Technical Specialist

Description JOB SUMMARY: The Technical Specialist works with the animal husbandry staff, site veterinarians, researchers and other site technical staff in various activities related to animal care husbandry and research. This position is responsible for conducting animal health observations and assessments, coordination of testing, communicating with veterinarians and investigators, performing animal treatments and maintaining associated records and documentation. Qualifications BASIC REQUIREMENTS: Must have at least a GED or high school diploma. At least three (3) years of progressive related experience working in an animal laboratory environment. Certification by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) at the Laboratory Animal Technologist (LAT) level required. Continue training to maintain and build proficiency in techniques in accordance with customer needs and/or requirements. Possess good organizational, communication and problem solving skills. Must possess excellent knowledge of Federal, State, and local regulations governing Animal Care facilities. Proficient in MS Office and the ability to learn and work with other databases and applications. Good knowledge of both spoken and written English. Must be a legal resident of the United States. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Works with the animal husbandry staff, conducts clinical observations, assesses animal health, etc. Promptly communicates animal health abnormalities to the appropriate party. Coordinates testing and treatments under the direction of the veterinarian and/or other appropriate party. Maintain ongoing communications with veterinarians or investigators related to animal well-being, research studies, etc. Coordinate with the veterinarian to assist and/or support researchers in scheduling and in the conduct of animal related procedures as appropriate. Perform technical services as requested to support research investigators. May include administration of substances to animals by routine methods of injection and oral gavage, performing blood collections and other common procedures such as animal identification, provision of special feed and/or water, food/water consumption measurements, preparation of anesthetized animals for surgery, post-operative care of animals, assisting scientists with other procedures, euthanizing animals and post-mortem tissue collections. Write, review and update SOPs and provide associated training for research investigators and staff. Assist other staff members with animal husbandry, cage wash services and administrative support for the animal care and use program as needed. NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Perform other related duties as assigned. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Occasionally Climbing, Stooping, Kneeling Often Reaching, Standing, Sitting, Walking, Pushing, Pulling, Talking, Hearing, Seeing Lifting/Moving Requirements - Minimum of 50 pounds ENVIRONMENTAL/WORKING CONDITIONS: Work is performed mainly indoors in a laboratory environment and/or in an animal care, barrier facility, surgical or test procedure facility, diet/water prep facility, or animal housing/bedding cleaning and prep areas. Work may require use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in both areas. Work area may be prone to hot and humid conditions, and subject to objectionable odors, aerosols, dust, animal dander, and noise.