Animal Cage & Equipment Sanitation Tech

California Institute of Technology; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 31,000; Full time

Job summary

California Institute of Technology is seeking a Research Support Assistant focused on cleaning animal cages and related equipment. The role ensures cage wash areas remain organized, compliant with SOPs, AAALAC, NIH, and USDA standards, and supports sanitation/sterilization processes with effective communication.

This Essential Reporting position requires preparing sanitized cages, maintaining equipment, and documenting sanitation activities in a timely manner.

Qualifications

• Pre-employment medical clearance required; participation in Occupational Health program with vaccinations (e.g., MMR) and routine TB testing.
• Ability to stand, walk, lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work under environmental conditions such as heat, wet/humid, and exposure to animal dander, odors, and chemicals.
• Six months of relevant experience or training (preferred).
• Demonstrated organizational, verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to operate SOP-driven cage wash equipment such as bottle fillers, floor scrubbers, autoclaves, and pH meters.

Responsibilities

• Process soiled cages and ancillary equipment for cleaning and prepare sanitized/sterilized cages for reuse.
• Operate rack/tunnel washers and autoclave; apply cleaning products per SOPs.
• Maintain clean/soiled equipment and traffic separation per SOPs.
• Complete all sanitation and sterilization documentation within defined timeframes.
• Work safely using required PPE.
• Prioritize workload and align with cage/equipment change-out schedules.
• Use environmental detectors to verify cleaning efficacy.
• Work mainly under direct supervision.
• Prepare clean cage equipment for use.
• Maintain cage wash areas and storage areas in an organized, sanitary condition.
• Monitor inventory of chemicals and accessories; alert about shortages.
• Assist in unloading, stocking supplies including lab coats.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and notify supervision as needed.
• Assist in minor repairs and report malfunctions.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Job description

California Institute of Technology is seeking a Research Support Assistant focused on cleaning animal cages and related equipment. The role ensures cage wash areas remain organized, compliant with SOPs, AAALAC, NIH, and USDA standards, and supports sanitation/sterilization processes with effective communication.

This Essential Reporting position requires preparing sanitized cages, maintaining equipment, and documenting sanitation activities in a timely manner.