Envigo provides the broadest range of research models and related services to the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, government, academia, and other life science organizations. We pride ourselves on recruiting the best - professional, forward thinking, enthusiastic and highly motivated people who are passionate about what we do and believe in what we stand for…making a difference in people’s lives. We are evolving to become the best company to work with and to work for. Come and join us as an Environmental Enrichment Technician I in our Alice, TX location - we have an exciting future ahead!
Job Summary:
Implement and improve the environmental enhancement plan for all nonhuman primates by working closely with the veterinary and behavioral management teams.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Perform animal socializations for pairs or groups and complete related documentation.
- Conduct behavioral compatibility assessments during social introductions for pairs, social groups and breeding groups.
- Recognize abnormal or stereotypic behaviors and create tailored enrichment plans. Implement, track and document effective plans.
- Develop and implement shaping plans to prepare animals for research procedures (reduce fear, cooperative feeding, target training, etc.). Maintain, evaluate and improve documentation as needed.
- Work closely with the veterinary and animal care staff to ensure proper animal care standards are maintained.
- Propose new ideas, as needed, for socialization strategies and tailored enrichment plans.
- Help identify foster/mentor dams and assist with placement of orphans back into the breeding colony (Infant Foster-Mentor Program).
- Train new hires on natural history, animal behavior and positive reinforcement techniques for nonhuman primates.
- Participate in client communications, audits and meetings.
- Create and maintain client spreadsheets.
- Create and deliver presentations for clients.
General
- Evaluate and propose new approaches, ideas and concepts for existing tasks and/or improve/replace existing procedures or systems.
- Principal Contacts
- Internal- Site Director, Veterinarians, Assoc. Director of Behavioral Sciences, Rhesus Manager(s), Senior Manager of Operations and Client Services.
- Travel Requirements:
- Yes, occasional travel may be required.
- Language Skills Required:
- Speaking:
- English
- Speaking:
- Writing/Reading:
- English
Education/Qualifications Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in relevant field preferred.
- A combination of education and experience may be considered.
- AALAS Certification at the LAT level is preferred or should be obtained within the first year of employment.
Experience Required:
- At least 4 years professional working experience with old-world primate species. Other lab animal experience may be considered.
- At least 2-3 years behavioral study of nonhuman primates required.
- Understand the Animal Welfare Act and how it pertains to the psychological well-being of nonhuman primates in laboratory animal management.
- Computer skills: proficient with Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently as well as in collaboration with a wide variety of personnel.
Special Factors:
- Mandatory TB tests.
- Work in inclement and extreme temperatures.
- Holiday, weekend or “off hour” work may be required.