Description: Position Summary:
The research support technician is responsible for performing tasks and procedures associated with managing the production of research animal breeding colonies, including mating, weaning, animal identification, tissue biopsy, data collection, and communication with researchers using these services.
Essential Functions:
Observes all animals in assigned work area and reports any sick, injured, or distressed animals to an Animal Health Technician or Veterinarian.
Changes cages at scheduled intervals and whenever needed to support animal health and well-being. Ensures animals have adequate food and water at all times.
Follows breeding plan and mating schemes to meet animal production goals. Reports breeding issues promptly to Animal Breeding Supervisor or Coordinator.
Performs tissue biopsy and animal identification in a timely manner.
Wean and separate litters as well as transfer animals for experimental use in a timely manner.
Accurately documents breeding activities.
Promptly responds to researcher requests for breeding colony information. Effectively communicates with researchers and supervisors on a regular basis to inform them of their colony status and any issues/questions that may arise.
Document daily husbandry and breeding activities.
Monitors and documents animal holding room environment. Reports non-compliant environmental parameters and/or malfunctioning equipment to the Supervisor or Facilities Manager.
Maintains animal holding rooms and assigned support areas in a clean and orderly state.
Sanitizes animal holding rooms and assigned support areas.
Performs weekly animal census accurately and reconciles discrepancies in a timely manner in accordance with CCM policies.
Performs rack changes and animal transfer station/biosafety cabinet maintenance as required.
Restrains animals for various technical procedures. May assist with diagnostic sample collection.
Humanely euthanizes animals as requested or required.
Provides technical services to investigators.
Performs other animal care/breeding related duties as required.
Participates in training sessions, meetings, and continuing education activities.
Interacts/establishes working relationships and communicates effectively and positively with research and CCM staff.
Follows established *** and departmental values, policies, procedures, objectives, attendance, safety, environmental, and infection control guidelines, including adherence to the workplace Code of Conduct and Compliance Plan. Practices a high level of integrity and honesty in maintaining confidentiality.
Performs other related duties as assigned or requested.
The following non-essential functions may be reassigned:
Ensure records are maintained in conformance to institutional policies, as well as regulatory agency and government directives.
Position Qualifications:
Minimum Education: High School or equivalent
Minimum Experience: No animal breeding experience required; 2+ years of experience working in a laboratory animal care or veterinary technician position or related field.
Required Courses/Training:
Req. Certification/Licensure: AALAS ALAT certification (or obtained within 12 months of hire)
Preferred Education:
Preferred Courses/Training:
Pref. Certification/Licensure:
Skills/Abilities: Demonstrates the ability to complete routine husbandry and sanitation assignments
Skilled at observations, display tact, consideration, professionalism, and maturity
Able to work independently and as part of a team.
Excellent oral/written communication and organizational skills
Maintain logs and breeding records
Handle and restrain laboratory animals
Monitor and document environmental parameters
Ability to meet deadlines
Software: Basic computer/data entry skills (Mosaic database, Microsoft suite and email)
Machines/Equipment: Computer, barcode scanner, printer
Animal Transfer Station
Biosafety Cabinet
Opti Rack & cages
Working / Environmental Conditions: Atmosphere and environment associated with animal research
Potential exposure to animal dander, diseases, odors, bites
Potential exposure to infectious, radioactive or biohazardous agents
Potential exposure to housekeeping cleaning agents & chemicals
Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for extended periods of time including: gown/coveralls, gloves, masks, face shields, goggles, sleeves, and head covers
Occasional pressure due to deadlines
Weekend, holiday, and overtime work may be required
Physical Demands: Heavy physical effort (lift/carry up to 50 lbs.)
Continuous standing, bending, kneeling, crouching, pushing, pulling, stooping, reaching, handling required
Animal restraint
Custom Fields:
Name: Access to PHI
Value: No