Job Description
Job Description
OBJECTIVE :
The Animal Caretaker performs standardized procedures associated with operation of a laboratory animal facility under general supervision. An Animal Caretaker performs any combination of duties to attend animals including nonhuman primates, ferrets, lagomorphs and rodents. This includes tasks in animal care, sanitation, operations support, quality control and technical assistance. They perform these duties under supervision until skill, training and understanding of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are demonstrated.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS :
- Handle laboratory animals
- Lift and carry up to 50 pounds
- Bend, stoop, and stretch
- Operate animal care equipment
- Wear respiratory protection.
- Understanding of the English language, specifically; basic veterinary medicine signs / symbols
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :
Understand and follow appropriate SOPs according to animal speciesFeed and water animals according to schedule set down according to animal species and / or research protocolClean and sanitize cages, water bottles, racks, and animal roomsUnderstand and operate cage wash machine and autoclavesExamine animals daily for signs of illness or reactions and reports such observations to an Animal Technician or Project ManagerMonitor and record humidity and temperature in appointed rooms daily, noting unusual sounds, odors, and ventilation changesPerform all tasks in a way to minimize or prevent transfer of infectionPerform other duties as assigned