Biological Science Laboratory Technician (Animal)

- Independently provide technical oversight of work force consisting of animal care technicians and students for a wide variety of captive species of birds, mammals, amphibians/reptiles, and fish, including but not limited to, mice, rats, hamsters, prairie dogs, squirrels, bats, game birds,
birds of prey, and passerines. Responsible for establishing work assignments including work schedules. Monitors student contracts to ensure funds are sufficient to support the number of work hours.
- Serve as an integral link between the research and animal care staff by participating in the development and review of animal models, husbandry and research protocols including the design of in vivo animal research studies involving behavioral testing. This includes conducting/coordinating protocol planning meetings with scientific, veterinary and support staff, providing advice on biomedical research equipment and collection of biomedical data.
- Manage animal services accounts and assesses and tracks animal room charges. Assist Science Support Branch Chief (supervisor) in setting room rates. Order and maintain inventory of supplies and materials used in the animal isolation facility, including but not limited to feed, bedding, chemicals, and personal protective equipment.
- Prepare and maintain detailed and accurate records and checklists that document husbandry practices, experimental results, disinfection certification, and personnel training procedures, ensuring all are in compliance with rules and regulations set forth in the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, the Animal Welfare Act, the NWHC Animal Care and Use Committee, as well as all safety and environmental regulations and reporting requirements. Serve as a member of the NWHC Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee charged with reviewing animal protocols and study designs.
- Provide training to students, other animal services technicians, and researchers including but not limited to general husbandry, health observations, animal procedures, record keeping, decontamination procedures, and the use of specialized equipment.
- Develop, assess and improve husbandry practices for research animals, wildlife, or zoo animals.
- Work at Animal Biosafety Level 2 (ABSL2) and Animal Biosafety Level 3 (ABSL3) containment following biosafety rules and regulations set forth by the Federal Select Agent and Toxin Program and the NWHC Institutional Biosafety Committee as well as best practices outlined in the Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL).