A mid-level position that works both independently and under
supervision. Working closely with veterinary and behavioral management,
the enrichment technician performs a variety of tasks related to the
implementation and maintenance of the behavioral management program for
nonhuman primates.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Research, design, implement and evaluate new enrichment devices or items. This includes for indoor housing, indoor/outdoor housing, and field cages.
- Collects data on use of enrichment devices and tailored programs and alters as necessary to meet the needs of the animal and to continually improve the enrichment program.
- Identifies animals that need to be placed on the intervention program and creates a tailored enrichment program specific for the animal’s needs.
- Organizes enrichment schedules, prepares devices, and distributes enrichment paperwork and or equipment throughout the site.
- Works closely with area supervisors to understand specific enrichment needs based on housing and business decisions.
- Expected to come up with new ideas to continually enhance the animal’s environment through structural, physical, or positive human interaction.
- Responsible for maintaining an approved, compiled list of enrichment devices, availability, maintenance, and forecasting business needs.
- Assist with animal socializations and compatibility assessments.
- Performs habituation and operant conditioning techniques to animals when necessary and/or requested.
- Assists with stocking, cleaning, and maintaining all kitchen equipment including break-down, maintenance and restoration of equipment.
- Follows departmental safety procedures
- Evaluate and propose new approaches, ideas and concepts for existing tasks and/or improve/replace existing procedures or systems.
- Occasional travel may be required.
Required:
- Associates Degree, Bachelor’s degree preferred.
- A combination of education and experience may be considered.
- AALAS Certification at the ALAT level is preferred or should be obtained within the first year of employment.
- At least 2 years professional working experience with old-world primate species. Other lab animal experience may be considered.
- At least 2 years’ experience working with enrichment ideas in a lab animal environment.
- 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.
Link to job posting: Enrichment Technician II in Alice, Texas | Careers at Alice Texas (icims.com)