Preclinical Research Team Lead; Animal Research

For 75 years, Charles River employees have worked together to assist in the discovery, development and safe manufacture of new drug therapies. When you join our family, you will have a significant impact on the health and well-being of people across the globe. Whether your background is in life sciences, finance, IT, sales or another area, your skills will play an important role in the work we perform.

In return, we’ll help you build a career that you can feel passionate about.

We are seeking a Research Team Lead to provide technical leadership and operational support for preclinical research studies. In this role, you will serve as a lead technician, oversee daily study activities and lab animal care, mentor other research technicians, and help ensure the successful execution of research projects while maintaining compliance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) regulations and company procedures.

This position is ideal for an experienced research technician who enjoys hands‑on work, team leadership, and contributing to the advancement of scientific discovery.

• Lead and perform technical activities across a variety of research studies, including complex and specialized protocols.
• Conduct clinical observations, collect biological samples, administer test substances, and monitor animal health and well‑being.
• Ensure accurate collection, review, and documentation of study data in compliance with GLP, study protocols, and SOPs.
• Provide day‑to‑day leadership, guidance, training, and mentorship to research staff.
• Assist with study planning, start‑up activities, scheduling, and coordination across research teams.
• Support staffing activities, including onboarding, training, coaching, and performance development.
• Partner with scientific and operational teams to improve processes, develop new techniques, and drive operational excellence.
• Assist with internal and external audits, inspections, and quality initiatives.
• Ensure laboratory equipment, work areas, and research environments are maintained according to company standards.
• Promote a culture of safety, collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.

• Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Biology, Chemistry, Pharmacy, or a related scientific discipline.
• 4+ years of experience in laboratory research, animal science, preclinical research, or a related scientific environment.
• Demonstrated leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Working knowledge of GLP regulations and laboratory procedures.
• Ability to organize multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and data management systems.

• GLP experience.
• AALAS LAT certification.
• Experience leading or mentoring technical teams.
• Knowledge of study design, protocol execution, and laboratory animal care.

• Ability to lift and move materials, equipment, or animals weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, sit, and perform detailed technical procedures for extended periods.
• Ability to work with laboratory animals and utilize fine motor skills during research procedures.

This role is based in a laboratory and research setting and involves working with laboratory animals, research equipment, chemicals, and biological materials. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) will be required.

This position may require overtime, weekend, holiday, and after‑hours coverage based on study and operational needs.

The pay for this position is $33.50/hour. Please note that salaries vary within the range based on factors including, but not limited to, experience, skills, education, certifications, and location.

Charles River is…