Laboratory Animal Sciences Technician III

Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute•Albuquerque, NM

About The Position

Under general direction, the Laboratory Animal Sciences Technician III performs a variety of tasks using established techniques and procedures. The technician assists with study execution, including collecting samples from research animals and administering agents as required by IACUC-approved studies. The role involves exercising judgment in collecting and processing samples such as blood, serum, plasma, tissue, and urine, working with a variety of animal species, and performing relatively complex assignments involving both in-vivo and in-vitro procedures. The technician documents laboratory work to acceptable standards and maintains laboratory and medical equipment and supplies in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs), protocols, and regulations. The position also supports study administration, including labeling collection tubes, transporting supplies, reviewing data for quality control, and coordinating sample shipments. The technician may serve as a shift or study lead, scheduling team assignments and acting as the primary point of contact for the study director during a particular shift. Work is performed in a wet laboratory environment and may involve close proximity to research animals and areas where hazardous materials or infectious agents are present. The position requires use of personal protective equipment, which may include a respirator, and may require vaccinations. A post-offer physical and background check/security clearance are required, as is the ability to gain and maintain access to Kirtland Air Force Base.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent and 3–5 years of related experience in a research, commercial, or hospital laboratory; or an associate’s degree and 2–4 years of such experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.
At least 3 years of animal experience.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and handle other heavy equipment; push, bend, stoop, climb, stand for prolonged periods, and work outdoors and in extreme temperatures and humidity.
Ability to wear a respirator and protective clothing or equipment.
Ability to gain and maintain access to Kirtland Air Force Base.
Post-offer physical and background check/security clearance required.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a scientific field.
Leadership experience.
Computer proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, Internet Explorer, and Outlook, and ability to learn department-specific computer systems.
ALAT and LAT certification preferred.
Technician is encouraged to sit for ALAT and/or LAT within 12 months as a Level 2 technician; LAT and/or LATG within the first 24 months is encouraged.

Responsibilities

Assist with execution of IACUC-approved studies.
Collect samples from research animals and administer agents as required by approved studies.
Collect and process samples, including blood, serum, plasma, tissue, and urine.
Perform in-vivo and in-vitro procedures involving a variety of animal species.
Document laboratory work to acceptable standards and follow SOPs, protocols, and regulations.
Maintain laboratory and medical equipment and supplies.
Support study administration by labeling collection tubes and transporting supplies.
Perform quality control review of data and coordinate sample shipments.
Act as a shift or study lead when assigned, including scheduling team work assignments and serving as the primary point of contact for the study director during a shift.