Animal Caregiver

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 23,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia is seeking applicants for multiple Animal Caregiver opportunities within the Center for Comparative Medicine (CCM). The Animal Caregiver role involves hands-on daily animal husbandry, sanitation, and facility care in Charlottesville, VA, with on-site duties and a rotating schedule that includes weekends and holidays.

No prior experience is required as CCM provides comprehensive training and opportunities for professional growth within the

Qualifications

• No prior experience required; comprehensive training provided.
• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• ALAT certificate preferred for applicants.

Responsibilities

• Perform daily animal husbandry tasks, including feeding, watering, and monitoring animal health.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation throughout the facility, including cage-washing and sterilization.
• Follow policies and procedures to ensure compliance and safety.
• Collaborate with veterinary and research staff under direct supervision.
• Work a rotating schedule that includes weekdays, weekends, and holidays.

Skills

Animal care

Attention to detail

Verbal and written communication

ALAT preferred

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

ALAT certificate (preferred)

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 medicinerelated 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.

Reference checks will be completed by UVA's third-party partner, SkillSurvey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required.

For questions about the application process, please contact Jessica Speth, Academic Recruiter.

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.