Job Category: Non-Exempt

PCLS: 40087

Salary Grade: D

Summary

Incumbents in the Lab Animal Technician series are responsible for the care and welfare of laboratory animals used in scientific research. Incumbents provide care for laboratory animals and their environment through animal husbandry and keep records according to State, Federal, and University regulations.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The Lab Animal Technician SR is distinguished from the Lab Animal Technician in that incumbents in the SR level possess the knowledge and experience to execute more technical and complex duties, including working in the High Containment and/or Select Agent animal room/lab and maintaining diagnostic equipment.  Additionally, this classification may be an internship in the large animal medicine and surgery program for newly graduated Doctors of Veterinary Medicine. 

Reporting and Supervisory Responsibilities

The Lab Animal Technician SR reports to an assigned supervisor.  This classification may train and guide the work of hourly and/or student employees.

Typical Functions

1. Provides daily care for laboratory research animals, including feeding, watering, and cleaning animal areas. Provides enrichment devices to animals as indicated.
2. Monitors animal health and behavior.
3. Physically handles, restrains, and moves animals without injuring the animals or endangering self.
4. Observes, records, and reports common signs of clinical illness and/or irregularities in animals to attending veterinarian.
5. Checks and records animal room environmental parameters, including temperature, humidity, room air pressure, and light cycles; informs supervisor of changes which are out of normal ranges.
6. Verifies and replenishes room supplies for animals.
7. Transports animals and equipment as needed between campus facilities.
8. Performs facility sanitation procedures.
9. May work with hazardous agents, including chemical, radiological, and BSL-2/3, 3+ bio hazards.
10. May train and/or guide other employees and monitors personnel entering/exiting building.
11. Assists in maintaining accreditation standards.
12. Administers veterinary care as directed by University veterinarian.
13. Under direct supervision, may conduct animal-based research activities in support of University faculty and researchers.
14. Assists research technicians in resolving problems and provides research support.
15. May operate and maintain diagnostic equipment; ensures preventive maintenance of equipment.
16. Provides animal care for High Containment and Select Agent animal room and lab.
17. May teach laboratory classes and participate in complex animal care, as qualified.
18. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

1. Knowledge of basic animal husbandry.
2. Knowledge of basic animal health and welfare.
3. Knowledge of cleaning methods and equipment.
4. Knowledge of record keeping.
5. Knowledge of basic technical skills in the care, preparation, and use of animals for research and teaching.
6. Ability to handle, care for, and transport experimental animals.
7. Ability to observe, keep records, and communicate with researchers.
8. Ability to train and guide employees.
9. Knowledge of applicable safety procedures.
10. Ability to make administrative and procedural decisions and judgments on sensitive and/or confidential issues.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate’s degree in Life Sciences field plus two years of experience with laboratory animals OR a Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences or related field OR an equivalent combination of education plus experience is required

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

This position requires considerable physical activity. Employees must have sufficient strength to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position including heavy lifting and/or pushing and pulling of heavy objects. Employees must be prepared to assume uncomfortable positions, such as crawling, kneeling, and squatting.  Employees may work outside and will not be protected from weather conditions, including extreme cold and extreme heat for extended periods.

Employees may be exposed to hazardous conditions including, noise, vibrations from machinery, moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, exposure to chemicals, and atmospheric conditions that can affect the respiratory system, such as fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, and poor ventilation.  

Disclaimer

This position description indicates the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to the position.