Animal Caretaker (Part-Time) - Jarvis Lab

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we're unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.

• A competitive hourly compensation package with comprehensive HHMI health and wellness benefits.
• Hands-on training and mentorship from day one with a supportive, easygoing supervisor.
• The rewarding experience of working with animals daily — including witnessing the hatching process firsthand.
• Attendance at open lab meetings for ongoing scientific learning and self-development.
• Access to the Field Research Center's outdoor walking trails and beautiful upstate New York setting.
• Opportunity to join a welcoming, open-minded team within the broader Rockefeller University research community.

• →Manage the bird colony day-to-day alongside other team members — including health checks, monitoring, handling, feeding, breeding, and collecting specimens for zebra finches, parakeets, Japanese quail, and other bird species.
• →Clean bird cages and research accessories on a regular basis to maintain a safe and organized environment.
• →Prepare feed for the bird colony and administer topical and oral medications as directed.
• →Assist with general lab organization and cleanliness.
• →Drive a lab vehicle around the facility as needed (valid NY state driver's license required).
• →Other duties as assigned — everyone on this team wears multiple hats.

Required:

• High school diploma or GED.
• A valid New York State driver's license and willingness to drive in various weather conditions.
• Ability to move and lift up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time, walk, bend and/or crouch on hard surfaces.
• Comfort and willingness to work with live animals on a daily basis — including comfort with euthanasia procedures when required.
• A self-starter with strong initiative, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to work.
• Comfortable working independently for periods of time.
• Excellent organizational, multitasking, and time management skills.
• Ability to work well with a small, close-knit team.

Preferred:

• At least 1 year of hands-on professional or research experience working with animals in any capacity — prior bird experience is a strong plus.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however.  Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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