Laboratory Animal Tech Trainee, Animal Resources Program

Overview

Our program is searching for dedicated individuals to fulfill the husbandry and care duties of Laboratory Animal Technicians (starting as trainees), so we can work together to meet the mission and service responsibilities of our program.  We have multiple campuses, serving multiple animal species, including non-human primates.

JOB SUMMARY

Under direct supervision, learn to perform general care and maintenance of laboratory animals and facilities in a research and teaching environment.  Incumbent must successfully complete structured training within eight to eighteen months to be retained in classification and/or promoted to a Laboratory Animal Technician. This position is considered essential personnel for lab animal care. Starting pay: $17.50/hour.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

High School diploma or recognized equivalent required.  Relevant animal work in a professional or farm setting desired.

LICENSURE, CERTIFICATION, and/or REGISTRATION

• Valid driver’s license required. 
• American Association Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) certification at the Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician level preferred, but not required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Feed, water, and dispense bedding for all animal species according to specific requirements and standard operating procedures (SOPs).  Distinguish between different varieties of animal food and bedding.
2. Observe animals and recognize signs of illness, discomfort, and/or distress.  Alert veterinary staff to animals’ condition.
3. Maintain sanitary animal housing equipment and facility according to SOPs to achieve a state of functional readiness.
4. Monitor environment of animal facility and complete building/room log sheets and or report daily tasks and conditions in electronic system.
5. Assemble animal cage equipment and observe equipment for evidence of needed repairs.
6. Safely handle all animal species while maintaining proper identification and location.
7. Complete and document animal census on a weekly basis.
8. Communicate pertinent information to clinical, supervisory, and management personnel verbally.
9. Provide species specific environmental enrichment items according to schedules.
10. Read, review, and follow all SOPs associated with position and campus specific procedures.
11. 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.

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• 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 part of a team
• Good time-management skills
• Good interpersonal/human relations skills

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work includes weekend and holiday work schedules.

Work also includes:

• 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

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Bending and lifting of cages, feed and bedding
• The need to lift, push or pull heavy objects
• Negative tests for active tuberculosis
• Color vision