University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB)'s Veterinary Resources program has a contractual employment opportunity for multiple Laboratory Animal Technicians. Veterinary Resources supports the use of animal models of human biology in translational biomedical research and discovery. With animal research, the similarities and differences among species are leveraged to better understand, diagnose, prevent, and treat human disease. A collegial sharing of expertise between Veterinary Resources and other essential UMB departments and services (i.e., OAWA, IACUC, EHS, OHS) provides a safe, ethical, humane, and legal environment for the advancement of biomedical research.

JOB SUMMARY:

Under general supervision, the Laboratory Animal Technician coordinates the day-to-day activities of a laboratory animal facility. Functions as a lead worker and oversees the care and treatment of animals to ensure compliance with federal rules and regulations and appropriateness to research conducted. This position may be used in one or all types of Biosafety Laboratories (BLS) ranging from level 1 to 3 environments.

PRIMARY DUTIES

1. Observes, identifies, and reports animal health related problems.
2. Assists with the evaluation, maintenance, and monitoring of the health of laboratory animals. Assists with the breeding of animals and other activities to maintain animal room stock and various crosses.
3. Provides husbandry support as required by standard operating procedures such as ensuring appropriate feeding and watering of animals, cleaning and changing cages, preparing special diets and maintaining proper temperature, light, and humidity levels.
4. Handles animal carcasses, tissues, and wastes following established policies and procedures.
5. Maintains husbandry records pertaining to animal census, animal breeding, dietary studies, infectious disease studies, etc.
6. Receives, inspects, and stocks supplies such as animal feed and bedding. Assists in maintaining inventory.
7. Coordinates with general maintenance for repairs and regulates the lighting, ventilation, temperature and humidity levels of the animal room environment.
8. Sterilizes glassware, syringes, instruments and equipment.
9. Determines work priorities, plans, and schedules; assigns and reviews work; conducts hands-on training of animal care personnel.
10. Assists in the implementation and administration of policies and procedures for areas of responsibility.
11. Initiates and prepares all documentation related to purchase transactions, recommends vendors, and follows-up on the ordering process.
12. Maintains animal facility according to standard facility operating procedures.

Note: The intent of this list of primary duties is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities of this job. Incumbents perform other related duties assigned. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION: High School Diploma or GED.

EXPERIENCE: One year in a laboratory animal facility.

OTHER: Biosafety Laboratories Level 3 (BLS3) requires successful completion of Department of Justice security clearance for work with Select Agents and Toxins, as required by Federal regulation.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

General knowledge of husbandry practices as routinely required in a laboratory animal environment. Ability to operate standard laboratory animal equipment including scales, autoclaves, pressure washers, cage washers, steam cleaners, etc.; to lift bags of feed and bedding; to follow standard operating procedures; to move heavy stainless steel racks, clean cages, etc.; to wear and work in personal protective equipment; to operate computers and other standard office equipment; to provide guidance and training to others; to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

OTHER:

Except for qualifications established by law, additional related experience and formal education in which one has gained the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the work of the job class may be substituted for the education or experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 college credits being equivalent to one year of experience.

Based on the duties of this position, selected candidates are not eligible to participate in the Bargaining Unit (Union).

Hiring Range: $22 per hour

UMB is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law or policy. We value diversity and how it enriches our academic and scientific community and strive toward cultivating an inclusive environment that supports all employees.

If you anticipate needing a reasonable accommodation for a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), during any part of the employment process, please submit a UMB Job Applicant Accommodation Request. You may also contact HRDiversity@umaryland.edu. Please note that only inquiries concerning an ADA request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.