Habituation Lab Animal Technician I

Charles River Laboratories, Inc.; Ashland (OH); On-site; USD 22,000 - 31,000; Full time

Job summary

Charles River Laboratories, Inc. is seeking a Lab Animal Behavioral Technician I (Habituation Technician) to join the Veterinary Services team in Ashland, OH. You will assist with acclimation, enrichment, and conditioning to prepare animals for study procedures, supporting welfare and high-quality care.

The role emphasizes collaboration with veterinary and animal care teams, documentation, and maintaining enrichment devices and records to ensure compliant animal welfare practices.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED with 1 year of relevant experience or an Associate degree in Animal Science/Life Sciences.
• Experience working with animals in research, husbandry, veterinary, shelter, kennel, or similar environment.
• Ability to safely handle common laboratory animal species.
• Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills.
• Preferred: Bachelor's degree in Animal Science/Life Sciences, multi‑species care, AALAS ALAT certification, knowledge of lab animal care standards.

Responsibilities

• Assist acclimation programs preparing animals for study procedures.
• Support behavioral management initiatives through basic operant conditioning techniques.
• Maintain, track, and review data related to acclimation and enrichment programs.
• Maintain documentation and records related to behavioral management programs.
• Handle food and enrichment supplies and assist with inventory management.
• Provide environmental and social enrichment for animals.
• Collaborate with veterinary and animal care teams to meet welfare standards.

Skills

Animal care

Documentation

Data tracking

Organizational skills

Safety procedures

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate degree in Animal Science

Bachelor's degree in Animal Science

Job description

Charles River Laboratories, Inc. is seeking a Lab Animal Behavioral Technician I (Habituation Technician) to join the Veterinary Services team in Ashland, OH. You will assist with acclimation, enrichment, and conditioning to prepare animals for study procedures, supporting welfare and high-quality care.

The role emphasizes collaboration with veterinary and animal care teams, documentation, and maintaining enrichment devices and records to ensure compliant animal welfare practices.