animal care facility.
• Ability to direct technicians and investigational staff in proper techniques required to maintain disease-free rodent colonies.
• Effective oral and written communication skills for interacting with staff, investigators, and supervisors.
• Proficiency in the use of Windows-based PCs, including Word, Excel, and email clients.
• Experience in rodent facilities management, biohazard containment (including ABSL2 operations), data management, and personnel management.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Qualifications

• Experience with facility start-up is a plus.
• Certification by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science as a Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG) preferred.
• Some level of post-secondary education strongly preferred.

Benefits

All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU’s robust benefits package, including:

• Comprehensive health benefits
• Paid annual and holiday leave
• Generous tuition benefits
• Retirement planning and savings options, including tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs
• Employee discounts
• Well-being resources
• Abundant opportunities for career development and advancement

Pay

Salary range: $64,000–$74,000.

Schedule

• Work is Monday through Friday, with hours scheduled between 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
• Weekends and holidays may be required.
• 40 hours per week.