03/01/83 A

Directs and coordinates the animal care, laboratory, and business management functions of the agency’s central animal research facilities.

Supervises lower level technicians and other workers. Direction is received from the department head who provides policy and technical guidance where necessary.

The work entails overall responsibility for all activities related to the custody, care, and humane treatment of all animals in the agency's central animal research division in accordance with agency, state and federal regulations. Other responsibilities include supervising facilities and equipment, procurement and distribution of animals and supplies, records maintenance, and fiscal and budgetary activities.

Oversees the technical and laboratory work performed by subordinate technicians. Independently performs complicated surgical procedures on a variety of animal species, and assists medical investigators in experimental research involving major animal surgery.

Supervisory duties include organizing and instructing training classes, and directing on-the-job training of subordinates.

Knowledge of the principles and techniques of animal care, hygiene, and laboratory animal science. Knowledge of laboratory equipment and procedures. Skill in performing complicated animal surgery. Ability to communicate and work with physicians, medical investigators and other research professionals. Ability to plan and direct the activities of subordinate technicians and clerks.

Graduation from college with major studies in biology, zoology or a related field, and experience (including supervisory experience) in laboratory animal science. Certification as a Senior Laboratory Animal Technician by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science is preferred. Training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skill and abilities may substitute for college graduation.