Socialization/Animal Trainer Specialist

Under general supervision of the Comparative Medicine Behavioral Management Services Supervisor, this person will follow current social housing procedures and animal training techniques to support the Comparative Medicine program. Performs behavioral shaping and conditioning of research animals to cooperate with research, medical and husbandry procedures, and develops plans for such procedures. Maintains appropriate documentation and records for social housing, conditioning, and training animals, and maintains the necessary equipment. Assists with updating and reviewing relevant SOPs, and provides feedback to the supervisor regarding issues and progress. Assists in technical study support and the collection of samples from research animals.  

High school or equivalent and five (5) years of directly related work experience or bachelor’s degree and two (2) years’ of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience from which comparable knowledge, skill and abilities have been attained.

Must have knowledge of animal husbandry methods and techniques, knowledge of local, state, federal regulations pertaining to animal husbandry and animal welfare, knowledge of supplies, equipment, and/or services ordering and inventory control, knowledge of the use and maintenance of laboratory facilities and/or equipment and procedures.

Must be able to understand and follow written and verbal instructions and procedures. Must have a general understanding of disease transmission from within and outside the facility. Ability to observe, assess, and record animal progress during socialization and conditioning and/or training session. Must be able to work with and handle various large and small animals and instruct others to do so. Species include, but are not limited to, rodents, dogs, ferrets, rabbits, swine, and nonhuman primates.

Must be able to access KAFB and get to the South facility on scheduled work days. Must be available to work scheduled shifts, including weekends and holidays. Work environment may require vaccinations/immunizations as a condition of employment

AALAS certification at the Technician (LAT) level preferred.

Work is performed in laboratory and vivarium/animal housing environments.  Will frequently stand, sit, walk, kneel, crawl, reach/work overhead, frequently lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 50 pounds, perform repetitive and perform desk-based computer tasks.  Will wear personal protective equipment which may include a respirator.  Will work in close proximity to research animals and may be required to work in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious agents are present which may require vaccinations.The above is intended to describe the general requirements for the position and should not be interpreted as an exhaustive statement of physical requirements.  The Institute will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires an accommodation to perform the essential functions of the position.

Salary is commensurate with experience + $500 sign-on bonus.

Lovelace Biomedical is an Equal Opportunity Employer