Location: Washington,DC, USA
The Children's National Research Institute Comperative Medicine Unit (CMU) Animal Care Technician II provides husbandry and sanitation following standard operating procedures for rodent species; maintains cleanliness of holding rooms and ancillary rooms; observes animals for changes in behavior, dietary habits, and signs of illnesses; observes room environment; receives incoming shipments; maintains per diem inventory; assists in the administration of health treatment prescribed; monitors supplies used in conjunction with duties, cages, cage equipment, and cleaning supplies. Maintain specialized animal care areas (quarantine, barrier, ABSL II). Provide technical assistance as needed. The physical demands of this position require an individual with dexterity for handling animals, the ability to lift 50lbs, and the capability to stand for the majority of the work shift. The workplace is a research facility; there is the potential for exposure to chemicals used to sanitize, zoonotic diseases, and the possibility of being bitten, scratched or kicked. Allergic responses may develop to animal dander. Also, must be able to perform all the duties of a CMU Technician if needed. The position is designated as essential and the individul may be expected to work when normal campus operations are suspended (e.g.: inclement weather) or if there is an emergency impacting the CMU. In addition, staff may be expected to work outside of regular schedule during peak activity periods (e.g.: overtime, weekends). To the extent possible, managers will provide timely notice of modified work schedules. This position provides an opportunity to learn advanced highly specialized laboratory animal research skills and grow within the professional field and the department.Qualifications:Minimum EducationHigh School Diploma or GED (Required)Minimum Work Experience2 years High school graduate or equivalent with at least two years experience in laboratory animal care required. (Required)Required Skills/KnowledgeDocumented evidence of specialized experience demonstrates possession of the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the duties of this position. (must be supported by a detailed description of experience on a resume).Ability to perform within a team-oriented work environment.Basic computer skills required, including familiarity with navigating web-based applications.Knowledge of the biology and physical characteristics of animals used in research and the ability to recognize signs of illness and abnormalitiesKnowledge regarding the methods and materials used in laboratory workAbility to work and communicate professionally with investigators, supervisors and caretakersAbility to make accurate observations, keep current, accurate, and complete recordsAbility to read, understand, and interpret written and oral instruction and perform math calculations in conduct of experimental proceduresAbility to recognize common signs of illness, variations in eating habits, abnormal stool, urine deposits, and unusual behavior.Knowledge of laws and regulations affecting the use of animals in biomedical research.Knowledge of sanitation, sterilization, and biohazard control techniques.Physical demands require a healthy individual with dexterity; manual dexterity is required to handle animalsAbility to stand for long periods of time (up to 6 hours) and lift 50 lbs.Ability to communicate clearly via e-mail, phone, and text message.Required Licenses and CertificationsAALAS certification at ALAT level (Required)Functional AccountabilitiesResponsible Conduct of Research Consistently demonstrates adherence to the standards for the responsible conduct of research. Uses research funds and resources appropriately. Maintains confidentiality of data as required. Meets all annual job-related training and compliance requirements. Husbandry Operations Observe animals daily for signs of health; receive, examine, transfer, identify, and properly house incoming shipments according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Administers medication and treatment as prescribed by the Veterinarian. Provides adequate food and water for all assigned cages. Maintains daily and weekly sanitation of cages, assigned rooms, and common areas. Maintains adequate inventory of necessary supplies and equipment. Observes animal behavior and conditions, collects specimens and provides technical assistance to research and veterinary personnel. Assists with cage wash duties as assigned. Minimize cross-contamination per SOPs Communication Promptly notify management of fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Correctly document room sheets, sanitation logs for common areas, inventory, health reports, and document technical assistance provided. Technical Assistance Maintains per diem inventory of animals. Monitor cleaning supplies and supplies used in specialized care areas (Quarantine, Barrier, ABSL II). Performs minor repairs and maintains animal housing facility. May train and direct new technicians. Performs weaning duties as assigned. Participates in animal handling and manipulation training when offered. Performs other technical tasks, such as handling and injections, as needed. Anticipate and responds to customer needs; follows up until needs are met Teamwork/Communication Demonstrate collaborative and respectful behavior Partner with all team members to achieve goals Receptive to others' ideas and opinions Performance Improvement/Problem-solving Contribute to a positive work environment Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to change Identify opportunities to improve clinical and administrative processes Make appropriate decisions, using sound judgment Cost Management/Financial Responsibility Use resources efficiently Search for less costly ways of doing things Safety Speak up when team members appear to exhibit unsafe behavior or performance Continuously validate and verify information needed for decision making or documentation Stop in the face of uncertainty and takes time to resolve the situation Demonstrate accurate, clear and timely verbal and written communication Actively promote safety for patients, families, visitors and co-workers Attend carefully to important details - practicing Stop, Think, Act and Review in order to self-check behavior and performance