Laboratory Animal Technician

Purdue University•West Lafayette, IN

61d

About The Position

Work as part of a pre-clinical studies team with the responsibility to maintain resources to assist with studies involving laboratory animals. This position includes facility upkeep and maintenance along with transport and basic care of animals in a research setting. This position requires a person to be reliable, flexible and detail oriented. Must perform the necessary functions to fulfill research obligations while staying within sponsor protocols and regulatory compliance. Establishing a good working relationship with the team, sponsors, and other groups on campus are critical to success in this position. At the Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering at Purdue University, we are changing the biomedical engineering field through education and research. Biomedical engineers innovate medical devices, advanced therapeutics and better healthcare diagnostics and delivery systems. We apply technical skills in engineering design and biological science to challenges in healthcare. At Purdue, we create exciting new spaces for experiential learning, clinical collaborations and discovery with global impact. For more information about our department, please visit: Biomedical Engineering - Purdue University Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Two years' experience working with animals in a research, clinical or agricultural setting.
Comfortable working with animals in a research setting and willing to learn to work with and handle a variety of species.
Must be able to read, speak, and understand English to effectively communicate and understand others
Strong oral and written communication skills
Basic computer skills
Learn and follow safety procedures; includes the wearing personal protective equipment as required
The ability to work as a reliable member in an established research team and willingness to learn new procedures
Ability to learn to perform routine animal care, and evaluate the general condition of study animals under guidance of experienced staff
Maintain daily animal care records
Must be able to work well with others and work in a team environment
Some weekend and evening work will be required; weekend work and late duties will be rotated among team members
Ability to learn and use powered and non-powered floor care equipment
Ability to follow written preventative maintenance instructions for a variety of equipment.
Ability to lift and carry 25-50 pounds frequently and 60 pounds occasionally
Must have a valid driver's license

Nice To Haves

Experience with laboratory and farm animal species in a research, clinical or farm setting
Experience in laboratory work, methods and safety
Experience with maintaining records for GLP studies
Working knowledge of regulatory compliance issues in animal research
Course work in the field of biological sciences, veterinary technology, agriculture, or nursing
AAALAS certification

Responsibilities

Assist in maintaining a clean, safe and healthy environment in the lab, sterile surgery and supporting areas. Process and distribute lab laundry.
Complete routine preventative maintenance of lab support equipment including eye wash stations, air purifiers and auto water system. Aid in maintaining cleanliness of transport van and coordinating mechanical upkeep. Monitor and rotate oxygen tanks.
Animal Care and Husbandry: Stocking and cleaning of housing areas. Perform daily observations and basic care of research animals. Assist with initial and ongoing health evaluations. Maintain regular communication with the team and Laboratory Animal Program Veterinarians.
Aid in transport of animals between housing units, Animal Science Research Center and our labs. Work closely with housing staff to assure proper documentation and communication.
Review and understand standard operating procedures and protocols. Develop familiarity with regulatory requirements, including those of Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee, Institutional Biosafety Committee and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP). Communicate with team to assure safety and regulatory compliance.