Vivarium Specialist I

Job Description - Vivarium Specialist I (3297225) The Ragon Institute is seeking a skilled individual for a Vivarium Specialist I position in the newly opening building of the Ragon Institute. Under the supervision of the Vivarium Manager (or Supervisor), the Vivarium Specialist I is responsible for the sanitation and sterilization of animal caging systems that are required to maintain a high-level animal research program. PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Utilization of automation systems for cage wash Operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of tunnel washers, rack washers, high pressure autoclaves, dry heat sterilizers, RO automatic watering system, automatic bedding dispensing units including the SureFlo (bedding removal system) and SureVac (vacuum system) Responsible for removing, receiving, and dumping/scraping soiled rodent cages and water bottles in preparation for washing Responsible for validating the effectiveness of cage wash and sterilization cycles by interpreting and recording results of chemical and/or biological indicators placed in designated loads Responsible for maintaining chemical mixing stations and supplies Individual and/or system will request chemicals when required Responsible for the handling, storage, and preparation of clean cages, bottles and other items that have been processed through cage wash equipment Responsible for monitoring mechanical and environmental parameters in cagewash, and reporting all issues to the supervisor or manager in a timely manner May be required to work directly with vendors for maintenance and repairs of the equipment Responsible for completing decontamination of supplies, caging, etc., via handheld sprayer and decontamination room May be required to aid with the duties of the Vivarium Specialist II. Duties include but are not limited to routine cages changing, which includes transferring animals to clean cages, providing clean lids, water bottles, filter bonnets/frames, fresh, special diets and medicated water as required EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Minimum degree and field of knowledge: High School Diploma or GED Years experience required: 0-3 year’s experience working with cagewash equipment or animals in a lab environment QUALIFICATIONS: Proficient in verbal and written English communication skills Experience working in cagewash area with ability to troubleshoot machines preferred Experience working with advanced mechanical and automation systems preferred Ability to work independently or as a team Must be able to follow detailed instructions Basic familiarity with computers. Ability to navigate at a basic level within web-based applications Familiarity with vivarium software and colony management systems preferred Must be able to walk or stand for a full 8-hour shift ALAT Certification preferred WORKING CONDITIONS: The ability to work directly with animals (including mice and rats), with no preexisting allergies to animals, hair, dander, or biproducts that would affect ability to work with these animals. Must be able to perform in this environment with exposure to these potential allergens for prolonged periods of time Must be able to walk or stand for a full 8-hour shift The ability to lift 50 lbs., push or pull up to 100 lbs., and perform other physical tasks Must be willing to be fit tested and wear a N95 mask (by being clean-shaven for proper and necessary fit) or alternatively, if necessary, a PAPR (Powered Air Purifying Respirator) as required Ability to work in Biosafety levels up to BSL-3 Ability to work with biological and chemical hazards May occasionally need to report to work in the event of a disaster, or weather-related event, if necessary This position is considered essential. May be required to work on weekends, holidays, and off hours

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