Required

• Working knowledge of animal husbandry procedures sufficient to care for laboratory animals in an experimental environment.
• Knowledge of habits and appearances of laboratory animals sufficient to notice deviations from normal.
• Skill in handling a variety of animals in a variety of situations sufficient to prevent injury or distress to the animal or self.
• Ability to lift 50 pound bags of feed, 60-70 pound animals and to push 200-300 pound cage racks of animals.
• Knowledge of techniques and ability to collect samples for laboratory study.
• Skill in reading and numbers to be able to follow instructions, maintain records and identify specific animals.
• Skill in ability to complete identification cards, and inventory forms.
• Ability to speak on a one-to-one basis using appropriate vocabulary and grammar to obtain information and instructions, explain changes in animal behavior and appearances, and to communicate with supervisors and co-workers.
• Ability to euthanize rats and mice using CO2 chambers. Must be able to follow the procedures for euthanasia including the use of the CO2 chamber, as well as be able to ascertain that death has occurred. Knowledge of appropriate labeling and disposal of the animals euthanized, including bio-hazardous animals.
• Knowledge of and the ability to apply the concept of contamination control practices including engineering, administrative, and procedural controls for the containment of pathogens, including disinfection, and waste handling methods appropriate for work in biocontainment animal facilities up to BSL2 level with BSL3 practices.
• Knowledge of and ability to accurately follow all SOPs associated with a GLP study, including required by study protocol and GLP documentation procedures.
• Ability to participate in weekend/Holiday work rotations and occasional overtime duties.