Senior Animal Care Technician

Position Summary

The Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation (OVPRI) and Division of Animal Resources (DAR) invite applicants to join the Team as an Animal Care Technician Specialist (USDA). This full‑time, restricted University and Academic Professional position is based in DAR’s vivarium facility.

Monday through Friday, 7:00 am–4:00 pm. Weekends, holidays, and optional overtime may be required as needed by the department.

Unit: VP Research MBU
Department:
Animal Care Facility

• Advanced handling, husbandry and care of USDA species.
• Conduct accurate observations and reporting of animal health and cage elements for multiple USDA species.
• Perform basic and advanced animal husbandry (cage, water, and food change), cage/animal census, environmental enrichment, and room/vivarium/cage wash housekeeping activities.
• Identify health conditions and symptoms of pathogen infection in sensitive USDA species.
• Plan ahead to ensure supplies are properly disinfected and sanitized.
• Work independently once trained on assigned tasks.
• Participate in staff training and employee health and safety programs.
• Complete annual safety requirements, including fit testing, TB testing (if applicable) and drug screening.
• Follow the VCU Code of Conduct to provide consistently high‑quality customer service.
• Maintain extreme attention to detail in husbandry, cleaning, and handling techniques.
• Collaborate closely with veterinary and research staff to meet their needs.

• Demonstrated ability to foster an environment of respect, professionalism, and civility with individuals from all backgrounds.
• High school diploma.
• Strong attention to detail and effective time‑management skills.
• Significant experience in animal care facilities involving USDA species.
• Ability to follow both oral and written instructions.
• Physical capability to lift 50 lb and stand for extended periods.
• Expertise in safely handling and interacting with animals to ensure a safe environment.
• Proficiency in safely handling and applying cleaning chemicals while wearing protective gear.
• Observant and responsive to various situations.
• Teamwork and the ability to meet deadlines are essential.

• ALAS certification at LAT level preferred, or 5 years laboratory animal husbandry experience, or ALAT certification with 3 years laboratory animal husbandry experience.

$40,000–$44,000

Full‑time university staff receive a comprehensive benefits package including health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, generous tuition benefits, retirement planning and savings options, tax‑deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well‑being resources, and ample opportunities for career development.

FLSA Exemption Status:
Non‑Exempt
Hours per Week: 40
Restricted Position:
Yes
ORP Eligible:
No
Flexible Work Arrangement:
Fully Onsite
University

Job Title:

34024N - Sr Animal Care Technician RS 1

Contact Name:
Niki Boyd
Contact Email: tsboyd