Technician Assistant

Position Summary

Under general supervision the Technician Assistant will provide care for laboratory animals in an appropriate manner using established procedures, as prescribed by federal laws and regulations, state law, and Columbia University Medical Center policy. The Technician Assistant may perform multiple assignments under direct supervision, including general care, monitoring, and reporting on animal health, assisting in the maintenance of facilities and equipment, routine treatment of common clinical signs, carrying out receiving procedures, assisting in care of breeding colonies, performing daily census of animals, and assisting in the maintenance of animal records.

Responsibilities

• Feed and water the animals on a daily basis or as specified.
• Perform daily census of animals.
• Change animal caging as scheduled.
• Clean animal rooms daily as assigned.
• Assist in routine treatment of common clinical signs.
• Assist in the maintenance of animal records.
• Administer special diets and water according to specified protocols and directions.
• Receive, transport, and distribute incoming animals as specified by established animal-receiving procedures.
• Operate and maintain the cage washer, bottle washer, tunnel washer, autoclave, and other support equipment.
• Observe and report any aberrations in animal room environments (room temperature, humidity, lighting, ventilation, vermin, etc.).
• Attend in-house training programs to become more knowledgeable of and develop expertise in laboratory animal science.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
• Technical training or equivalency with some related experience, usually six months.
• Equivalent education and experience may be considered based upon operational needs.

Other Requirements

• The position is a Thursday to Monday work week schedule.
• Mandatory weekend/holiday coverage as scheduled on a rotating basis.
• Position requires ability to regularly lift at least 25 pounds and frequently lift or move (pushing/pulling equipment) up to 50 pounds.
• The role requires standing for extended periods of time.
• There is exposure to laboratory animals, latex, waste products, bedding, and sanitation solutions.