Head Animal Care Technician

The individual in this role is accountable for collaborating with and supervising colleagues in the animal care facility to ensure the proper maintenance and care of housed animals, in accordance with institutional animal care protocols and state and federal regulations. This includes managing inventory levels of subject animals to meet faculty needs, and overseeing the upkeep of cages, tanks, life support systems, cleaning equipment, and experimental apparatus associated with animal care.

The role also involves implementing faculty-specific research protocols and providing training to students and staff on animal care and equipment usage. The individual ensures that anyone involved in animal research or teaching completes the required training certification prior to handling animals and provides additional training based on the scope of the activities. The position coordinates with the consulting veterinarian for surgical training and authorizations as needed.

The individual is responsible for overseeing the work of other technicians, ensuring quality and accuracy in their tasks, and may also manage technician scheduling and coverage. Consultation with the attending veterinarian is required to address veterinary needs for species and maintain the occupational health program for animal handlers.

As a voting member of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), the individual provides feedback on protocols, consults on animal care status, evaluates the current animal care program, and conducts regular inspections of all animal care spaces.

The individual must adhere to Colgate University's Chemical Hygiene Plan and ensure a safe environment for all. This includes staying current with relevant animal care regulations from agencies such as the NYS Department of Health, USDA Animal Welfare Act, and PHS, and advising faculty and staff on compliance with these regulations.

Experience working with common laboratory animal species (fish, frogs, birds, rodents) is preferred.

Highschool diploma or equivalent is required.
An undergraduate degree is preferred.

The position involves regular lifting of items up to 20 lbs, including feed bags, animal cages, and other essential equipment for animal care.

The University recognizes that equal employment opportunity can only be achieved through demonstrated leadership. It is the Policy of the University to recruit, employ, retain, promote, and train employees on the basis of merit, ability, and valid job qualifications without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable local, state or federal laws or Executive Orders.