ABOUT US:

Scripps Research is ranked one of the most influential institutions in the world for its impact on innovation. We expand basic knowledge in the biosciences and use these fundamental advancements to develop profound innovations that improve wellbeing. Our educational and training programs mold talented and committed students and postdocs into leading edge scientists. Scientists in the institute's six academic research departments work hand-in-hand with researchers of the Scripps Research Translational Institute and Calibr to merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs to better human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

POSITION TITLE: Animal Technician II

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Transfers animals from dirty to clean caging providing appropriate feed, water and bedding. Notify appropriate personnel of abnormal conditions.
• Conducts daily animal health observations and completes health reports identifying sick animals.
• Performs basic animal health treatments with direction from the veterinary staff.
• Receives and ships animals as well as reports discrepancies to the appropriate personnel.
• Permanently identifies animals by ear tags, ear notch, or tattoos,
• Cleans, sanitizes and autoclaves caging, equipment and refills water bottles. May also clean and replace excreta pans or pads.
• Receives feed, bedding, and supplies. Autoclaves feed, bedding, and cages in preparation for use.
• Maintains cagewash equipment including cleaning the screens, jets, and manifolds. Performs preventative maintenance such as descaling tanks and polishing machine. Reports maintenance needs to the appropriate personnel.
• Performs general housekeeping duties including but not limited to sweeping and mopping work areas and corridors.
• Properly disposes of waste.
• Euthanizes rodents according to written procedures.
• May euthanize USDA covered species in emergency situations under the guidance of a veterinarian.
• May breed rodents, identify pregnant animals, wean animals, and perform routine technical procedures such as tailing, bleeds, and injections.
• Maintains animal records including animal breeder cards, production logs, pedigree charts, inventory sheets, treatment logs etc.
• Assists with the health-monitoring program including testing for parasites.
• May perform specialized tasks in infectious agent quarters, quarantine areas, or animal facilities adhering to regulations pertaining to biohazards while maintaining traffic patterns.
• Adhere to the department's guidelines and standard operating procedures.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• Minimum three years animal care experience. A Bachelor's degree in a life science, Associate's degree in veterinary technology, or AALAS certification may be substituted for experience.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Effective interpersonal relation skills.
• Must demonstrate competency in technical procedures.
• Participation in weekend and holiday rotations is required.

• Eligible for a promotion to Animal Technician III within 3-5 years of actively working as Animal Technician II with no existing performance failures.

Physical Requirements:

With or without reasonable accommodation, employees in this position must be able to lift and handle equipment or materials up to 20 pounds; as well as perform repetitive motions with arms, wrists and hands. This position may also include utilizing personal protective equipment (PPE) and working in an environment that contains biohazardous materials. May also include stationary position for an extended period of time, traverse campus/facility as needed, operate machinery such as computer, phone, copy machine; exposure to cold or hot temperatures.

COMPENSATION:

The expected hiring range for this position is $22 to $26 per hour, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Employer Contributed Retirement Plan - Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) (which is similar to a 401(k) using your own pre or post-tax dollars)
• Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more
• Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care)
• Competitive vacation and sick leave policies
• Free, on-site parking

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.

EEO Statement:
The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status. Underrepresented individuals are encouraged to apply.