At DMU you will make a meaningful contribution to the dynamic future of Medicine and Health Sciences. DMU is seeking a part-time Animal Caretaker. Responsible for the general care of animals in the animal care facility on weekends, holidays and during the absence of the full-time Animal Caretaker.

What you’ll do:

• Maintain efficient operation of the animal care facility (ACF), as specified by the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW) Guide for the Care and Use of Animals (Guide), and governmental and accrediting body regulations. This includes record-keeping, cleaning facilities, feeding, animal facility room reservation request monitoring as needed, and humane disposal of animals.
• Comply with all procedures as outlined in the OLAW Guide including but not limited to:

• Feed, water, and observe the health and condition of animals.
• Change/Clean/dump animal cages
• Clean Facility including sweeping and mopping as needed 
• Assist with coordinating animal procedures and testing room reservations from research labs as needed.
• Comply with the requirements of the Animal Welfare Act.
• Document and communicate immediately any animal illness or injury to the Attending Veterinarian (AV), Principal Investigator, and
• Animal Care Facility Supervisor, and provide treatment as directed by the AV. Record treatment in the animal medical record (Mosaic animal tracking software). 
• Maintain necessary written/computer (Mosaic animal tracking software) records of animals daily.
• Assist University faculty, students, and research personnel as needed. 
• Assist with responsibilities of other caretaker staff in times of their absence.

What we’re looking for:

• A high school degree or equivalent is required.  
• Experience in scientific or veterinary small animal care is strongly preferred.
• Capable of using the following equipment: autoclave, security system, cage washer, computer.
• Must have a current, valid Iowa driver's license.

*To see the full job description go to Position Description at the bottom of this posting.

Total Rewards:

Our employees are what make DMU special, so we treat them well!  Our Total Rewards reflect this commitment. Qualified faculty and staff enjoy a generous employer contribution towards the medical plan, 10% retirement match, flexible work arrangements, community service time, tuition assistance, professional development funding, and access to wellness facilities with programs that promote a well-balanced lifestyle. Visit www.dmu.edu/employment to learn more about our benefits. 

About:

Founded in 1898, Des Moines University is a premier medical and health sciences institution comprising three colleges– College of Osteopathic Medicine, College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, and College of Health Sciences – offering ten graduate degree programs.

In 2023 Des Moines University (DMU) relocated to a new 88-acre campus in West Des Moines, Iowa. This state-of-the-art campus includes technology-rich, flexible education spaces that support innovative teaching methods and connect faculty and students across all of our programs.  Our new research facilities include a vibrant and spacious open laboratory, designed to foster collaboration and innovation.

Required Documents:

Resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references required at time of online submission. Apply at www.dmu.edu/employment.

Department: Facilities

Status:  Non Exempt

Pay Rate: $25.65

Work Schedule:  The work schedule is flexible, with availability required on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The total hours per week will be up to 20, but the specific hours may vary depending on the schedule for each day.

About Des Moines University

Founded in 1898 in Iowa’s capital city, Des Moines University is a postgraduate medical university comprised of three colleges – College of Osteopathic Medicine, College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery and College of Health Sciences – that offer nine graduate degree programs. Des Moines University combines the top advantages in medical education available today: an expert faculty, a rigorous and relevant curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, a dynamic and diverse research environment, and a supportive, inclusive community of students and faculty active in learning and service. By consistently producing outstanding graduates who excel in their careers, DMU maintains one of the strongest reputations in the sphere of American medical education.

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