03/01/83 C

Supervises activities related to the custody, care and humane treatment of animals, and to the research procedures performed on them. Activities may take place in a general hospital or animal research facility.

Trains and supervises lower level technicians and other workers. Reports to an Animal Care Supervisor or other superior.

Responsibilities include consulting with investigators, faculty and graduate students to develop protocols for animal care and study; assuring that all animals are properly cared for; recognizing deviations from the normal in the animals’ condition and behavior; and training, scheduling and supervising lower level technicians. Performs data gathering and record keeping duties. Collects samples such as blood and urine, and administers drugs and anesthetics. Is responsible for the maintenance of equipment and supplies. May handle animals, especially primates or other higher species, during certain procedures.

Knowledge of the principles of animal care and hygiene. Knowledge of basic laboratory procedures. Ability to work with animals. Ability to train and supervise the work of others.

Graduation from high school, and laboratory and animal care experience. Certification as a Senior Laboratory Animal Technician by the American Association of Laboratory Animal Science is preferred. Training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for high school graduation.