The Assistant Veterinary Technician (Vet tech) will support and assists the Animal Facility Lab Manager for the Maus Lab, located in the MGH Center for Cancer Research. The Vet tech will be responsible for the complete care and use of animals in numerous experimental designs requested by members of the Maus Lab. They will be expected to aid the Animal Facility Lab Manager in basic procedures and injections, treatments, imaging and potentially surgical procedures. They may be tasked with post-operative care and health assessment/health assurance programs. They will work closely with the manager, the IACUC and CCM to ensure the lab is compliant and up-to-date with guidelines.
Familiarity with the regulatory requirements as outlined in the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals and Animal Welfare Act is a part of the position's responsibilities.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Must be fully capable of basic mouse handling and restraint techniques.
Ensure that prescribed clinical care is conducted for the research animals as necessary and delegated by researchers.
Ensuring all procedures performed in the space adhere all applicable regulations and guidelines for animal welfare, care and use.
Perform specific diagnostic procedures including blood and other tissue collection, general anesthesia, surgical preparation, oral gavage, in vivo imaging and euthanasia.
Assist in maintaining inventory for all veterinary medications and supplies including controlled substances, personal protective equipment (PPE) and other animal use research supplies.
Ensure timely and efficient correspondence with the MGH IACUC, and assist with editing research protocols as required by research and regulatory staff.
Maintaining an accurate census of animals, and maintaining and keeping records of the colony.
Assist with animal management (including breeding/weaning), and compliance documentation.
Assist in setting up animal experiments that require complex coordination and planning, including other personnel and collaborators.
Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide appropriate veterinary care for his/her assigned responsibilities.
Comply with CCM and MGH policies and procedures.
Assist with the coordination of equipment servicing requests with outside vendors.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications SKILLS & COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:
Proficient in routine veterinary practices and diagnostic procedures.
Strong listening, verbal and written communication skills.
Long periods of standing.
Ability to efficiently work independently while taking direction and guidance.
EXPERIENCE:
One year of veterinary care experience post-degree/certification and experience with mice is preferred
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Animal facilities and laboratories have a variety of environmental conditions and hazards. Specifically, employees may be exposed to noise, dust, chemicals, radioactive isotopes, extreme heat, and animal waste products. The duration of exposure to any of the above is dependent on the assigned duties. Appropriate protective clothing and equipment may be required and will be provided when required, accompanied by appropriate training.
HIGHER EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION:
Required: CVT, ALAT Certification
Preferred: Associate degree or some college
EEO Statement Massachusetts General Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. Applications from protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged.Partner's Healthcare is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.
MGH Institute of Health Professions, founded by Massachusetts General Hospital in 1977, is an innovative and independent graduate school in Boston that is a member of Partners HealthCare. A progressive leader in developing comprehensive models of health care education, the MGH Institute prepares advanced practice professionals in the fields of nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy and communication sciences and disorders through a distinctive combination of academic study, clinical practice, and research. More than 1,200 students are enrolled in graduate level and certificate programs, with an increasing number of courses available online. The Institute is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).