Lab Animal Technician II

Job Title: Lab Animal Technician II
Location: Ridgefield, CT
Type: Contract, Potential for extension or conversion to permanent
 
Overview
Leading pharmaceutical company looking for an experienced Lab Animal Technician. Ideal candidates should have at least 2 years of experience in an animal research facility or veterinary practice.
 
Responsibilities

• This position functions under general guidance/supervision of AR management or designee to perform functions in support of AR operations in accordance with federal, state and local regulations, guidelines and policies on the use of laboratory animals.  This position may include rotational assignment to various animal and/or support areas.  In addition, this position functions as a member of a work team, actively promotes a team-oriented work environment, and may be expected to assist in the training of others and quality review of records.
• Functions with primary responsibility for animal care and enrichment of routine and specialized animal colonies, and cleaning and maintenance of associated facilities and equipment including cage sanitization and preparation for use; includes animal handling, animal observations, reporting of abnormal findings, adherence to veterinary directives and monitoring of room conditions.
• Maintains functional knowledge and ability to operate and maintain animal facility equipment including but not limited to cage/rack washers, environmental monitoring equipment etc.
• May be assigned to specialized tasks or roles as a primary responsibility under the direction of a more senior technician or AR management.
• Ensures timely and accurate documentation of task completion; may assist in quality review of records.
• May assist in training of team members in AR operations and procedures
• May identify and assist in the evaluation of new technologies, equipment and methodologies aimed at animal program improvement or advancement.
• Functions as a team member; displays the behaviors and attributes required to complete inter-dependent and cross-functional tasks within a highly dynamic work environment where success depends on effective communication, coordination, cooperation and personal accountability.
• Verification of training proficiency in general husbandry, facility maintenance and use of associated equipment; increasing the extent of skills training increases the utility and value of the technician to the team
• Documentation, timely and accurate, of task completion related to animal husbandry, facility maintenance equipment use and maintenance according to SOP’s and as directed by AR Management
• Findings of quality deficiencies during visual inspections of the animals and the animal facility including safety standards
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and positively in a team environment
• Maintenance of current LOS training records and AALAS registry standing
• Identification and evaluation of novel approaches aimed at program improvement.
• Complies with applicable company policies and guidance's, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and Federal, State and local regulations (e.g., USDA, FDA GLPs) and performs work in a safe manner.

 
Requirements

• Strict attention to detail and follow-up skills are essential
• Strong verbal and written communications skills are required
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to perform in a team environment
• No known allergies to animals
• This position requires a high degree of physical work effort including but not limited to:  bending, lifting (up to 50 lbs), squatting, pushing/pulling, reaching and long periods of standing, in addition to handling and restraint of small and large laboratory animals.
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including uniforms, respiratory, eye, hearing, hand and foot protection
• Required to work on scheduled weekends and holidays

Education:          

• High School Diploma or equivalent plus 2 years experience in an animal research facility or veterinary practice required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in animal science or equivalent preferred.
• AALAS certification is highly desirable
• Basic computer skills in Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, and Outlook are highly desirable

Benefits
System One offers eligible employees health and welfare benefits coverage options, including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, life insurance, voluntary plans, and participation in a 401(k) plan