Animal Behavior Technician I - Habituation & Enrichment

Charles River Laboratories, Inc.; Shrewsbury (MA); On-site; USD 24,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Charles River Laboratories, Inc. is seeking an Animal Support Behavior Technician I (Habituation Technician) to join the Veterinary Services team.

You will assist with acclimation, enrichment, and conditioning to prepare animals for study procedures, supporting welfare and high-quality care. The role is full-time, Monday–Friday, 9:30 AM–6:00 PM (or 10:00 AM–6:30 PM) with occasional overtime, based in a research and animal care environment.

Qualifications

• Experience with animals in research, husbandry or veterinary settings.
• Ability to safely handle common laboratory animal species.
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct hands-on training and habituation sessions with research animals.
• Use positive reinforcement to familiarize animals with people and handling.
• Prepare animals for routine procedures with gradual exposure.
• Observe behavior and adjust approaches as needed.
• Provide positive human interaction and behavioral support.
• Support weighing, transport, and enclosure checks as needed.
• Prepare enrichment items and materials for training sessions.
• Assist with animal movements and weight data collection.
• Maintain accurate session documentation and observations.
• Communicate observations and opportunities for improvement to the team.

Skills

Animal care

Behavioral management

Documentation

Record-keeping

Education

Associate degree in Animal Science/Life Sciences

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Charles River Laboratories, Inc. is seeking an Animal Support Behavior Technician I (Habituation Technician) to join the Veterinary Services team.

You will assist with acclimation, enrichment, and conditioning to prepare animals for study procedures, supporting welfare and high-quality care. The role is full-time, Monday–Friday, 9:30 AM–6:00 PM (or 10:00 AM–6:30 PM) with occasional overtime, based in a research and animal care environment.