Animal Care Assistant I

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

·       Ability to operate sterilizing equipment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED)

·       Ability to operate sterilizing equipment.

·       Ability to handle small animals.

·       Demonstrated habits of cleanliness and neatness.

·       Ability to keep detailed records pertaining to animal census, cage inventory, and cage washing and

sterilizing temperatures.

·       Good written and oral communication skills in English.

·       Ability to learn the techniques and procedures required to care for and handle a variety of animals.

·       Ability to operate a variety of equipment, such as cage washer or sterilizing equipment.

·       Ability to work in direct contact with animals and al components of animal housing and animal research

environment.

CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES:

·       None

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

·       Often lift and carry materials weighing up to 40 lbs.

·       Frequently handle materials up to 20 lb.

·       Occasionally carry/pull up to 60 pounds, push over 60 pounds.

·       Walk/stand for long periods.

·       Bend, squat, reach above shoulder level.

·       Often use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls. 

·       Required vision abilities including close, distance, color, peripheral and depth perception.

·       Ability to talk and to hear.

* - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

Additional PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

·       Must be capable of lifting and moving cages, feed, supplies, and equipment of at least 50 pounds.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

·       May be required to work overtime, evenings and weekends, including Holidays, sometimes in inclement weather conditions.

·       Work in direct contact with animals and all components of animal housing and animal research environment.

·       May require working with or being in areas where hazardous materials, animal allergens and/or infectious diseases are present. Specific hazards include, but are not limited to: zoonosis, chemicals, pesticides, and solvents. May be exposed to dust, fumes or gases, chemicals or toxic substances.

·       Must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing, and gloves; may require use of a respirator.

·       May be exposed to dust, fumes or gases, chemicals or toxic substances.

Additional WORKING CONDITIONS:

·       Work occurs in a secured facility, in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.

·       Expected to follow all safety requirements and procedures.

·       Must be free of animal-related allergies.

·       The incumbent will be required to complete an initial and annual Occupational Health Surveillance questionnaire and may be required to undergo a physical examination and/or immunizations.

·       Must observe and support good health and safety practices regarding the use of chemicals and equipment.

·       Must undergo regular hearing testing and as needed.

·       Must be able to work while using a PAPR (Powered Air Purifying Respirator).

·       Responsible for the wearing, use and proper care of uniforms, supplies, and equipment provided by VSC. Including uniforms required for health & safety purposes.