Animal Caretaker
West Des Moines, IA 
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Posted 10 days ago
Job Description

At DMU you will make a meaningful contribution to the dynamic future of Medicine and Health Sciences. DMU is seeking an Animal Caretaker to maintain the efficient operation of the animal care facility (ACF), as specified by the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW) Guide for the Care and Use of Animals (Guide), and governmental and accrediting body regulations. This includes record-keeping, cleaning facilities, acquiring, feeding, animal facility room reservation request monitoring, and humane disposal of animals.

What you'll do:

  • Comply with all procedures as outlined in OLAW Guide including but is not limited to:
  • Feed, water, and observe health and condition of animals.
  • Clean cages and facility floors.
  • Administer medications as needed.
  • Perform and record environmental monitoring, including temperature, humidity, microbial, insect and rodent prevention; respond to environmental alarms as needed, including after hours.
  • Coordinate animal procedure and testing room reservations from research labs
  • Comply with requirements of the Animal Welfare Act.
  • Document and communicate immediately any animal illness or injury to the Attending Veterinarian (AV), Principal Investigator and Animal Care Facility Supervisor, provide treatment as directed by the AV. Record treatment in the animal medical record.

What we're looking for:

  • High school degree or equivalent required.
  • Experience in scientific or veterinary small animal care strongly preferred.
  • Capable of using the following equipment: autoclave, security system, University vehicle, cage washer, clothes washer and dryer, incinerator, computer, pressurized hose, incinerator, water distilling equipment, calculator.
  • Demonstrated experience following established departmental procedures, guidelines, processes and/or direction.
  • Must have a current, valid Iowa driver's license.
  • Must be available to work weekends and holidays. Work hours may include evenings depending on work schedule and need. Must respond to facility alarms which may require coming in to check the facility after hours.

*To see the full job description go to Position Description at the bottom of this posting.

Total Rewards:

Our employees are what make DMU special, so we treat them well! Our Total Rewards reflect this commitment. Qualified faculty and staff enjoy 90% employer-paid medical, 10% retirement match, flexible work arrangements, community service time, tuition assistance, professional development funding, and access to wellness facilities with programs that promote a well-balanced lifestyle. Visit www.dmu.edu/employment to learn more about our benefits.

About:

Founded in 1898, Des Moines University is a premier medical and health sciences institution comprising three colleges- College of Osteopathic Medicine, College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, and College of Health Sciences - offering ten graduate degree programs.

In 2023 Des Moines University (DMU) relocated to a new 88-acre campus in West Des Moines, Iowa. This state-of-the-art campus includes technology-rich, flexible education spaces that support innovative teaching methods and connect faculty and students across all of our programs. Our new research facilities include a vibrant and spacious open laboratory, designed to foster collaboration and innovation.

Required Documents:

Resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references required at time of online submission. Apply at .

Department: Animal Care Facility

Status: Non-Exempt

Work Schedule: Sunday through Thursday 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Pay Rate: Before 7/1/24 $24.90; After 7/1/24 $25.65


Des Moines University is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, ethnicity, creed, religion, age, disability, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, veteran status, genetic information and other characteristics protected by law (“protected class”). Applications from candidates from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.

 

Job Summary
Start Date
As soon as possible
Employment Term and Type
Regular, Full Time
Required Education
High School or Equivalent
Required Experience
Open
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