Sr. Lab Animal Technician

Company: University of Oklahoma

Job Location: Oklahoma-Norman-Norman Campus

Category: Laboratory and Research

Type: Full-Time

Job Number: 251639

Organization: Lab Animal Resources

Schedule: Work Schedule: M-F, 8-5, some weekends and holidays

Work Type: Onsite

Salary Range: Salary will be commensurate with experience

Benefits Provided: Yes

Required Attachments: Resume, Cover Letter

Job Description

The Senior Laboratory Animal Technician (SLAT) at the University of Oklahoma - Norman Campus plays a vital role in supporting campus research by providing high-quality animal care and ensuring compliance with institutional and federal regulations. This position is part of a collaborative, service-driven team that values integrity, continuous improvement, and professional development. SLATs contribute to a positive work environment by mentoring junior staff, participating in team initiatives, and upholding the highest standards of animal welfare.

Essential Duties:

• Monitor and assess animal health daily, identifying early signs of illness or distress and reporting concerns to the veterinarian.
• Provide routine husbandry, including feeding, watering, and enrichment, in accordance with established protocols.
• Perform cage changes and maintain clean, species-appropriate housing while preserving animal identification and minimizing stress.
• Ensure environmental parameters (temperature, humidity, lighting) are within acceptable ranges and report deviations promptly.
• Assist with sample collection (e.g., blood, tissue, fluids) and provide technical support for research procedures as needed.
• Administer medications or treatments under veterinary guidance via various routes (e.g., oral, subcutaneous, intramuscular).
• Safely restrain animals for examination, injection/treatment, or transport.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of animal care, health observations, and facility operations.
• Participate in team-based projects and various other duties aimed at improving operational efficiency and animal welfare.
• Performs various duties as needed to successfully fulfill the function of the position.

This position supports weekend and holiday coverage on a rotating basis.

Job Requirements

Required Education: High School Diploma or GED, AND: 12 months experience caring for laboratory animals

Skills: Knowledge of all applicable requirements, regulations, and laws. Ability to communicate verbally and in writing. Ability to work independently and with a team. Ability to identify, address issues and deficiencies, and implement effective solutions. Ability to handle all types of animals. Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays.

Certifications: An American Association of Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) Certification as an Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT)

Working Conditions: Due to the physical requirements of this position, the candidate must be able to lift 30 pounds. Must be able to pull, push, lift, engage in repetitive motions. Must be able to communicate effectively, including expressing oneself or exchanging information with others. Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, and reaching. Work in an animal facility handling all types of animals which may bite or scratch. Ability to work in environments with exposure to animal dander, odor, noise, and cleaning chemicals. Manual dexterity to handle small animals and perform technical procedures. Tolerance for wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) for extended periods.

Departmental Preferences: Experience with a variety of laboratory animal species (e.g., rodents, rabbits, non-human primates). Familiarity with IACUC protocols and regulatory compliance (e.g., USDA, OLAW, AAALAC). Proficiency in basic technical procedures (e.g., injections, sample collection, anesthesia monitoring). Leadership experience or mentoring of junior staff. Strong organizational and time management skills. Ability to troubleshoot and resolve husbandry or facility-related issues proactively.

Supervision: None

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy. To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma values our community's unique talents, perspectives, and experiences. At OU, we aspire to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere. You Belong Here!

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, gender identity/expression (consistent with applicable law), age (40 or older), religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, housing, financial aid, and educational services.

Hiring contingent upon a Background Check?: Yes

Special Indications: None