Laboratory Animal Technician

Atrium Health; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in healthcare is seeking dedicated individuals to care for laboratory animals in a research and teaching environment. This role involves performing essential tasks such as feeding, observing animal health, and maintaining sanitary conditions. Ideal candidates will have a high school diploma and previous experience in lab animal care. Join a team that values effective communication and teamwork, while providing a safe and enriching environment for animals. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to vital research while developing your skills in a supportive atmosphere.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED with lab animal experience.
• Ability to operate routine animal care equipment.

Responsibilities

• Feed, water, and maintain animal housing according to SOPs.
• Observe animals for signs of illness and alert veterinary staff.
• Document supply and diet inventory weekly.

Skills

Routine animal care and use equipment operation

Effective communication

Documentation and recordkeeping

Simple computer skills

Teamwork and independence

Time management

Interpersonal skills

Mentoring LATT staff

Education

High School diploma or GED equivalent

Tools

Tunnel washer

Rack washer

Bulk sterilizer

Job description

Overview

Primary Purpose

Under general supervision, performs general care and maintenance of laboratory animals and facilities in a research and teaching environment.

Major Responsibilities

• Capable of performing duties as specified for Laboratory Animal Technician Trainee (LATT) position.
  • Feed, water, and dispense bedding for all animal species according to specific requirements and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Observe animals and recognize signs of illness, discomfort, and/or distress. Alert veterinary staff to animals’ condition.
  • Maintain sanitary animal housing equipment and facility according to SOPs to achieve a state of functional readiness.
  • Monitor environment of animal facility and complete building/room log sheets and or report daily tasks and conditions in electronic system.
  • Read, review, and follow all SOPs associated with position and campus specific procedures.
  • Complete American Association Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) Learning Library training modules associated with Wake Forest Track for this position along with the campus specific modules.
• Safely handles and restrains all animal species while maintaining proper identification and location.
• Assembles caging equipment to provide comfortable, safe housing for all species.
• Completes and documents supply and diet inventory on a weekly basis.
• Communicates pertinent information to clinical, supervisory, and management personnel in writing and verbally.
• Provides species specific environmental enrichment items according to schedules and assist Environmental Enrichment coordinator with special enrichment needs.
• Provide assistance to laboratory staff under direct supervision

Minimum Job Requirements

Education: High School diploma or GED equivalent with previous lab animal experience.

Certification / Registration / License: Valid North Carolina driver's license.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Ability to operate routine animal care and use equipment (e.g., tunnel washer, rack washer, bulk sterilizer)
• Ability to communicate effectively Ability to perform necessary documentation and recordkeeping
• Ability to utilize simple computer skills e.g. email, training modules
• Ability to work as a team or independently
• Good time management skills
• Good interpersonal/human relations skills
• Ability to mentor LATT staff

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Facility is completely indoor but employees will have to be outside to receive animal orders from the loading dock
• Work includes weekend and holiday work schedules
• Possible exposure to outdoor elements and odors
• Exposure to animal and human pathogens and potential allergens
• Exposure to animals that can inflict bites, kick, or scratch
• Bending and lifting of cages, feed and bedding
• The need to lift, push or pull heavy objects