What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cage Wash Attendant position at The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia?
The University of Virginia seeks applicants for Cage Wash Attendant opportunities within the Center for Comparative Medicine (CCM). Cage Wash Attendants play a critical role in supporting high-quality animal care by ensuring that all caging, equipment, and sanitation processes meet strict research and welfare standards.
As a Cage Wash Attendant, you'll be part of a hands-on, task-focused team responsible for operating cage-washing equipment, maintaining clean and sanitary environments, and supporting the smooth functioning of the facility. This position involves physical activity, routine exposure to warm and humid environments, and working directly with equipment used in animal facilities. Team members are expected to limit personal phone use during shifts to maintain safety and focus.
This role is ideal for individuals who are reliable, detail-oriented, and motivated to contribute to essential research support services. No prior experience is required - comprehensive training is provided, and CCM offers opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
If you're looking for meaningful work in a supportive environment with room to grow, we encourage you to apply.
Responsibilities and Duties:
Empty soiled bedding, process caging through automated cage washers, and properly dispose of bedding using required PPE.
Prepare clean caging, assemble rodent cages, and sterilize caging per set standards.
Maintain cage wash and storage rooms in a clean, organized condition through sweeping, mopping, spraying, and daily cleaning of washers and sterilizers.
Assist with general sanitation of hallways and common areas as directed.
Follow all policies and procedures to ensure compliance and safety.
Work a Monday-Friday schedule that includes some holidays as needed to ensure consistent care.
Additional responsibilities may be assigned to meet operational needs.
Minimum Requirements
High School Diploma or equivalent
Pre-employment health screening required per UVA Health OCH-002 policy.
Preferred Requirements:
Experience in a lab, industrial cleaning, or animal facility setting
Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Certificate (ALAT) or interest in pursuing professional certification
Strong attention to detail
Effective verbal and written communication skills
Physical Demands:
This is a highly active, physically demanding role;
This position requires continuous movement throughout the shift. Employees should expect:
Frequent standing, walking, pushing, pulling, and repetitive motion (majority of shift).
Regular bending, squatting, twisting, and reaching.
Occasional lifting up to 40 lbs. and use of ladders or step stools.
Required personal protective equipment includes gloves, protective clothing, masks, and hearing protection in cage wash areas.
Sensory Requirements: Vision, depth perception, color vision, near and peripheral vision, hearing, and speaking.
Starting Compensation: $17.00/ hour; commensurate with education and experience.
This is a non-exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits.This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on-site.
Background checks and pre-employment health screening will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.
This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship at this time or in the future.
Application Instructions: Please apply online and search for R0082180; Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website. Include the following document:
CV/resume
Upload all materials into the resume submission field. You can submit multiple documents into this one field or combine them into one PDF. Applications without all required documents will not receive full consideration.
Reference checks will be completed by UVA's third-party partner, SkillSurvey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required.
For questions about the application process, please contact Jessica Speth, Academic Recruiter.
About UVA and the Community
To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.
The University of Virginia, including the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician’s Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff. We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences. We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, veteran or military status, and family medical or genetic information.
Salary : $17