Animal Husbandry Technician
This job role involves caring for and breeding animals, usually in a farm, lab, or where animal production is critical. They manage the welfare of animals and assist in various breeding programs.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Animal Husbandry Technician
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As an Animal Husbandry Technician, you will be responsible for the care and management of animals within a lab or agricultural setting. Your duties will include feeding, cleaning, monitoring animal health, and maintaining records.
Required Skills
- Strong observational skills to detect health or welfare issues in animals.
- Basic knowledge of animal care and handling techniques.
- Effective communication skills for reporting and record keeping.
- Organizational skills for managing tasks and schedules.
- Commitment to animal welfare and ethical treatment.
Qualifications
- High-school diploma or equivalent; an associate's degree in animal science or related field is preferred.
- Ability to follow detailed instructions and adhere to strict protocols.
- Physical capability to lift and transport feed and equipment.
- Comfortable working in an environment with a variety of animals.
- Basic understanding of animal biology and husbandry principles.
Responsibilities
- Provide food and water to animals according to a strict schedule and diet plan.
- Clean and disinfect animal cages, enclosures, and bedding regularly.
- Monitor the health and behavior of animals and report any concerns to a supervisory veterinarian.
- Assist with the handling and restraint of animals for veterinary procedures or transfers.
- Maintain accurate records of animal breeding, health, and growth.
- Follow all biosecurity measures to prevent disease spread among animals.
- Participate in breeding programs, including the management of mating, gestation, and birthing processes.
- Ensure compliance with animal welfare and safety regulations.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
An Animal Husbandry Technician is responsible for the care, breeding, and management of animals within a laboratory or agricultural setting. They ensure the well-being of animals and maintain environments that promote health and productivity.
Required Skills
- Animal handling and care expertise
- Attention to detail and observation skills
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Strong communication and teamwork abilities
- Technical skills for using and maintaining equipment
- Data entry and record-keeping proficiency
- Ability to follow strict protocols and procedures
- Flexibility to work different shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, if necessary.
Qualifications
- A degree in animal science, biology, or a related field or equivalent experience in animal husbandry.
- 2-5 years of experience working with animals in a lab, farm, or related setting.
- Knowledge of animal behavior and welfare standards.
- Familiarity with the operation and maintenance of animal husbandry equipment.
- Understanding of biosecurity measures and protocols.
- Ability to lift heavy objects and perform physically demanding tasks.
- Strong observational and record-keeping skills.
- Valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation may be required.
Responsibilities
- Monitor the health and welfare of animals daily, identifying any signs of illness or stress and reporting them to a supervisor.
- Perform routine animal husbandry tasks, including feeding, watering, cleaning, and administering medications as prescribed.
- Operate and maintain equipment used in animal care, such as incubators, feeding systems, and environmental control systems.
- Assist with breeding programs, including artificial insemination, pregnancy checks, and the weaning of offspring.
- Record detailed data on animal health, behavior, and productivity, ensuring that records are kept up-to-date.
- Follow strict biosecurity measures to prevent disease transmission within and between animal populations.
- Participate in research studies, providing animal care and handling support as needed.
- Collaborate with veterinarians and researchers to optimize animal care protocols and improve animal welfare.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
The Senior Animal Husbandry Technician is responsible for overseeing the care and management of animals within a laboratory or breeding facility. This role ensures the well-being of animals, compliance with ethical standards, and adherence to protocols. The position involves supervisory responsibilities and requires extensive knowledge and experience in animal science, breeding, and facility operations.
Required Skills
- In-depth knowledge of animal physiology and husbandry techniques.
- Expertise in animal handling and restraint.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, research-oriented environment.
- Exceptional problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
- Proficiency with database management and record-keeping software.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in animal science, zoology, biology, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in animal husbandry or a related area.
- Strong understanding of animal behavior and welfare.
- Experience with the breeding and genetics of laboratory animals.
- Proficiency in regulatory compliance and accreditation standards.
- Ability to lead and manage a team.
- Excellent record-keeping and organizational skills.
- Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
Responsibilities
- Manage and oversee the daily care and breeding of animals within the facility.
- Ensure compliance with all regulatory and ethical standards for animal care and use.
- Coordinate with research teams to support experimental needs and animal selection.
- Maintain detailed records of animal lineage, health, and breeding outcomes.
- Develop and implement standard operating procedures for animal care and husbandry.
- Train and supervise junior technicians and staff in the proper care and handling of animals.
- Monitor the health and welfare of animals and take appropriate actions in case of illness or distress.
- Collaborate with veterinary staff to manage health programs including vaccinations, treatments, and surgeries.
- Manage the procurement and inventory of supplies and equipment for the animal facility.
- Continuously assess and improve facility protocols and animal welfare standards.
See other roles in Industrial, Construction, and Energy and Agriculture
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