Senior Animal Research Technician

Our client is a leader in the life sciences and biomedical research industry, driving innovation through advanced laboratory techniques and rigorous scientific methods.

Title: Sr Animal Lab Tech

Location: Jefferson County, Alabama

Job type: Contract – hire

Pay rate: $32/hr. - $36/hr.

Summary

The Senior Laboratory Animal Resources Technician provides comprehensive research and technical support within Laboratory Animal Resources facilities. This role requires a strong understanding of scientific principles and research methodologies, proficiency in laboratory and animal-handling techniques, and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment. The Senior Technician also serves as a mentor and trainer for junior staff and may act as a study lead, providing task direction and ensuring adherence to quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

Study Conduct & Compliance

• Execute study activities in alignment with protocols, SOPs, laboratory methods, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and established safety requirements.
• Demonstrate working knowledge of study design and proper execution of research procedures.
• Administer test and control materials via multiple routes, including gavage, intravenous, intramuscular, intraperitoneal, subcutaneous, capsule, and diet/drinking water.
• Administer anesthesia across all species in the facility and monitor anesthetic recovery.
  
  

Animal Care & Technical Procedures

• Collect and review in-life and husbandry data (e.g., body weights, clinical observations, food consumption) for various study types including toxicology, reproductive toxicity, oncology, and infectious disease studies.
• Perform specialized reproductive procedures such as mating, estrous stage identification, vaginal lavage, handling pregnant/nursing animals, and evaluating pubertal developmental indices.
• Safely handle and restrain multiple species including rodents, rabbits, ferrets, dogs, and non-human primates at ABSL-1, 2, and 3 levels.
• Conduct sample and specimen collection, animal identification procedures, necropsies, and tissue harvesting.
• Assist in surgeries, including equipment sterilization and preparation.
  
  

Data Management & Documentation

• Set up, maintain, and review study files using the Provantis data collection system.
• Perform electronic randomization procedures within Provantis.
• Create and revise forms, SOPs, and documentation as needed.
  
  

Leadership & Training

• Assist with onboarding and training new laboratory personnel in technical procedures.
• Act as study lead as assigned, managing supplies, ensuring paperwork accuracy, and cross-checking study protocols with ACUP and BPR requirements.
• Monitor junior team member work quality and provide coaching and mentoring.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field and at least 4 years of relevant laboratory experience.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow SOPs, GLP regulations, and study protocols.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to wear PPE (including N95 or PAPR) for extended periods.
• Ability to work overtime and participate in rotating weekend/holiday schedules.
• Demonstrated ability to learn, apply, and teach scientific methods and laboratory techniques.
• Must meet all entry, medical, and vaccination requirements for ABSL-2 and ABSL-3 environments, with immunizations determined by the agents handled (e.g., Tetanus, Hepatitis B, Smallpox, Polio, Yellow Fever, Influenza).