The Children's National Research Institute Comparative Medicine Unit (CMU) Technician is responsible for providing a clean and sterilized living environment for research animals. The position will maintain the cleanliness of cagewash rooms and ancillary rooms following the CMU standard operating procedures. Clean and sanitize all animal caging and accessory equipment. The physical demands of this position require an individual with the ability to lift 50lbs and stand for the majority of the work shift. Prepare clean cages with bedding. Dispose of all waste from the facility. Receive, store, and rotate animal care supplies. Maintain and perform routine repairs on caging and racks. Be capable of operating the following types of equipment: autoclaves, automated cage washing machines, bedding dispensers, bottle fillers, liquid proportions, high-pressure/steam cleaning devices, etc. Perform routine preventative maintenance on the cage washers and autoclaves (e.g., checking and cleaning filters and roto-arms). Knowledge of detergent-disinfectant usage. Familiar with Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for chemicals used in the work area. Complete other duties and husbandry as assigned. The workplace is a research facility. There is the potential of exposure to chemicals used to sanitize equipment and room surfaces, zoonotic diseases, and the possibility of being bitten, scratched, or kicked by animals. Allergic responses may develop to animal dander. The position is designated as "essential" and individual may be expected to work when normal campus operations are suspended (e.g.: inclement weather) or if there is an emergency impacting the CMU. In addition, staff may be expected to work outside of regular schedule during peak activity periods (e.g.: overtime, weekends). To the extent possible, managers will provide timely notice of modified work schedules. This entry level position provides an opportunity to learn highly specialized laboratory animal research skills and grow within the professional field and the department.
Minimum Education
High School Diploma or GED (Required)
Required Skills/Knowledge
Ability to understand and follow detailed oral and written instructions.
Ability to perform within a team-oriented work environment.
Basic computer skills required, including familiarity with navigating web-based applications.
Ability to read and write to maintain records, read instructions, labels, etc.
Ability to explain problems/issues and solutions.
Ability to understand and follow safety practices.
Ability to interact and work with faculty, students, staff, and visitors in a respectful and courteous manner.
Ability to work under environmental conditions that require the use of safety equipment.
Able to operating autoclaves, automated cage washing machines, bedding dispensers, bottle fillers, liquid proportions, high-pressure/steam cleaning devices, etc.
Ability of of lifting 50lb and standing for an extended length of time.
Knowledge of detergent-disinfectant usage.
Ability to understand and be familiar with Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for chemicals used in the work area.
Functional Accountabilities
Responsible Conduct of Research
Husbandry Operations
Communication
Organizational Accountabilities
Organizational Accountabilities (Staff)
Organizational Commitment/Identification
Teamwork/Communication
Performance Improvement/Problem-solving
Cost Management/Financial Responsibility
Safety