Animal Cage Washer Tech 1

Job Summary

This position will perform cage washing, cage processing, cage assembly, autoclaving, caging and equipment logistics, sanitization, housekeeping, and materials management for a large and complex laboratory animal services program. May provide guidance and direction to Cage Wash Trainees. Works independently. May act in a lead capacity in the cage wash area in the absence of their supervisor. Takes the necessary precautions, in keeping with OSHA standards and other applicable federal and state regulations, when working with hazardous chemicals, materials, animals and power equipment. Uses personal protective equipment as required. Performs related responsibilities as required.

Responsibilities

The job duties include, but are not limited to:

• Receive soiled cages into cage wash area. Perform pre-cleaning of cages; disassemble cages as necessary to prepare for loading into automated cage washing machines as directed by supervisor and in accordance to standard operation procedures. Empty soiled bedding and waste from soiled cages; dispose of soiled bedding as directed by supervisor and standard operating procedures. Load cages into automated cage washing machines in accordance with standard operating procedures. Remove clean cages from automated cage washing equipment, add bedding, and reassemble cages as directed by supervisor and in accordance with standard operating procedures.
• Assess and maintain records of sanitization and effectiveness of cage washing and sanitizing processes in accordance with standard operating procedures.
• Perform preventative maintenance, start up and shut down of equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures. Assess daily cage washing and cage processing equipment for proper operation.
• Notify Supervisor of any abnormalities in the physical environment of the animal facilities. Disinfect animal areas at routine intervals
• Keep vivarium common use supply levels adequately maintained. Keep storage areas clean and organized.
• Load and unload supplies as required.
• Participate in continuing education courses of Laboratory Animal care.
• Fill orders for processed cages and equipment for specific work areas based on input from animal care technicians and supervisors.
• Perform all other related duties/tasks incidental to work described herein as required.

Required Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED from a recognized State or Federal accredited organization with the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

Preferred Qualifications

A degree from an accredited college or university, certification, training or experience in the field of Laboratory Animal Science or animal related field is desired. Knowledge of animal husbandry/care is preferred/desired.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

Must have the ability to perform physical duties which may include standing, pushing, pulling and lifting; pushing or pulling loaded bulk trucks and racks. Must have the ability to withstand extensive exposure to disagreeable elements such as elevated temperatures, high humidity, dust, and excessive noise; possess manual dexterity skills to assemble and disassemble cages, load caging into automated washing machines, and re-assemble cleaned cages. Must have ability and willingness to use disinfecting and sterilizing chemical agents; ability and willingness to wear the protective gear provided by the department.

Shift/Salary/Benefits

Shift: Days: Monday - Friday (Work outside of normal business hours may be required).

Pay Band: 1

Salary: Minimum $15.00/hr

Salary to be commensurate with qualifications of the selected candidate within the established range (generally minimum-midpoint) of the position

Recruitment Period: 5/1/26 - Until Filled

Augusta University offers a variety of benefits to full-time benefits-eligible employees and some of our half-time (or more) employees.

Benefits that may be elected could include health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, Teachers Retirement System (or Optional Retirement Plan), as well as earned vacation time, sick leave, and 13 paid holidays.

Also, our full-time employees who have been employed with us successfully for more than 6 months can be considered for the Tuition Assistance Program. Consider applying with us today!