Outdoor​/Nature​/Animal Care Technician, Animal ​/ Pet Care

• Job Type: Support Staff - Union
• Bargaining Unit: SSA
• Regular/Temporary:
  Regular
• End Date if Temporary:
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Standard
  
  Work Schedule:
• Building:
• Salary Range: $46,529.36 $ 46,529.36

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Columbia University Medical Center (CUMC) is seeking a reliable, detail-oriented Technician A to support biomedical research using primarily mice. The Technician will perform daily animal husbandry and health checks, manage and track mouse colonies, perform routine genotyping (PCR/tail or ear biopsy), prepare animals for procedures, and maintain accurate colony records in compliance with institutional and federal animal welfare regulations. This role works closely with laboratory investigators, veterinary staff, and animal facility personnel to ensure high-quality, humane care and reproducible research outcomes.

• Provide daily husbandry for rodent colonies: cage cleaning, bedding changes, feeding, watering, and enrichment.
• Monitor animal health and behavior; report clinical concerns and coordinate with veterinary staff.
• Maintain and update colony records (breeding logs, genotypes, inventory, transfers) using institutional record systems.
• Help in procurement of animals from external collaborators and commercial sources.
• Perform routine genotyping workflows (tail/ear biopsy, DNA preparation, PCR setup and analysis) and accurately record results.
• Wean/separate litters, set up and monitor breeding pairs, and maintain breeding schedules to meet needs.
• Prepare animals for procedures (weighing, sexing, , anesthesia support where trained/approved), and assist research staff during procedures as delegated by the PI and veterinary protocols.
• Participate in sentinel health monitoring, routine sanitation of animal rooms, and inventory management of supplies.
• Follow all Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), AAALAC, and Columbia University policies and SOPs; complete required training and maintain certifications.

• Requires two years of college or a completed A.A. program with an emphasis on chemistry, biology, physics, or related science, or equivalent in education, training, and experience.

• Ability to lift and move cages and supplies, stand for extended periods, and work in animal facility environments (use of PPE required).
• Prior experience performing genotyping (DNA extraction and PCR), ear/tail biopsies, and record interpretation.
• Experience with colony management software or electronic animal tracking systems.
• Certification or coursework in laboratory animal science (e.g., AALAS ALAT or equivalent) or willingness to obtain certification.
• Familiarity with basic molecular biology techniques (DNA handling, gel electrophoresis) and sterile technique.
• Previous work in an academic medical center or large research animal facility and knowledge of IACUC/AALAC standards.
• Excellent communication skills and experience coordinating with veterinarians, researchers, and facilities staff.
• At least 4 years of hands‑on experience with laboratory rodents (mice) or completion of an accredited animal technician training program.
• Practical experience or demonstrated competency in handling and restraining mice humanely and safely.
• Basic laboratory skills: micropipetting, recordkeeping, and familiarity with PCR basics (or ability to learn genotyping workflows quickly).
• Strong attention to detail, ability to follow SOPs, reliable attendance, and comfort working in a team.

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.