May oversee the daily operations of a small animal care facility including the routine care of animals and maintenance of equipment.  Serves as a resource in the management of a particular technical specialty such as mice or primates.  Provides technical assistance to research and clinical medical personnel in the performance of research and emergency procedures.  Feeds animals and supervises the administration of special diets and medication.  Assists veterinarians with pre- and post- operative animal care.  Collects blood, urine, and other required specimens from animals as requested for medical research.  Observes and monitors animals for signs of illness, trauma or social instability.  Ensures that the facility complies with federal regulations for care and maintenance of research animals.  Follows protocol in the proper containment and disposal of biohazardous waste and contaminants.  Responsible for assisting with training and supervision of Animal Care Technicians. Performs related responsibilities as required.  Weekend work and overtime hours are a requirement of this position. Responsible for assessing and maintaining security of animals in their primary enclosure. May be designated as essential personnel during a storm/natural disaster.  If required to work during a closure, employee must provide accurate and current contact information and is responsible for maintaining communication with DCM.  Failure to report to work when requested by supervisor or manager will result in disciplinary action as outlined by the Staff Handbook.

Failure to meet established performance standards in the performance of the job duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description (or as otherwise assigned); and/or failure to interact courteously and tactfully with managers, co-workers, customers and/or vendors such that productivity or departmental morale suffers will result in management’s taking the appropriate disciplinary action as outlined in the Staff Handbook.       

Employee attendance must meet established work schedules.  Faithfulness in coming to work, being on time, planning absences in advance when possible, and calling in when unavoidably detained from reporting for work is an essential requirement of the job.