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Animal Attendant
Summary
The Animal Attendant provides care for animals and maintains associated facilities within the Department of Comparative Medicine. This position primarily supports the Rhesus and Baboon area(s) and may assist in other animal areas as needed. Responsibilities include working weekends and holidays on a scheduled, rotating basis, and occasional overtime as authorized. The role may involve working in biocontainment areas requiring strict compliance with protocols.
The ideal candidate is reliable, detail-oriented, strong communication skills and committed to animal care. They have a high school diploma (or equivalent) and preferably experience working with animals. They follow strict safety and compliance protocols, perform daily husbandry tasks, monitor animal health, and maintain accurate records. Strong teamwork and adherence to SOPs are essential.
The typical work schedule is Monday-Friday with occasional weekends, 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., onsite.
Hourly breakdown of salary range: Minimum $18.00 - Midpoint $20.54 - Maximum $23.08
What's in it for you:
• Employer-paid medical coverage starting day one for employees working 30+ hours/week, plus optional group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance.
• Accruals for Paid Time Off (PTO) and Extended Illness Bank (EIB), plus paid holidays, wellness, childcare, and other leave options.
• Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service and access to extensive wellness, fitness, and employee resource groups.
• Defined-benefit pension through the Teachers Retirement System, voluntary retirement plans, and employer-paid life and reduced salary protection programs.
Key Responsibilities:
• Perform daily animal husbandry, including feeding, enrichment, waste disposal, and cage sanitation.
• Inspect water systems, animal areas, and equipment; report issues promptly.
• Conduct animal health and behavioral observations; assist with infant care as needed.
• Adhere to PPE requirements and safety protocols in proximity to animals.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation in compliance with AAALAC, IACUC, USDA/AWA, and GLP standards.
• Participate in SOP training and follow departmental policies.
• Assist with animal transport and emergency response when required.
• Perform housekeeping tasks and restock supplies.
• Other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION
• Required: High School Diploma or Equivalent.
EXPERIENCE
• Preferred: Some experience working with animals.
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Preferred: Must meet department American Association of Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) certification requirements.
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and individual and team recognition.
This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined in Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code and therefore may require routine reviews and screening. The ability to satisfy and maintain all requirements necessary to ensure the continued security and integrity of such infrastructure is a condition of hire and continued employment.
It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state, or local laws unless such distinction is required by law.http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html
