Behavioral Technician II

Role Summary

In coordination with veterinary staff, the Behavioral Technician II is primarily responsible for coordinating and developing the animal behavioral health, enrichment, and acclimation/training programs to meet regulatory requirements.

Role Responsibilities

• In close coordination with veterinarians, develop and directly oversee an environmental enrichment program for all species, including but not limited to macaques, swine, dogs, and rodents.

• Oversee socialization of social species.

• Maintain records for medical and/or behavioral exemptions to social housing or other components of the enrichment program.

• Create and maintain a database that allows for tracking and ordering food and non-food enrichment supplies.

• Perform species-specific acclimation and positive reinforcement training, including but not limited to pole and collar, chair restraint, transfer box, transfer tunnel, target training, and sling acclimation. Collaborate and coordinate with in-life technical staff.

• Collaborate closely with veterinarians to oversee and coordinate behavioral management of colony and training animals, including management of abnormal behaviors.

• Support training department and veterinarians in training of in-life technical staff in animal behavior, enrichment, positive reinforcement, and animal training.

• Implement appropriate standard operating procedures and other procedural documents.

• Other duties as assigned

Role Requirements

• HS diploma/GED required.

• AS/BS/MS or equivalent in animal behavior or other life science related discipline with 1 year experience in behavioral or laboratory animal science OR 3 years’ experience in behavioral or laboratory animal science required.

• ALAT/LAT/LATG certification preferred.

• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office core applications. Ability to learn and use additional applications.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

• Ability to handle common laboratory species.

• Basic understanding of study design and protocols.

• Knowledge of Animal Welfare Regulations, the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, Good Laboratory Practice Regulations, and other regulations/guidance documents relating to care of laboratory animals.

• Advanced understanding of laboratory operations and data collection

Behavioral Expectations

• Self-Motivation

• Communication

• Problem Solving

Special Requirements

• The person in this role will spend approximately 25% in an office setting and 75% in the laboratory. There will be exposure to animal pathogens and chemicals. There will be handling of and/or exposure to animal tissues and zoonotic organisms.

• Ability to don and wear personal protective gear, including respirators.

• Physical activity including lifting (up to 50lbs), carrying (up to 40lbs for up to 50 feet), pushing/pulling (up to 75lbs force), reaching, gripping/pinching, standing and ascending ladder without restriction.

• Ability to work beyond typical work schedule including but not limited to evenings, weekends, extended shifts with short notice.