Independent Contractor Animal Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Description

In support of Virginia Tech's growing research enterprise, the Animal Resources and Care Division (ARCD) is seeking an Animal Care & Operations Manager. The individual serves in a leadership position within the Research Vivaria, and will be responsible for the following:
1. Manages the daily operations and space utilization of one or more ARCD animal facilities that include a specialized or complex function or program (e.g., gnotobiotics; ABSL3, and or select agent biocontainment).
2. Designs, develops, implements, and maintains policies, practices, and activities that support the complex function or program.
3. Manages the responsibilities and work assignments of animal care personnel assigned to the animal facility.
This position is primarily located in Blacksburg, Virginia but provides backup support for other Blacksburg facilities and Roanoke campus as needed, and the incumbent must be able to perform responsibilities at any location. This is a leadership position and is expected to work both independently and as part of a team with minimal to limited supervision from the positions' direct supervisor. This position may serve as a backup to the Associate Director of Animal Care Operations, as needed.

Required Qualifications

Associate degree in Animal Science (or a similar biological science) OR an equivalent combination of a high school diploma (or equivalent) and demonstrated relevant experience.
Certification by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) at the Laboratory Animal Technician (LATG) level. Strong candidates without LATG certification may be considered and are required to obtain LATG certification within 24 months if hired.
Valid US driver's license.
Demonstrated experience working with a variety of animals in an animal research or animal production facility with time served in a supervisory role.
Experience working in the specialized or complex function or program (e.g., gnotobiotics; ABSL3 or select agent biocontainment) relevant to the position and preferably in a senior or supervisory capacity.
Ability to pass an FBI background check and obtain within 12 months of hire and maintain a federal government Security Risk Assessment (SRA) clearance to work in ABSL-3 select agent facilities.
Strong working knowledge of animal husbandry practices and procedures for common laboratory animals.
Strong working knowledge of all animal facility functional areas and operations, including cage wash facilities.
Demonstrated leadership experience.
Ability to work directly with a variety of laboratory animal species.
Ability to wear personal protection equipment (PPE) appropriate for the species, animal housing conditions, or work area.
Must be able to stand for extended periods of time; push, pull, reach, and bend repeatedly; lift and move 50 lbs., including caging and bags of animal feed and bedding; visualize, assess, handle, and restrain both small and large animal species; work with and negotiate around animal facility caging and equipment; operate mechanical equipment required by the position; accurately and legibly document written information; utilize email; and effectively communicate verbally. Vaccinations and/or TB testing may be required to work in some animal holding areas.
Basic computer skills including the ability to utilize common software applications (e.g., email, Word, Excel).
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to face and resolve conflict.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree or higher in Animal Science or a similar biological science.
Aquatic experience for positions that support zebrafish and other aquatic species.

Pay Band

5

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

Commensurate with experience, starting at $75,000

Hours per week

40

Review Date

June 7, 2026

Additional Information

We are unable to sponsor work visas for this position.

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.