Animal Caregiver

University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 23,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Virginia seeks applicants for multiple Animal Caregiver opportunities within the Center for Comparative Medicine (CCM) in Charlottesville, VA. The role supports daily animal care, sanitation, and facility maintenance under supervision.

No prior experience is required as comprehensive training is provided. These 1-year restricted-term positions offer growth potential within UVA's animal care and research support fields, with on-site work and competitive starting wages.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Pre-employment health screening is required and must comply with UVA Health OCH-002 policy.
• No prior experience required; comprehensive training provided.
• Willingness to work rotating schedule including weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Perform daily animal husbandry tasks including feeding, watering, and health monitoring.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation throughout the facility, including cage-washing and sterilization.
• Follow policies to ensure compliance and safety.
• Collaborate with veterinary and research staff under direct supervision.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Team player

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

The University of Virginia seeks applicants for multiple Animal Caregiver opportunities within the Center for Comparative Medicine (CCM). The Animal Caregiver role is essential to maintaining the health and well-being of research animals through dedicated husbandry and facility care.

As an Animal Caregiver, you’ll be part of a hands-on, task-focused team responsible for daily animal care, sanitation, and facility maintenance. The work environment involves regular interaction with animals and their housing areas, which may include natural environmental conditions. Team members are also expected to limit personal phone use during shifts to maintain focus and provide consistent, high-quality care.

This position is ideal for individuals who are reliable, detail-oriented, and committed to animal welfare. No prior experience is required – comprehensive training is provided. CCM also offers opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the animal care and research support fields.

If you’re looking for meaningful work in a supportive environment with room to grow, we encourage you to apply!

Please note: these are 1-year restricted term positions with possibility of renewal based on funding and performance.

Responsibilities And Duties

• Perform daily animal husbandry tasks, including feeding, watering, and monitoring animal health.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation throughout the facility, including cage-washing, sterilization, and general upkeep.
• Follow all policies and procedures to ensure compliance and safety.
• Collaborate with veterinary and research staff and follow detailed instructions under direct supervision.
• Work a rotating schedule that includes weekdays, weekends, and holidays to ensure consistent care.
• Other duties may be assigned by your supervisor.

Minimum Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Vaccination: A pre-employment health screening is required to be cleared before starting in the position. This position requires compliance with UVA Health OCH-002 policy.

Preferred Requirements

• Preference will be given to applicants with lab or animal handling experience and those with an Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Certificate (ALAT)
• Strong attention to detail
• Verbal and written communication skills

Physical Demands

• Up to 25% of time: Kneeling, Squatting, Bending, Stooping, Twisting, Lifting Above & Below Waist, Light & Moderate Lifting - Up to 40 lbs., Carrying, Pushing & Pulling, Climbing Ladders & Stairs, Fine Finger Manipulation (Keyboarding, Pipefitting, Bench Work, Etc.).
• 26-50% of time: Traveling & Repetitive Motion.
• 51-75% of time: Standing for sustained periods of time, Use of Both Hands, Independent Use of Either Hand, Wrist Movement (Twisting or Rotating).
• Protective Clothing/Equipment Disposable Gloves, Protective Clothing, Surgical Mask, Ear Protection (including earplugs). Hearing protection is required when working with dogs, swine or in cage wash area.
• Sensory Requirements Vision (With and without corrective lenses), Depth Perception, Color Vision, Peripheral Vision, Near Vision, Hearing, Speaking.

Compensation

• Starting rate with no comparative medicine related experience: $17/hour.
• Starting rate with comparative medicine related experience: $17.50 - $19.50/hour (commensurate with experience).

This is a non-exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits. This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on-site.

Background checks and pre-employment health screening will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.

This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship at this time or in the future.

About UVA And The Community

To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.