Biocontainment Veterinary Research Technician I

Texas Biomedical Research Institute•San Antonio, TX

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Biocontainment Veterinary Research Technician I provides general care, husbandry, and handling of laboratory animals in ABSL-3 and ABSL-4 environments. The technician may assist with select procedures supporting immunogenicity and efficacy studies, document data, and perform other assigned duties. The role includes animal care and handling, health monitoring, sample collection and processing, blood analysis, medication and treatment administration, and preparation of animals for pathological evaluation. The technician also supports necropsy and tissue collection, maintains and decontaminates equipment, assists with in vitro work, operates an autoclave, and keeps accurate husbandry and procedure records. The position is full-time and hourly paid. Texas Biomed’s standard business hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, but variable hours are frequently required, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays. Work takes place in high-containment research environments and involves potential exposure to chemical, physical, and biological hazards, including select infectious agents. The role also involves working with non-human primates, rodents, and other laboratory animals, with potential for bites, scratches, and allergies.

Requirements

High school diploma or general equivalency diploma.
Two or more years of job-specific experience, although in some circumstances advanced degrees or certifications may be considered in lieu of experience.
Valid driver’s license and ability to meet Texas Biomed driving standards.
Ability to work variable hours frequently, including evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree, 60 hours from an accredited college or university, graduation from an AVMA-accredited veterinary technician program, or Military Occupational Specialty 68T (Animal Care Specialist).
Biomedical research experience working with non-human primates or other laboratory animals.
AALAS certification: ALAT, LAT, or LATg.

Responsibilities

Perform basic animal care and husbandry, including manual cage cleaning and providing food, water, and enrichment.
Handle and restrain laboratory animal species used in biomedical research.
Monitor and assess animal health.
Collect and process samples.
Analyze blood using benchtop equipment.
Prepare and administer medications and treatments.
Prepare animals for pathological evaluation, including performing euthanasia and verifying death.
Support pathologists during necropsy or tissue collection.
Maintain, troubleshoot, clean, decontaminate, and sterilize laboratory equipment used for project support.
Assist with in vitro work and equipment, using proper aliquoting and pipetting techniques and properly operating centrifuges and biosafety cabinets.
Operate the autoclave and verify sterility.
Maintain accurate written and computerized records documenting husbandry and procedures.
Review laboratory records for completeness and accuracy.
Maintain a close working relationship with the team and organizational unit leaders.
Perform other duties as detailed in the job description or assigned.

Benefits

Health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage, including pet insurance options.
Employer-funded retirement plan with 6% contributions starting on day one, increasing with years of service.
Paid time off, including 14 paid holidays and a paid Winter Recess.
Paid time off for short-term illness and mental wellness.
Volunteer Time Off.
Paid parental leave.
Flexible work arrangements.
On-site medical clinic, wellness incentives, and prescription support programs.
On-site fitness center and wellness programs.
Professional development opportunities, mentorship, tuition reimbursement, and leadership programs.
Employee-centered culture with more than 100 culture events each year.