Primate Technician

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America’s leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You.

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As the Primate Technician, you’ll play a vital role in supporting the Duke Lemur Center’s mission by providing exceptional husbandry, care, and behavioral support for our primate population. Your care, attention, and passion ensure that each animal thrives in an environment that values well-being, scientific integrity, and compassionate stewardship.

Be Bold.

As a Primate Technician, you’ll be part of an innovative and world‑renowned research and conservation center. Your work directly supports animal welfare, contributes to groundbreaking non-invasive research, and advances the understanding and protection of endangered primate species.

What You’ll Do:

• Monitor primate health through daily observation of physical condition, behavior, and environmental factors; record and report any abnormalities.


• Provide daily care, feeding, and specialized diets to maintain optimal health and wellness.


• Clean and maintain animal quarters, ensuring a safe, sanitary, and enriching living environment.


• Perform animal transport duties, move supplies and materials, and operate motor vehicles when required.


• Assist with cage construction and minor repairs tailored to species-specific needs, locomotion, and social dynamics.


• Conduct regular training sessions and provide behavioral enrichment aligned with Duke Lemur Center program guidelines.


• Support non-invasive research by assisting with animal capture, restraint, weighing, and specimen collection.


• Assist in routine and emergency veterinary care, including physical exams, medication administration, fecal collection, reproductive monitoring, and infant care assessments.


• Collaborate and communicate effectively with colleagues, contributing to an open, supportive learning environment.


• Provide constructive feedback and mentorship to new team members throughout their training period.


• Perform additional duties as needed to support overall primate care and center operations.

Choose Duke.

Joining the Duke Lemur Center means becoming part of a collaborative community dedicated to excellence in animal welfare, scientific advancement, and conservation. You’ll work alongside passionate professionals who are committed to creating meaningful impact—locally and globally.

Position Requirements:

• Education: Generally requires a bachelor’s degree.


• Experience: Work generally requires 6 months of experience in a laboratory, animal care, or similar setting to become familiar with the technical tasks associated with the feeding and health care of animals. College course work in biology, zoology, animal sciences, or a related field may be substituted for experience. OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply now and help us care for one of the most extraordinary primate populations in the world—while contributing to a smarter, more connected future.