Lab Animal Technician I

37177564 Lab Animal Technician I , Ridgefield, CT 12 months

Sigma Systems is currently looking for a Lab Animal Technician

Responsibilities:

• This position functions under direct guidance/supervision of AR management or designee to perform functions in support of AR operations in accordance with federal, state and local regulations, guidelines and policies on the use of laboratory animals.
• This position may include rotational assignment to various animal and/or support areas.
• In addition, this position functions as a member of a work team and actively promotes a team-oriented work environment.
• Functions with primary responsibility for Animal care and enrichment of routine animal colonies, and Cleaning and maintenance of associated facilities and equipment, including cage sanitzation and preparation for use
• Includes animal handling, animal observations, reporting of abnormal findings, adherence to veterinary directives and monitoring of room conditions.
• May include responsibility for specialized colonies and facilities
• Maintains functional knowledge and ability to operate and maintain animal facility equipment, including but not limited to cage/rack washers, autoclaves, environmental monitoring equipment, etc.
• Ensures timely and accurate documentation of task completion, may assist in quality review of records
• May assist in training of team members in AR operations and procedures
• May identify and assist in the evaluation of new technologies, equipment and methodologies aimed at animal program improvement or advancement.
• Functions as a team member; displays the behaviors and attributes required to complete inter-dependent and cross-functional tasks within a highly dynamic work environment where success depends on effective communication, coordination, cooperation and personal accountability.
• Verification of training proficiency in general husbandry, facility maintenance and use of associated equipment; increasing the extent of skills training increases the utility and value of the technician to the team
• Documentation, timely and accurate,of task completion related to animal husbandry, facility maintenance equipment use and maintenance according to SOP's and as directed by AR Management
• Findings of quality deficiencies during visual inspections of the animals and the animal facility including safety standards
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and positively in a team environment
• Maintenance of current LOS training records and AALAS registry standing
• Identification and evaluation of Client approaches aimed at program improvement.
• Complies with applicable company policies and guidance, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and Federal, State and local regulations (e.g., USDA, FDA GLPs) and performs work in a safe manner.

Requirements:

• High School Diploma or equivalent plus 2 years experience in an animal research facility or veterinary practice required; Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in animal science or equivalent preferred.
• AALAS certification is highly desirable
• Basic computer skills in Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, and Outlook are highly desirable
• Strict attention to detail and follow-up skills are essential
• Strong verbal and written communications skills are required
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to perform in a team environment
• No known allergies to animals
• This position requires a high degree of physical work effort, including but not limited to: bending, lifting (up to 50 lbs), squatting, pushing/pulling, reaching, and long periods of standing, in addition to handling and restraint of small and large laboratory animals.
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including uniforms, respiratory, eye, hearing, hand and foot protection
• Required to work on scheduled weekends and holidays