Reproduction & Cryogenics Technician

Guiding Eyes for the Blind•Patterson, NY

3d•Onsite

About The Position

At Guiding Eyes for the Blind, we are passionate about connecting exceptional dogs with individuals seeking greater independence. We are dedicated to creating and supporting life-changing partnerships between people and dogs. At our facilities, we breed, raise, and train exceptional guide dogs – and match them with individuals ready to embrace a life of greater freedom, confidence, and possibility. Together, they embark on incredible life adventures. The Reproduction & Cryogenics Technician plays a key role in supporting Guiding Eyes' breeding and genetics programs and the long-term success of future guide dogs. Through specialized reproductive, cryogenic, and laboratory expertise, this position helps advance genetic stewardship, reproductive health, and biological resource management while contributing to a sustainable breeding colony that meets the organization's current and future needs. Working collaboratively with internal teams and external partners, this role supports the continuous improvement of breeding program outcomes and helps advance best practices in canine reproduction, genetics, and biobanking in support of the organization's mission. At Guiding Eyes, you'll work alongside passionate, caring professionals who are united by a love of dogs and a shared commitment to our mission. Together, we help provide each dog with the foundation needed to succeed while supporting the individuals whose lives will be changed by their partnership. If you're looking for meaningful work in a collaborative and purpose-driven environment, we'd love to hear from you.

Requirements

Undergraduate degree in Animal Science or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Valid driver's license
Minimum of two (2) years of experience in animal care, veterinary medicine, animal reproduction, laboratory sciences, genetics, or a related field.
Experience working with canine reproductive procedures, biological sample collection, or laboratory operations preferred.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, reliable, and capable of maintaining accurate records and documentation.
Experience collecting biological samples and working with medical or scientific terminology.
Experience handling dogs in a clinical, veterinary, breeding, research, or similar professional environment.
Demonstrated flexibility and adaptability, with the ability to manage competing priorities in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.
Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team environment.
Strong relationship-building skills with the ability to find a common purpose, build consensus, and foster collaboration across teams.
Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
Experience partnering with cross-functional teams to achieve organizational goals.
Ability to engage effectively with employees, volunteers, donors, and other community stakeholders.
Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office programs; Salesforce savvy a plus.
Ability to safely handle and restrain dogs weighing up to 80 pounds.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT).
Knowledge of canine reproductive practices and reproductive laboratory procedures.
Experience working in animal reproduction, genetics, cryogenics, biobanking, veterinary medicine, or a related field.
Experience supporting canine, working dog, service dog, livestock, or companion animal breeding programs, with an understanding of breeding program management, genetic diversity, and population sustainability.

Responsibilities

Perform canine reproductive procedures to support optimal conception rates and litter outcomes, including vaginal cytology, blood collection, progesterone testing, semen collection and evaluation, natural breeding, vaginal insemination, and transcervical insemination (TCI).
Analyze and interpret semen quality parameters, including motility, morphology, concentration, and viability.
Maintain accurate and complete breeding and reproductive records.
Provide occasional weekend breeding and reproductive support as needed.
Safely handle and restrain dogs while following animal welfare and safety protocols.
Support operation of the frozen semen cryobank through semen collection, processing, cryopreservation, extender preparation, and post-thaw evaluation.
Monitor cryogenic storage tanks daily and measure liquid nitrogen levels weekly to ensure proper storage conditions.
Maintain accurate records of semen analyses, cryogenic storage locations, inventory status, and quality control assessments.
Maintain the DNA Biobank by coordinating sample collection, cataloging specimens, managing freezer inventory, and ensuring accurate tracking and documentation of all samples.
Assist with breeder candidate screening and evaluation activities.
Collect and prepare blood and cheek swab samples for genetic testing.
Organize testing materials, coordinate sample shipment, and ensure accurate data entry and recordkeeping.
Collaborate with internal teams and external partner organizations to support genetic diversity and reproductive health initiatives.
Maintain laboratory equipment through routine preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, vendor coordination, and timely escalation of repair needs.
Clean, disinfect, and prepare reusable laboratory equipment and supplies according to established protocols.
Manage inventory and procurement activities, including ordering supplies, gathering vendor quotes, processing invoices, and maintaining inventory levels within budget guidelines.
Develop, maintain, and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) for reproductive, cryogenic, and laboratory processes.
Ensure new procedures are properly documented, validated, and communicated to relevant staff.
Support canine health and breeding program research projects as assigned.
Cross-train designated staff on reproductive procedures and laboratory processes to ensure consistent program coverage.
Support Health Survey initiatives through record review, correspondence management, volunteer coordination, data entry, and record organization.
Assist with additional genetics, reproduction, and departmental projects as assigned.