This competition is open to all applicants however; internal candidates and applicants who were former employees of the University of Alberta will be given priority consideration before external candidates. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status.
This position is a part of the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).
This position offers a comprehensive benefits package.
Location - This role is in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.
The University of Alberta’s Animal Care and Use Program, under the direction of the University Veterinarian, in the Vice President Research and Integrity (VPRI) office, is responsible for providing support to the animal-based research and teaching community associated with the University of Alberta and its affiliates through its veterinary services team, Research Integrity Support compliance team, and its animal facilities. The University of Alberta is committed to providing excellence in support to all UA faculty, staff and trainees with accountability, communication, cooperation, customer service and integrity.
The North Campus Animal Services (NCAS) is composed of three operationally consolidated animal facilities, namely, the Health Sciences Facility, the Biosciences Facility and services to Alternate Animal Housing sites, encompassing over 100,000 square feet (~9200 sqm) on the University’s North Campus. NCAS supports over 150 Principal Investigator groups.
The Animal Care Technician plays a vital role within the animal operations of the North Campus Animal Services facilities. Reporting directly to the Team Lead Animal Care and Research Support (TLAC), the technician ensures the proper care, housing, and welfare of laboratory animals in accordance with university standards, established protocols, and ethical guidelines. This position provides continuous, 365 day-year-round coverage and care within the facility, to maintain the health and welfare of animals. This role is fundamental to supporting the research community by maintaining a safe, clean, and regulated environment for animals used in research, teaching and testing at the University of Alberta.
The technician's primary responsibilities include performing the daily animal husbandry tasks such as feeding, cage cleaning, and environmental enrichment, while also monitoring the health and welfare of the animals. In instances of health concerns, the technician collaborates with veterinarians, researchers, and other team members to address issues promptly. The position also requires assisting researchers with technical procedures, maintaining detailed health and procedural records, and ensuring adherence to strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
As part of the NCAS team, the Animal Care Technician demonstrates a commitment to animal welfare, regulatory compliance, and effective communication with supervisors, researchers, and colleagues. This role demands technical expertise and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a physically demanding environment that often involves repetitive motions, exposure to allergens and other challenges associated with animal care facilities.