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 washOperation, 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 washingResponsible for validating the effectiveness of cage wash and sterilization cycles by interpreting and recording results of chemical and/or biological indicators placed in designated loadsResponsible for maintaining chemical mixing stations and supplies Individual and/or system will request chemicals when requiredResponsible for the handling, storage, and preparation of clean cages, bottles and other items that have been processed through cage wash equipmentResponsible for monitoring mechanical and environmental parameters in cagewash, and reporting all issues to the supervisor or manager in a timely mannerMay be required to work directly with vendors for maintenance and repairs of the equipmentResponsible for completing decontamination of supplies, caging, etc., via handheld sprayer and decontamination roomMay 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 requiredEDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:Minimum degree and field of knowledge: High School Diploma or GEDYears experience required: 0-3 year’s experience working with cagewash equipment or animals in a lab environmentQUALIFICATIONS:Proficient in verbal and written English communication skillsExperience working in cagewash area with ability to troubleshoot machines preferredExperience working with advanced mechanical and automation systems preferredAbility to work independently or as a teamMust be able to follow detailed instructionsBasic familiarity with computers. Ability to navigate at a basic level within web-based applicationsFamiliarity with vivarium software and colony management systems preferredMust be able to walk or stand for a full 8-hour shiftALAT Certification preferredWORKING 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 timeMust be able to walk or stand for a full 8-hour shiftThe ability to lift 50 lbs., push or pull up to 100 lbs., and perform other physical tasksMust 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 requiredAbility to work in Biosafety levels up to BSL-3Ability to work with biological and chemical hazardsMay occasionally need to report to work in the event of a disaster, or weather-related event, if necessaryThis position is considered essential. May be required to work on weekends, holidays, and off hours

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