Animal Care Technician

Drexel University; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Animal Caretaker Technician to ensure the humane treatment of laboratory animals. In this role, you'll provide daily care, maintain records, and assist in training staff. You'll be responsible for the cleanliness of animal housing and the safe use of equipment. This position is ideal for someone passionate about animal welfare and looking to grow in a supportive environment. Join a team committed to excellence in animal care and contribute to impactful research efforts.

Qualifications

• 1 year of relevant experience in animal care or related field.
• Knowledge of animal behavior and common practices in animal care.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily care and observation of laboratory animals.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of animal housing areas.
• Assist in training new staff and support veterinary procedures.

Skills

Animal Care

Record Keeping

Observation Skills

Routine Laboratory Tests

Training Skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Cage Wash Machine

Autoclave

Chemical Foamer

Heavy-duty Floor Buffer

Wet/Dry Vacuum

Centrifuge

Microscope

Job description

The ULAR Animal Caretaker Technician ensures the humane care and treatment of laboratory animals. It includes general husbandry practices, sanitation of the physical plant, animal observations, and record keeping. The incumbent also provides assistance and direction to junior staff and research technicians.

Essential Functions

• Provide primary care to animals on a daily basis including:
  • Observe animals and report any abnormalities to Supervisor of Animal Care, Veterinarian, and Principal Investigator
  • Maintain detailed animal records which include daily/weekly observations, monthly weights, laboratory procedures and any surgeries or illnesses
  • Responsible for providing food and water to all animals in his/her care (may be responsible for feeding special diets or providing special fluids)
  • Responsible for providing clean and appropriate housing for animals in his/her care
  • Responsible for receiving incoming animals which includes a primary health check, providing immediate housing and notifying the Principal Investigator
  • May be required to collect fecal or urine samples
  • May be required to help in the treatment of sick or injured animals, as well as vaccinating and maintaining healthy animals
  • Must have the ability to perform routine laboratory tests, e.g., blood counts and chemistries and microscopic examinations
  • Assist in training new employees and advising Animal Care Technician I
  • Assist Veterinarian and/or Veterinary Technician in performing treatments or procedures on animals
  • Assist the Veterinary Technician in maintenance and supply of the sterile operating room areas
• Responsible for the physical environment of animals including:
  • Clean and sanitize animal housing areas
  • Clean and sanitize animal cages as directed. This includes the operation of the cage wash machine and the autoclave
  • Clean and sanitize ancillary rooms in the animal facility including receiving, surgery, and recovery areas
  • Responsible for trash and waste removal consistent with University Laboratory Animal Resources (ULAR) Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Responsible for observing and recording the temperature and humidity of all animal housing areas
  • Responsible for observing and reporting any indications of vermin or pest infestation
  • Responsible for inventory of some supplies and equipment required by ULAR
• Responsible for the proper handling and safe use of all equipment operated in the animal facility
  • Cage Wash Machine: Used to sanitize racks, cages, and water bottles. Must keep accurate records to ensure proper temperature and cleaning capability
  • Autoclave: Used to sterilize caging and supplies. Records must also be kept to validate sterilization
  • Chemical Foamer: Used to apply cleaning and sanitizing agents
  • Heavy-duty floor buffer: Used to scrub and wax floors
  • Wet/Dry Vacuum: Used to remove debris and various liquids
  • Using moving equipment to transport animals, cages, and other ancillary items
  • Clothes Washer and Dryer: Used to wash and dry scrub suits linen and other materials
  • Knowledge of proper use, application, handling, and storage of all chemicals used throughout the facility is required
  • Knowledge of the use and care of common laboratory equipment, e.g. centrifuge, microscope, refractometer and the like are required
• Maintains confidentiality of workplace information according to policies and procedures of the institution
• Other Duties As Assigned

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED
• 1 year of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum of 1 year of animal-related experience preferred
• Must be dedicated to the humane care of laboratory animals
• Have knowledge of common practices of animal care
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks carefully and completely
• Motor coordination to grasp small animals to avoid injury to the animal or the handler
• Ability to disseminate relevant information to colleagues
• Must have knowledge of normal animal behavior
• Must become certified as AALAS Technologist within 1 year of employment or appointment to this position

Please make sure you upload your CV/resume and cover letter when submitting your application.

Review of applicants will begin once a suitable candidate pool is identified.