Description The Children's National Research Institute Comparative Medicine Unit (CMU) Animal Care Technician provides husbandry and sanitation following standard operating procedures for rodent species; maintains cleanliness of holding rooms and ancillary rooms; observes animals for changes in behavior, dietary habits, and signs of illnesses; observes room environment; receives incoming shipments; maintains per diem inventory; assists in the administration of health treatment prescribed; monitors supplies used in conjunction with duties, cages, cage equipment, and cleaning supplies. The physical demands of this position require an individual with dexterity for handling animals, the ability to lift 50lbs, and the capability to stand for the majority of the work shift. The workplace is a research facility; there is the potential for exposure to chemicals used to sanitize, zoonotic diseases, and the possibility of being bitten, scratched or kicked. Allergic responses may develop to animal dander. Also, the individual must be able to perform all the duties of a CMU Technician if needed. The position is designated as "essential" and the individual may be expected to work when normal campus operations are suspended (e.g.: inclement weather) or if there is an emergency impacting the CMU. In addition, staff may be expected to work outside of regular schedule during peak activity periods (e.g.: overtime, weekends). To the extent possible, managers will provide timely notice of modified work schedules. This position provides an opportunity to learn highly specialized laboratory animal research skills and grow within the professional field and the department.

Qualifications Minimum Education
High School Diploma or GED (Required)

Minimum Work Experience
1 year High school graduate or equivalent with at least 12 months experience in laboratory animal care required. (Required)

Required Skills/Knowledge
Documented evidence of specialized experience demonstrates possession of the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the duties of this position. (must be supported by a detailed description of experience on a resume).
Ability to perform within a team-oriented work environment.
Basic computer skills required, including familiarity with navigating web-based applications.
Knowledge of the biology and physical characteristics of animals used in research and the ability to recognize signs of illness and abnormalities
Knowledge regarding the methods and materials used in laboratory work
Ability to work and communicate professionally with investigators, supervisors and caretakers
Ability to make accurate observations, keep current, accurate, and complete records
Ability to read, understand, and interpret written and oral instruction and perform math calculations in conduct of experimental procedures
Ability to recognize common signs of illness, variations in eating habits, abnormal stool, urine deposits, and unusual behavior.
Knowledge of laws and regulations affecting the use of animals in biomedical research.
Knowledge of sanitation, sterilization, and biohazard control techniques.
Physical demands require a healthy individual with dexterity; manual dexterity is required to handle animals
Ability to stand for long periods of time (up to 6 hours) and lift 50 lbs.
Ability to communicate clearly via e-mail, phone, and text message.

Required Licenses and Certifications
Eligibility for ALAT certification (Preferred)

Functional Accountabilities
Responsible Conduct of Research

Consistently demonstrates adherence to the standards for the responsible conduct of research.

Uses research funds and resources appropriately.

Maintains confidentiality of data as required.

Meets all annual job-related training and compliance requirements.

Husbandry Operations

Observes animals daily for signs of health; receives, examines, transfers and properly houses incoming animal shipments according to SOPs.

Administers medication and treatment as prescribed by the veterinarian.

Provides adequate food and water for all assigned cages.

Maintains daily and weekly sanitation of cages, assigned rooms and common areas.

Communication

Promptly notify management of fluctuations in temperature and humidity.

Correctly document room sheets, sanitation logs for common areas, inventory, and health reports

Technical Assistance

Collect diagnostic specimens following SOP.

Participates in handling and manipulation training when offered.

Performs procedures as requested.

Organizational Accountabilities
Organizational Accountabilities (Staff)
Organizational Commitment/Identification

Anticipate and responds to customer needs; follows up until needs are met

Teamwork/Communication

Demonstrate collaborative and respectful behavior

Partner with all team members to achieve goals

Receptive to others’ ideas and opinions

Performance Improvement/Problem-solving

Contribute to a positive work environment

Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to change

Identify opportunities to improve clinical and administrative processes

Make appropriate decisions, using sound judgment

Cost Management/Financial Responsibility

Use resources efficiently

Search for less costly ways of doing things

Safety

Speak up when team members appear to exhibit unsafe behavior or performance

Continuously validate and verify information needed for decision making or documentation

Stop in the face of uncertainty and takes time to resolve the situation

Demonstrate accurate, clear and timely verbal and written communication

Actively promote safety for patients, families, visitors and co-workers

Attend carefully to important details - practicing Stop, Think, Act and Review in order to self-check behavior and performance

Primary Location: District of Columbia-Washington

Work Locations: CN Hospital (Main Campus) 111 Michigan Avenue NW Washington 20010

Job: Research

Organization: OPHS

Position Status: R (Regular) - FT - Full-Time

Shift: Day

Work Schedule: M-F with Rotating Weekend

Job Posting: Oct 27, 2025, 6:49:27 AM

Full-Time Salary Range: 37336 - 60444.8

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Animal Care Technician CMU

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