POSITION SUMMARY:  

Under the supervision of the Animal Facility Supervisor or Designee, the Animal Care Technician performs a variety of duties related to the care of laboratory animals. Primary responsibilities are to maintain a clean and healthy environment for laboratory animals and observe animals for their general health and well- being.  The position is considered essential, and as such requires weekend, holiday and off hours coverage as needed. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Observe animal health and behavior, record and report atypical findings of the environment or physical plant. These observations include but are not limited to sick animals, maintenance problems, safety hazards, and reporting animal welfare concerns
• Perform animal husbandry duties; e.g., feeding, watering, cage/pen cleaning of all laboratory species
• Handle, restrain, and sex laboratory animals
• Maintain animal room records; e.g., census, sanitation, enrichment, feeding, and animal identification
• Prepare and distribute routine medications as directed; e.g., medicated drinking water or feed
• Perform routine maintenance and sanitization of rooms and associated equipment within the vivarium
• Operate commonly used equipment including machines used for washing and sterilizing items
• Maintain validation records of equipment and room maintenance records of assigned areas
• Keep assigned work areas stocked with supplies needed for routine operation of the area
• Collect and dispose of waste
• Record accurate documentation necessary for regulatory compliance
• Ensure compliance with all UMMS policies and local, state and federal laws governing the use of research animals
• Performs other duties as requred.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 0-1 year of related experience
• Valid drivers license
• Basic computer skills e.g. familiar with Microsoft office and related hardware

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Bending, stooping, and lifting (Must be able to lift 60 lbs.)
• Use of PPE is required: scrubs, disposable gown, exam gloves, shoe covers, head/beard cover, surgical/N95 mask. Showering may be required. Exposure to animal allergens, anesthetic gases, biohazards, radiation, MRI, and sharps
• Shower may be required..