What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Care Technician position at Franklin Bio Lab?
Franklin Biolabs emerges from the esteemed legacy of Dr. Jim Wilson's laboratory, a beacon of innovation in vector technology for over three decades. Building on this rich heritage, Franklin Biolabs is poised to redefine the landscape of the global genetic medicines industry. As a Contract Research Organization (CRO), Franklin Biolabs offers a comprehensive suite of services spanning from discovery through clinical manufacturing. Our goal is to empower our partners by providing unparalleled solutions that drive the advancement of genetic medicines. Leveraging decades of expertise and a commitment to excellence, we bridge the gap between groundbreaking research and ensuring that transformative therapies reach those who need them most.
We are in search of an Animal Care Technician who will be responsible for performing efficient high-quality animal care and husbandry for a variety of species, including an expanding colony of nonhuman primates to maintain the highest standard of care and cleanliness. Responsibilities include:
- Animal care duties such as feeding, medicating, cleaning, restraining, and transporting animals.
- Handle, transfer, and distribute supplies and waste as needed to and from work area(s).
- Monitor animal health by observing animal behavior, physical appearance, and physical environment. Identify and report any abnormal findings.
- Perform physical environment housekeeping duties and oversee environmental conditions such as humidity and temperature according to company Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Maintain logs and documentation in accordance with company standards.
- Perform all job-related duties in accordance with company safety procedures.
- Oversee vivarium supplies and resources.
- All associated equipment processing documentation, and research support requirements as outlined within Franklin Biolabs policies and departmental standard operating procedures.
- Perform all other related duties as assigned.
Education and Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED) and 2 years of laboratory animal care experience (e.g. basic husbandry),
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED) ALAT certification, and 1-2 years of laboratory animal care experience (e.g. basic husbandry),
- Associate’s degree (AA/AS) in animal science, veterinary technology, biology or a related field and 0-1 year of experience.
- Experience supporting studies under Good Laboratory Practices (21 CFR Part 58).
Certifications or Licenses
- None required.
- AALAS ALAT certification is highly desired.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Knowledge of regulatory compliance and agencies (USDA, OLAW, FDA, AAALAC).
- Knowledge of Standard Operating Procedures, Good Documentation Practices, Good Laboratory Practices.
- Knowledge of animal care and use and regulatory expectations.
- Ability to work with nonhuman primates and other laboratory animal species without jeopardizing the health status of the animals.
- Franklin Biolabs maintains ABSL (animal biosafety levels) 2 facilities; Ability to perform job duties while wearing respiratory protection may be required.
- Self-directed individual with the ability to perform in a fast-paced environment, with competing priorities under tight deadlines.
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, to interact with team members, clients, vendors and other third parties.
- Ability to use digital communication tools (video conferencing, chat platforms etc.) to effectively collaborate with team members.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with individuals across various disciplines to ensure alignment.
- Ability to work as a team with various tasks, embracing teamwork.
On-Site
- This position requires full-time on-site presence at our Discovery Labs location in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania.
Immunizations and Screenings
- This position will require working with animals (e.g. Non-Human Primates, Rabbits, Rats, Mice).
- TB test & Measles Titer
Essential Status
- Essential for Closure: This position may be required to go on-site during company closures to sustain the life and care of animals/biological materials. Examples of company closures include snow days, special shutdowns, etc.
- Essential for Research: This position may be required to go on-site to perform their regular work functions related to continued research during periods of adjusted operations. This would not likely be required to go on-site during a company closure under normal business operations.
Vision
- Ability to distinguish between different colors (normal color vision).
- Ability to see clearly at various distances.
- Adequate near vision for reading documents or lab equipment.
- Ability to focus and maintain concentration in tasks for extended periods.
- Ability to work in environments with varying light conditions.
Physical Requirements
- This position frequently requires the ability to lift, push, pull, and carry varying amounts of weight; up to 50 pounds.
- Frequently required to bend, walk, and reach.
Company Benefits
- 401(k)
- 401(k) Matching
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Health Savings Account and Flexible Spending Account
- Paid Time-Off
- Company Paid Holidays
- Personal Floating Holidays
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
- Life and AD&D insurance (Group & Voluntary)