Animal Care/Cage Wash Assistant

Summary

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Office of Research & Innovation, Division of Animal Resources invites applicants to apply for an outstanding opportunity to join our team as a Animal Care Assistant. The Division of Animal Care Facility is seeking individuals who will be responsible for the cleaning a variety of soiled animal cages and racks. The employee will clean, disinfect and sterilize animal cages using the guidelines established by the regulatory agencies and the Division. Monitor and clean equipment daily to ensure that it is working properly and know the established procedure to follow when equipment is malfunctioning. Maintain records of operation. Using the guidelines established by the Division, assemble animal cage, bedding and water bottles into setups. Using the established procedures, these setups are autoclaved and used for animals requiring sterile housing. Ensures an inventory of sterile cages are kept on hand to supply the day-to-day demands as well as emergency situations. Unpack feed and bedding off pallets and store appropriately. Keep working area clean and organized and ensure supplies that are needed are on hand at all times. Other duties as assigned. This position is a Monday-Friday position, some weekend and holiday work are required.

Animal Care Assistant duties include:

-Clean, disinfect, assemble and sterilize animal cage elements for multiple species housed
within DAR vivaria (food, water, bedding).

- Inspect assigned rooms for needed supplies and repairs on a daily basis. Notify Vivarium
Manager of items that must be ordered or repaired on a weekly basis or as needed.

- Perform daily, weekly and monthly room maintenance/cleaning schedules and expectations
following DAR Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

- Attend DAR staff meetings and training sessions.

Minimum Hiring Standards:
-High school diploma or equivalent

-Ability to follow both oral and written instructions required

-Must have some experience working with animals, either in laboratory or clinic, or have been responsible for personal pets

-Must be able to lift 50 lbs easily

-Stand for long periods of time up to one hour

-Handle animals safely; to coexist with animals

-Disinfect walls, floors, and cages; to daily inspect rooms and determine when supplies are needed

-Must be able to properly handle and apply chemicals safely during room cleaning processes; to wear any protective clothing or materials as needed

-Observe and respond to situations in an appropriate manner

-Individual needs to be able to work well with others and to meet deadlines

-Demonstrated experience working in and fostering an inclusive environment

ORP Eligible: No

VCU Job Title: Animal Care Assistant 34011-34013