CAGE WASH LEAD

ABOUT US:

Scripps Research is a nonprofit biomedical institute ranked as one of the most influential in the world for its impact on innovation. We are celebrating our 100-year legacy in 2024. This significant milestone marks a century of seminal discoveries in immunology, infectious diseases (such as COVID-19, flu, HIV), neuroscience, heart disease, cancer, and more. Located in La Jolla, California, the institute houses six research departments, multiple Nobel laureates, a top-ranked graduate school and a leading postdoctoral training program. We work hand-in-hand with researchers of the Scripps Research Translational Institute and Calibr to merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs impacting human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

Celebrating a Century: https://100.scripps.edu/

POSITION TITLE: Cage Wash Lead

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Cage Wash Lead is responsible for overseeing the effective sanitation of cages and related equipment, including cage washrooms, feed and bedding rooms, corridors, and other designated areas in multiple facilities. This role will be a subject matter expert, adhere to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality assurance standards, follow and promote safe operating practices, and contribute to development of standards and process improvement. The Cage Wash Lead is expected to proactively communicate to DAR leadership areas of improvement that may be identified during daily activities and participate in quality assurance and standardization activities. They are expected to lead by example and foster teamwork amongst other Cage Wash staff. Additionally, the Cage Wash Lead may assist Supervisors by participating in the animal care and operations program in compliance with the regulations and guidelines set forth by the Animal Welfare Act, the Public Health Service, and institutional policies.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Schedule, train, and monitor staff in cage wash operations, ensuring adherence to safety practices, accurate record-keeping, and timely completion of logs, checklists, and maintenance schedules.
• Oversee and perform sanitation procedures for cages, equipment, cage washrooms, and ancillary areas, including daily start-up and shutdown of cage wash equipment.
• Proactively address equipment issues by engaging with Supervisors, the DAR Equipment team, Facilities, and third-party contractors to ensure timely repairs and maintenance.
• Support animal holding room operations, including daily health checks, enrichment inspections, aseptic sampling, and transporting caging and supplies between areas.
• Receive and store feed, bedding, and supplies, while identifying and resolving process issues and promoting continuous improvements in operations.

REQUIREMENTS:

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) with a minimum of four years of animal care experience or relevant experience.
• Bachelor's degree in a life science, Associate's degree in veterinary technology, or AALAS certification may substitute for total experience required, along with one to three years of animal care experience.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Effective interpersonal relationship skills.
• Demonstrated competency in technical procedures.
• Availability to participate in weekend and holiday rotations (for those not assigned to a designated weekend schedule).

COMPENSATION:

The expected hiring range for this position is $27.50 to $33.00 per hour, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Employer Contributed Retirement Plan - Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) (which is similar to a 401(k) using your own pre or post-tax dollars)
• Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more
• Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care)
• Competitive vacation and sick leave policies
• Free, on-site parking

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.

EEO Statement:
The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status. Underrepresented individuals are encouraged to apply.