Laboratory Animal Caretaker Jobs in Missouri

Hiring Department

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery

Job Description

The School of Medicine – Department of Orthopaedic Surgery is seeking a highly motivated, engaged, and committed Senior Research Lab Technician who is interested in joining a fast-paced, highly productive team.

We are seeking a dedicated, detail-oriented team member to support our animal model research program. This role combines hands-on animal care, technical research procedures, equipment maintenance, and coordination of student assistants. Preference will be given to candidates with veterinary technician training or prior experience working with animals in a clinical or research setting.

Key attributes that we look for in our team members:

1. Strong communication
2. Teamwork
3. Detail oriented
4. Time Management
5. Record-keeping skills
6. Able to take instructions well and implement with minimal supervision (once trained)
7. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs

Position Overview:

This position will assist with the following:

Animal Care & Handling:

• Perform monthly dog health checks, including nail trims
• Assist with dog walking and enrichment activities as needed
• Provide post-operative care for research animals, including:
• Daily health checks
• Medication administration and treatments
• Bandage changes

Research Procedure Support:

• Assist with all aspects of animal model research days, including:
• Room and equipment setup
• Blood draws, urine collection, and synovial fluid retrieval
• Radiographs, ultrasound, MRI, and gait analysis (GaitRite)
• Clinical assessments
• Surgical assistance
• Process, log, and store biological specimens
• Transfer and organize radiographs and arthroscopic images into study folders on the main lab drive

Laboratory & Equipment Maintenance:

• Sterilize supplies and instruments
• Maintain laboratory and research equipment
• Prepare decal solution for tissue processing and change solutions three times weekly when needed
• Drop off and pick up histopathology samples for the veterinary pathologist

Supply & Facility Management:

• Order supplies through Central Supply
• Conduct monthly inventory of surgical supplies and equipment
• Maintain weekly organization and cleanliness of the storage room at animal facilities (trash removal, laundry, restocking)
• Transport supplies and equipment between the lab and animal facilities
• General cleaning duties as needed

Student Coordination & Training:

• Schedule and coordinate student assistants for project days
• Train students on proper study techniques and procedures
• Supervise students during animal model research days

Shift

Typically, 8:00am – 3:00pm, Monday through Friday with the ability to be flexible when needs arise with occasional weekends.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

Anticipated Hiring Range

Salary Range: $15.00 - $25.84 hourly
Grade: GGS - 006
University Title: RESEARCH/LAB TECHNICIAN SR

Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Application Materials

In addition to the Online Application, please provide a Resume/CV.

Benefit Eligibility

This position is not eligible for University benefits. Individuals in non benefit eligible positions may choose to participate in the Tax Deferred Annuity Plan (403b). For information about this plan, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.