Animal Care Technician

Altasciences • Scranton, PA

8d

About The Position

The Animal Care Technician I provides daily husbandry and care for research animals, supporting their health, comfort, and well-being while contributing to scientific research. The role is part of the vivarium team and helps maintain animal welfare, environmental quality, and regulatory compliance. The position involves working with rodents, rabbits, dogs, swine, and non-human primates.

The technician provides routine animal care and observation, maintains clean and appropriate housing, documents activities and observations, and supports veterinary, husbandry, and research teams. Weekend and holiday rotations are part of ensuring continuous animal care coverage.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Strong commitment to animal welfare and ethical animal care practices.
• Ability to recognize and report changes in animal health, appearance, or behavior.
• Excellent observation skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and organization.
• Professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to high-quality work.
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and genuine interest in working with animals.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require employer sponsorship now or in the future.

Nice To Haves

• Associate's or bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Biology, Veterinary Technology, or a related scientific field.
• Previous experience working with animals.
• ALAT certification, or willingness to obtain certification as part of professional development.

Responsibilities

• Provide routine animal husbandry, including feeding, watering, sanitation, enrichment, bedding changes, and daily health observations.
• Handle, restrain, and interact with animals in a professional, compassionate, and humane manner.
• Monitor animal health and behavior, identify abnormalities, and promptly report concerns to veterinary or supervisory staff.
• Maintain clean, safe, and comfortable housing environments that promote animal well-being.
• Receive, transfer, and assign animals to housing or study locations while ensuring accurate documentation.
• Observe environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, lighting, and ventilation, to ensure optimal animal care standards.
• Support animal welfare programs and comply with established protocols and regulatory requirements.
• Perform cage changes and assist with routine animal room maintenance.
• Operate cage wash and sanitation equipment to maintain cleanliness of animal housing and equipment.
• Assist with movement of animals and supplies throughout the facility.
• Support veterinary, husbandry, and research teams as needed.
• Accurately document daily activities, observations, and procedures, maintaining attention to detail and data integrity.
• Participate in weekend and holiday animal care rotations.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• 401(k)/RRSP with employer match.
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• Paid sick and bereavement leave.
• Employee assistance and telehealth programs.
• Telework when applicable.
• Training and development programs.
• Employee referral bonus program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED