Vivarium Operations Associate I

Novartis•Cambridge, MA

5d•$31 - $58•Onsite

About The Position

This role is an experienced animal care and vivarium operations position responsible for supporting research by providing high quality & consistent animal care/husbandry, vivarium operational service support and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards within a multi-building, multi-discipline research program.

Requirements

Shift will be either Sunday – Thursday or Tuesday – Saturday (determined based on business needs)
GED or High School degree required
Working knowledge of federal, state, local (Animal Welfare) laws and departmental SOPs
Thorough understanding and comprehension of operational standards, processes, equipment, etc. as they relate to operational responsibilities
Strong experience working with animals or performing animal husbandry in a research setting.
Must be able to lift 50 lbs. and move heavy objects.
Must be able work from a standing position for prolonged time periods and perform repetitive motion tasks
Availability for weekend, holiday, and inclement weather coverage required.

Nice To Haves

2-year degree in Veterinary Technology, 4-year Science degree, or a combination of experience with higher education preferred
ALAT Certification desirable or pursued after start

Responsibilities

Principally responsible for daily husbandry to animals (predominantly rodents, some small animal USDA and zebrafish), clinical observations, maintenance of the animal facilities (sanitation of animal rooms & equipment), receipt of incoming animals & supplies, fulfilling research requests, animal transfers and relocations.
Often responsible for ensuring compliance with all institutional and regulatory protocols, policies, and guidelines.
Maintenance of relevant facility/animal records.
Make independent decisions regarding operational standards/situations.
Responsible for pursing continuous learning/professional development opportunities and enhancing/expanding skill set as time allows.
Driven by the needs of our scientific partner/collaborator, limited routine technical procedures on animals may also be assigned.
Other duties and responsibilities as may be required.