Environmental Enrichment Associate

About the Position:

We are seeking a mid-level associate who can operate both autonomously and with minimal oversight. Collaborating closely with veterinary and behavioral management teams, the enrichment associate is responsible for enhancing the physical and psychological wellbeing of our animal community through daily enrichment activities.

Responsibilities:

• Ensure adherence to environmental enhancement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and document compliance accordingly.
• Assist in training staff members on enrichment SOPs.
• Prepare, distribute, and manage enrichment items for animals.
• Represent the department in meetings when management is unavailable.
• Assist in maintaining colony data (both paper and electronic) as required by regulatory standards and company policies.
• Monitor inventory of enrichment items and communicate ordering needs to management.
• Administer treatments to animals requiring abnormal behavior intervention.
• Contribute to the development, review, and updating of SOPs and forms related to environmental enhancement, behavioral assessment, and socialization.
• Aid in the creation and evaluation of new enrichment items or techniques.
• Assist in standardizing departmental processes and establishing best practices.
• Identify suitable social partners and facilitate animal socializations, such as pairings or groupings.
• Conduct behavioral observations and assessments for individual animals and groups as needed or requested.
• Provide operant conditioning training to animals when necessary.
• Handle and dispose of biological and/or chemical substances and wastes according to established policies and procedures.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Previous experience with animals is advantageous for this entry-level position.
• Proficiency in intermediate math skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication abilities, with the capacity to work independently or collaboratively with diverse personnel.
• Ongoing adherence to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) Training.
• Availability to work flexible hours, including overtime, weekends, and evenings as needed.
• Compliance with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) protocols, including but not limited to N-95 respirators, face masks, safety glasses, goggles, face shields, gloves, lab coats, scrubs, shoe covers, hair bouffants, and arm protectors.