Veterinary Technician II

For 75 years, Charles River employees have worked together to assist in the discovery, development and safe manufacture of new drug therapies. When you join our family, you will have a significant impact on the health and well-being of people across the globe. Whether your background is in life sciences, finance, IT, sales or another area, your skills will play an important role in the work we perform. In return, we’ll help you build a career that you can feel passionate about.

JOB SUMMARY

 

Under the direction of veterinary staff, maintain and monitor the health and physical environment of Charles River or external customer animals involving complex instructions and requiring technical expertise. Assist veterinary staff in the documentation and triage of all laboratory animal health cases. May also perform technical in-life procedures.
 
 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
 

• Assist veterinary staff in the documentation and triage of all animal health cases noted by technical staff and/or Attending Veterinarian.
• Conduct regular clinical rounds and routine health monitoring and examinations in support of studies and in accordance with the requirements of the research program, and assure the implementation of preventive measures such as vaccinations, anthelmintic treatments, etc.
• Investigate site staff reports of animal health issues and/or conditions suggesting problems with animal well being. As appropriate, recommend, administer, and record (following coordination with study directors) routine treatment of animals. Generate summary reports as necessary.
• Perform and document appropriate clinical observations. Ensure corrective actions for health or welfare issues are developed and implemented in accordance with the research programs.
• Notify veterinary staff and other appropriate personnel of conditions that are indicative of pain and distress or other abnormal findings that could lead to such conditions or compromise studies.
• Perform routine veterinary technical and husbandry skills including the following:
  • Administration of various therapeutic measures by IV, IM, SQ, topical, oral routes, etc.
  • Bandage/wrapping techniques
  • Venipuncture techniques
  • Vaginal swabs
  • Proficient animal restraint techniques.
  • Monitor critical care animals (i.e., place IVs, monitor fluids, etc.).
• Perform animal follow-up observations or new findings as required.
• Monitor animal health, visually, and by following detailed schedules.
• Generate animal treatment records and perform, track and schedule follow-ups.
• Maintain appropriate medical records for each animal in accordance with study and regulatory requirements. Assist in maintaining accurate record keeping procedures for the veterinary department.
• Maintain and follow complex procedures to ensure appropriate animal health and treatment.
• Provide input into the creation/revision of SOPs and assist in implementation and training of new SOPs.
• Assist in providing leadership, animal health training, and guidance to less experienced technical staff and other laboratory personnel.
• Assist in keeping inventory and stocking the vet rooms (i.e., drugs and supplies). Assist in organizing and maintaining the vet exam rooms.
• May be responsible for tissue sampling, routine animal manipulations and administration of fluids or other treatments as required.
• May perform routine technical and husbandry functions (general housekeeping) on studies and must adhere to safety procedures.
• Assist in surgery and peri-surgery care, e.g. provide and monitor anesthesia, prepare surgical packs, administer supportive therapy.
• Perform all other related duties as assigned.

 

The pay for this position is $27-$29/hr. Please note that compensation varies based on factors including, but not limited to, experience, skills, education, and certifications.

 

 

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

 

 

Education: Graduate of a collegiate veterinary technology program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Training Activities or equivalent program in veterinary technology preferred. Candidates with a four-year degree in a relevant life science (e.g. Animal Science, Biology or Veterinary Technology) may be considered.
 
 

Experience: 3-5 years related experience working with animals in a pre-clinical laboratory or clinical setting; experience working with Nonhuman Primates is strongly preferred.

 
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted as a satisfactory substitute for the specific education and experience listed above if the individual is credentialed as a Certified Vete