Behavioral Technician

JOB SUMMARY:Performs tasks relating to the implementation and maintenance of the breeding programs for nonhuman primates (Old and New World primates). Responsible for performing and monitoring new social introductions, performing/training on positive reinforcement techniques, conducting behavioral assessments and interventions as necessary, and appropriately documenting program activities. Supports the Enrichment Team in the maintenance of the environmental enrichment program as needed.Collects behavioral data for research projects and program assessments. Assists in colony management duties as needed. Assists Animal Care Managers and the veterinary team as directed. May assist Research Study Directors with data collection and enrichment programs in collaboration with the Enrichment Manager.DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:The Behaviorist must be able to perform the following tasks with minimal supervision:Behavioral observation including but not limited to new breeding groups, social housing of indoor housed animals, temperament assessments, abnormal behaviors, etc.Direct and manage the foster/mentor program.Assist with the development and management of abnormal behavior management plans including alopecia intervention plans.Assist and direct the enrichment team on intervention plans for abnormal behaviors.Train new hires on NHP behavior and any other behavioral-related topics.Lead training initiatives for the NHP (e.g., pole/collar, positive human interactions, acclimation procedures, etc.).Help optimize breeding groups by assisting colony management in identification and establishment of successful breeders.Track and monitor male breeder rotations.Perform social housing procedures for cage housed nonhuman primates.Maintain and update the infant database by working with a team to tag new infants, identify the dams and enter the data into the records systems via status changes.Manage infant observation data collection and work with/train veterinary technicians to maintain data collection.Manage and direct the re-introduction/placement of healthy animals back to their social groups.Participate in client audits and meetings as needed.Evaluate and develop new approaches, ideas, and concepts for existing tasks and/or improve/replace existing procedures or systems.Assist in management of the infant derivation program.Manage acclimation processes for sales and quarantine animals.Maintain appropriate records of various tasks performed.Follow Standard Operating Procedures.Create and present reports as directed.Analyze statistical data and assess trends.Assist with updating the Behavioral and Environmental Enhancement Plan (BEEP) annually.Perform other duties as assigned.Must be available to work weekends and holidays when needed.SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:Works to encourage site coordination between the two facilities.Must be team oriented, and willing to work across institutional divisions in a professional and courteous manner.KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:Must have a working understanding of NHP behavior and animal breeding.Excellent organizational and communication skills.Computer skills are a must. Experience with system databases, Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.Ability to work in a team environment.Ability to work unsupervised.EDUCATION:BA/BS degree in a behavioral or biological science preferred.CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:LATG certification preferred. Must obtain within first year of employment.South Carolina Driver’s License or equivalent.LANGUAGE SKILLS:Must be able to read and write, and interpret documents including task descriptions, standard operating procedures, and other instructions.REASONING ABILITY:Able to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.PHYSICAL DEMANDS:The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodations. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, lift, and reach. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception and ability to adjust focus.WORK ENVIRONMENT:The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodations. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to wet and/or inclement weather, including cold, heat with high humidity, and precipitation. The noise level is usually moderate.Job Type: Full-timePay: $18.00 - $25.00 per hourBenefits:401(k)401(k) matchingDental insuranceHealth insuranceLife insurancePaid time offVision insuranceWork Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $25