Animal Technician I/II

Role Summary

The Animal Technician I is responsible for performing all duties essential to proper care of animals located at the designated pathogen-free (DPF) facility located in Virginia. The technicians will provide daily animal care per documented SOPs and maintain detailed records on animals and the DPF facility. The technicians will also be primarily responsible for disinfection and cleaning of the DPF.

Responsibilities

• Perform the day-to-day activities within the DPF, including daily feeding, washing, and care of pigs, movement of pigs, and reproduction (i.e. boar semen collection)
• Clean, disinfect and upkeep the DPF, including lawn mowing and trimming responsibilities
• Assist Vet Techs with duties such as set-up and care during/after operations, operative care, collection, storage, shipment, and inventory of samples
• Understand and follow all SOPs and quality assurance standards
• All other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Required: H.S. Diploma or General Education Degree (GED)
• Required: 1+ years of experience in large animal care and handling
• Required: Working knowledge of animal husbandry, including nutrition, reproduction, and safety
• Required: Excellent communication, organizational, and multitasking skills
• Required: Ability to author and follow SOPs
• Required: Must not have any other interaction with pigs outside of the company
• Physical Demands: Lift 75 lbs to waist level; Push/Pull 200 lbs on wheels

Education

• Preferred: Associates Degree in animal sciences or related field
• Preferred: 1+ years of experience in swine production
• Preferred: 1+ years of experience performing medical tests, observing behaviors, collecting samples, and administering medication to large animals
• Preferred: 1+ years of experience in facility and equipment maintenance
• Preferred: Strong attention to operational planning and follow through
• Preferred: Working knowledge of data collection and recording
• Preferred: Knowledge of the Animal Welfare and other federal regulations regarding animal research including USDA, FDA and DEA
• Preferred: Working knowledge of facility maintenance, including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing skills

Additional Requirements

• Job Location: Fully onsite at Christiansburg, VA
• Travel: Up to 20% travel required