Cage Wash Technician - Comparative Medicine

Position Summary
Operate and maintain mechanical cage washers and bulk autoclaves in accordance with departmental SOPs to sanitize/sterilize animal caging and related equipment. Sanitize animal research procedure labs and support spaces according to departmental SOPs and in accordance with guidelines of Animal Welfare Act and Public Health Service. Stock feed, bedding, and laboratory supplies including personnel protective equipment. Contribute to the quality animal care program that supports the research and teaching at Washington University.

Job Description

This position requires work on weekends and holidays.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate mechanical cage washers and bulk autoclaves in accordance with departmental SOPs to sanitize/sterilize animal caging and related equipment. Report promptly any equipment problems to supervisor or manager.
• Fill clean animal cages with proper amount and type of bedding and fill clean water bottles.
• Conduct daily, weekly and other periodic maintenance of cage wash equipment including, conducting and logging quality assurance test.
• Observe and support good health and safety practices regarding the use of chemicals and equipment.
• Transport animal cages, large equipment, water bottles, and feed and bedding supplies within the animal facilities.
• Conduct general cleaning and housekeeping of cage wash and service area

Working Conditions

The individual must be able to lift 42 lbs. and pass a pre-employment physical exam. Appropriate vaccinations and hearing protection and other PPE are required through participation in the Occupational Health and Safety Program.

Job Location/Working Conditions

• Requires extensive safety training.
• Stockroom or warehouse.
• Alternative work schedules.
• Exposure to chemicals.
• High noise environment.
• Requires protective devices.
• Dust, dirt, grease or other disagreeable elements.
• Exposure to moving machinery.
• Exposure to animals.

Physical Effort

• Typically standing or walking.
• Typically bending, crouching, stooping.
• Repetitive wrist, hand or finger movement (PC typing).
• Frequent lifting (42 lbs. or more)

Equipment.

• Lab/research equipment.
• Simple hand tools.
• Heavy equipment (buffers, mowers, forklift, etc.).
• Other: Rack washers, tunnel washers, steam autoclaves, water bottle filler stations, pallet jack, etc.

Preferred Qualifications

• After training, ability to properly operate a variety of cleaning, sanitizing equipment including: rack washers, autoclaves, tunnel washers, floor scrubbers etc.
• Conscientious attitude and concern for quality.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent high school certification.
• Must obtain Purina certification within six months of hire.

Grade
R02-H

Salary Range
$15.25 - $19.70 / Hourly

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ .

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected]  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.

• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.

• Want to Live Near Your Work and/or improve your commute? Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees. We also offer a forgivable home loan of up to $12,500 for closing costs and a down payment for homes in eligible neighborhoods.

• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family

• We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.

• WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.