Animal Caretaker

Are you passionate about animal care and supporting groundbreaking research? We’re looking for a dedicated Animal Caretaker I to help maintain the health and well-being of a variety of research animals. This role is essential to ensuring high-quality animal care and compliance with research standards.

What You’ll Do:

• Provide daily husbandry for animals, including cleaning enclosures, preparing feed, and monitoring health.
• Safely handle and transport animals ranging from rodents to large livestock.
• Assist with administering medications and collecting biological samples under veterinary supervision.
• Perform basic facility maintenance and operate vehicles and equipment for animal transport and care.
• Maintain accurate records using electronic systems and Microsoft Office tools.

You’ll work closely with veterinary staff, facility managers, and research investigators to support animal health and research needs.

Position Details:

• Term: This is a Full time, 6-month term position with opportunity for renewal.
• Work Schedule: Offering two options: Sunday–Thursday, 6:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m. or Tuesday–Saturday, 6:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
• Application Deadline: We will accept applications until the position is filled. To ensure full consideration, please apply by September 18th.
• In addition to Iowa State University's standard background check, candidates are required to successfully complete additional background checks and pre-employment evaluations required by the USDA.

Benefits at Iowa State University:

As a merit employee, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Retirement Plans with employer contributions
• Paid Time Off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays)
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Discounted access to campus amenities

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with small or large animals.

• Experience safely restraining animals of various sizes.

• Experience cleaning and sanitizing environments, preferably in an animal care setting.

• Experience following established biosafety protocols.

• Experience maintaining accurate records.

About Laboratory Animal Resources (LAR):

LAR provides comprehensive animal care and veterinary services to support Iowa State University’s research community. Our team is committed to the highest standards of animal welfare and regulatory compliance, ensuring that research animals receive exceptional care in a safe and secure environment.