Animal Technician

Animal Technician

Location: San Francisco, CA
Schedule: Monday to Friday (Full-time)
Eligibility: Must be eligible to work in the U.S.

Job Summary

The Animal Technician is responsible for the daily care, feeding, and maintenance of research animals in accordance with applicable federal, state, and institutional regulations. The role includes maintaining clean and healthy environments for animals, monitoring their well-being, and supporting veterinary and research staff. This position supports various species of laboratory animals across multiple research facilities in the city of San Francisco.

Key Responsibilities

Animal Care & Room Sanitation

Perform daily maintenance of vivarium facilities under general supervision.

Change cages and racks according to established schedules.

Feed and water laboratory animals per species-specific protocols.

Handle animals humanely and monitor their well-being.

Monitor and report room conditions (temperature, humidity, cleanliness).

Communicate housing or husbandry issues to relevant staff.

Assist in preparing animal cages for transport between facilities.

Perform cage wash and sanitation duties as needed.

Ensure all activities comply with SOPs, federal/state regulations, AAALAC, and institutional standards.

Identify and report any protocol or compliance concerns in assigned areas.

Animal Health

Observe and report signs of illness or distress to supervisory staff or veterinary personnel.

Assist in the restraint and examination of animals as needed.

Support animal health programs, including sample collection and health screenings.

Administer routine treatments or medications under supervision.

Assist with behavioral training related to research procedures.

Record Keeping

Maintain accurate and legible records including feed logs, health charts, and per-diem records.

Perform sanitation verifications (e.g., water temperature, autoclave readings).

Use barcode scanners and software systems to track animal census and health status.

Complete required documentation for regulatory agencies and IACUC compliance.

Facility & Equipment Maintenance

Use basic hand tools to perform minor repairs on cages, racks, and watering systems.

Replace and maintain filters (e.g., HEPA, biosafety cabinet, room filters).

Restock supplies such as feed, PPE, and cleaning agents.

Load and unload supplies and animals as needed.

Miscellaneous

Support housing and husbandry needs for a variety of species (rodents to primates).

Flexibility to perform duties typically assigned to Assistant Animal Technicians.

Expected to take the AALAS ALAT certification exam within 24 months of employment.

May receive reassignment to other species, areas, or facilities based on operational needs.

Minimum Qualifications

High School diploma or GED.

Completion of training equivalent to AALAS Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) certification.

At least 1 year of animal care, handling, or vivarium experience.

Alternatively, high school graduation with 2 years of animal care experience with relevant species, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience with animal sanitation equipment and procedures.

Ability to communicate health concerns clearly and maintain accurate records.

Basic computer skills (email, barcode scanning, electronic health reports).

Ability to work in BSL-2 (or higher) environments and follow all safety protocols.

Preferred Qualifications

AALAS certification or willingness to obtain within 24 months.

Familiarity with USDA and IACUC regulations.

Experience working with multiple animal species.

Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.