Cage Wash Attendant

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 19,320 - 27,517; Full time

Job summary

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia in Charlottesville seeks a Cage Wash Attendant to support high-quality animal care. The role includes operating cage-washing equipment, maintaining cleanliness in animal housing environments, and ensuring compliance with research standards.

This physically demanding position requires continuous activity and attention to detail. Training is provided for candidates with no previous experience. Starting pay is $17.00 per hour with opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• No prior experience is required; comprehensive training is provided.
• Pre‑employment health screening required.
• Interest in pursuing ALAT certification is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Empty soiled bedding and process caging through washers.
• Prepare clean caging and sterilize per standards.
• Maintain cleaning of cage wash and storage rooms.

Skills

Attention to detail

Effective communication

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

The University of Virginia seeks applicants for Cage Wash Attendant opportunities within the Center for Comparative Medicine (CCM). Cage Wash Attendants play a critical role in supporting high‑quality animal care by ensuring that all caging, equipment, and sanitation processes meet strict research and welfare standards.

As a Cage Wash Attendant, you'll be part of a hands‑on, task‑focused team responsible for operating cage‑washing equipment, maintaining clean and sanitary environments, and supporting the smooth functioning of the facility. This position involves physical activity, routine exposure to warm and humid environments, and working directly with equipment used in animal facilities. Team members are expected to limit personal phone use during shifts to maintain safety and focus.

This role is ideal for individuals who are reliable, detail‑oriented, and motivated to contribute to essential research support services. No prior experience is required – comprehensive training is provided, and CCM offers opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

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

Responsibilities and Duties

• Empty soiled bedding, process caging through automated cage washers, and properly dispose of bedding using required PPE.
• Prepare clean caging, assemble rodent cages, and sterilize caging per set standards.
• Maintain cage wash and storage rooms in a clean, organized condition through sweeping, mopping, spraying, and daily cleaning of washers and sterilizers.
• Assist with general sanitation of hallways and common areas as directed.
• Follow all policies and procedures to ensure compliance and safety.
• Work a Monday‑Friday schedule that includes some holidays as needed to ensure consistent care.
• Additional responsibilities may be assigned to meet operational needs.

Minimum Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Pre‑employment health screening required per UVA Health OCH-002 policy.

Preferred Requirements

• Experience in a lab, industrial cleaning, or animal facility setting
• Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Certificate (ALAT) or interest in pursuing professional certification
• Strong attention to detail
• Effective verbal and written communication skills

Physical Demands

This is a highly active, physically demanding role.

This position requires continuous movement throughout the shift. Employees should expect:

• Frequent standing, walking, pushing, pulling, and repetitive motion (majority of shift).
• Regular bending, squatting, twisting, and reaching.
• Occasional lifting up to 40 lbs. and use of ladders or step stools.

Required personal protective equipment includes gloves, protective clothing, masks, and hearing protection in cage wash areas.

• Sensory Requirements: Vision, depth perception, color vision, near and peripheral vision, hearing, and speaking.

Starting Compensation

$17.00 per hour; commensurate with education and 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.

Application Instructions

Please apply online and search for R0082180; internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website.

• CV/resume

Upload all materials into the resume submission field. You can submit multiple documents into this one field or combine them into one PDF. Applications without all required documents will not receive full consideration.

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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.