Animal Caregiver
Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
The University of Virginia seeks applicants for multiple Animal Caregiver opportunities within the Center for Comparative Medicine (CCM). The Animal Caregiver role is essential to maintaining the health and well-being of research animals through dedicated husbandry and facility care.
As an Animal Caregiver, you’ll be part of a hands‑on, task‑focused team responsible for daily animal care, sanitation, and facility maintenance. The work environment involves regular interaction with animals and their housing areas, which may include natural environmental conditions. Team members are also expected to limit personal phone use during shifts to maintain focus and provide consistent, high‑quality care.
This position is ideal for individuals who are reliable, detail‑oriented, and committed to animal welfare. No prior experience is required – comprehensive training is provided. CCM also offers opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the animal care and research support fields.
Responsibilities and Duties
Perform daily animal husbandry tasks, including feeding, watering, and monitoring animal health.
Maintain cleanliness and sanitation throughout the facility, including cage‑washing, sterilization, and general upkeep.
Follow all policies and procedures to ensure compliance and safety.
Collaborate with veterinary and research staff and follow detailed instructions under direct supervision.
Work a rotating schedule that includes weekdays, weekends, and holidays to ensure consistent care.
Other duties may be assigned by your supervisor.
Minimum Requirements
High School Diploma or equivalent.
Vaccination: A pre-employment health screening is required to be cleared before starting in the position. This position requires compliance with UVA Health OCH-002 policy.
Preferred Requirements
Preference will be given to applicants with lab or animal handling experience and those with an Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Certificate (ALAT).
Strong attention to detail.
Verbal and written communication skills.
Physical Demands
Up to 25% of time: Kneeling, Squatting, Bending, Stooping, Twisting, Lifting Above & Below Waist, Light & Moderate Lifting – Up to 40 lbs., Carrying, Pushing & Pulling, Climbing Ladders & Stairs, Fine Finger Manipulation (Keyboarding, Pipefitting, Bench Work, Etc.).
26-50% of time: Traveling & Repetitive Motion.
51-75% of time: Standing for sustained periods of time, Use of Both Hands, Independent Use of Either Hand, Wrist Movement (Twisting or Rotating).
Protective Clothing/Equipment: Disposable Gloves, Protective Clothing, Surgical Mask, Ear Protection (including earplugs). Hearing protection is required when working with dogs, swine or in cage wash area.
Sensory Requirements: Vision (with and without corrective lenses), Depth Perception, Color Vision, Peripheral Vision, Near Vision, Hearing, Speaking.
Starting Compensation: $17.00/ hour; commensurate with education and experience. This is a non-exempt-level, benefited position. This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on‑site.
Background checks and pre-employment health screening will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment. This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship at this time or in the future.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
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As an Animal Caregiver, you’ll be part of a hands‑on, task‑focused team responsible for daily animal care, sanitation, and facility maintenance. The work environment involves regular interaction with animals and their housing areas, which may include natural environmental conditions. Team members are also expected to limit personal phone use during shifts to maintain focus and provide consistent, high‑quality care.
This position is ideal for individuals who are reliable, detail‑oriented, and committed to animal welfare. No prior experience is required – comprehensive training is provided. CCM also offers opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the animal care and research support fields.
Responsibilities and Duties
Perform daily animal husbandry tasks, including feeding, watering, and monitoring animal health.
Maintain cleanliness and sanitation throughout the facility, including cage‑washing, sterilization, and general upkeep.
Follow all policies and procedures to ensure compliance and safety.
Collaborate with veterinary and research staff and follow detailed instructions under direct supervision.
Work a rotating schedule that includes weekdays, weekends, and holidays to ensure consistent care.
Other duties may be assigned by your supervisor.
Minimum Requirements
High School Diploma or equivalent.
Vaccination: A pre-employment health screening is required to be cleared before starting in the position. This position requires compliance with UVA Health OCH-002 policy.
Preferred Requirements
Preference will be given to applicants with lab or animal handling experience and those with an Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Certificate (ALAT).
Strong attention to detail.
Verbal and written communication skills.
Physical Demands
Up to 25% of time: Kneeling, Squatting, Bending, Stooping, Twisting, Lifting Above & Below Waist, Light & Moderate Lifting – Up to 40 lbs., Carrying, Pushing & Pulling, Climbing Ladders & Stairs, Fine Finger Manipulation (Keyboarding, Pipefitting, Bench Work, Etc.).
26-50% of time: Traveling & Repetitive Motion.
51-75% of time: Standing for sustained periods of time, Use of Both Hands, Independent Use of Either Hand, Wrist Movement (Twisting or Rotating).
Protective Clothing/Equipment: Disposable Gloves, Protective Clothing, Surgical Mask, Ear Protection (including earplugs). Hearing protection is required when working with dogs, swine or in cage wash area.
Sensory Requirements: Vision (with and without corrective lenses), Depth Perception, Color Vision, Peripheral Vision, Near Vision, Hearing, Speaking.
Starting Compensation: $17.00/ hour; commensurate with education and experience. This is a non-exempt-level, benefited position. This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on‑site.
Background checks and pre-employment health screening will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment. This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship at this time or in the future.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
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