Animal Care Technician I

NorthernBio; Norton Shores (MI); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

NorthernBio is seeking an Animal Care Technician I to support research staff through essential husbandry, routine care, and data collection in a laboratory setting. This role involves handling animals, maintaining enclosures, and contributing to the smooth operation of the vivarium.

The candidate should have a High School Diploma or GED, be proficient with Microsoft Office, and able to work in a fast-paced environment. Flexibility for evenings or extended shifts may be required.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and ability to learn new applications.
• Strong teamwork and communication in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to adapt to changing study needs and tasks.

Responsibilities

• Maintain high welfare standards for laboratory animals.
• Clean and set up animal enclosures and equipment.
• Feed, water, and provide enrichment to animals as needed.
• Assist with restraint and handling of animals.
• Record daily observations and data in a laboratory information management system (LIMS).
• Receive animals on arrival and participate in vivarium maintenance.
• Perform routine health checks and assist with logistics as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Microsoft Office

Team Player

Adaptable

Coachable

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Tools

LIMS

Job description

The Animal Care Technician I will be engaged in basic animal husbandry, routine care, and maintenance of animal living quarters while supporting research staff in study-related tasks. Introduction to basic technical skills will also be required with minimal data management.

Role Responsibilities

• Ensure a high level of animal welfare and work to improve the quality of life for laboratory animals.
• Clean and set up enclosures, pens, trays, and equipment to keep animals clean and comfortable.
• Feed, water, and may provide enrichment to the animals.
• Assist with restraint, handling, and manipulation of animal species.
• Perform daily health observations to maintain quality and health of research animals
• Receive animals upon arrival at the facility.
• Participate in general vivarium maintenance activities, which may include pest control management.
• Collect and record data on paper and/or electronically in a laboratory information management system (LIMs) in accordance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) mainly related to colony studies
• Data collection may vary from detailed observations, body weights, and minimal blood collections.
• Other duties as assigned.

Role Requirements

• High School Diploma/GED required
• Proficient with Microsoft Office core applications and the ability to learn and use additional applications
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, highly dynamic environment
• Decision Making/Problem Solving
• Team Player
• Coachable

Special Requirements

• This role works predominately in a laboratory setting. There will be exposure to animal pathogens and chemicals. There will be handling of and/or exposure to animal tissues and zoonotic organisms.
• Ability to don and wear personal protective gear, including N95 respirators.
• Physical activity includes lifting (up to 50lbs), carrying (up to 40lbs for up to 50 feet), pushing/pulling (up to 75lbs force), reaching, gripping/pinching, standing, and ascending a ladder without restriction.
• Ability to work beyond typical work schedule including but not limited to evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended shifts with short notice.