Job Summary:

In accordance with the Mission, Vision, Values and strategic direction of PHSA, safety, including both patient and employee safety, is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone at PHSA. As such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

The Research Technician 2, Animal Resource Centre (ARC) reports to the Operations Manager and/or designate, performs basic first aid, treatments and colony management duties on laboratory mice with a high degree of attention to detail and time management skills and in accordance with Containment Level 2 Barrier for immunocompromised mice. The role supports ARC Management, Support, Coordinators, Research Technicians, and Users and maintains laboratory records using programs similar to Mosaic and Vivarium Management software to ensure efficient and timely animal care and service.  

The Research Technician 2 performs duties in a sterile research laboratory environment, supervises Research Technician 1 as required, and draws from mid-level animal research environment and/or animal care experience. The role adheres to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and governing body policies and guidelines set forth by the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC), UBC Animal Care and Use Program (UBC ACUP), BC Cancer Research Institute Safety, and Standards Council of Canada (SCC), and ARC SOPs.

Duties/Accountabilities:

1.    Performs basic first aid including administration of topical and ophthalmic ointment, SC fluids and non-controlled analgesics, toenail and teeth trims, heat support, or other, as instructed by management and/or researcher.
2.    Performs basic treatments by providing environmental enrichment, dietary supplements and medicated water, as scheduled and approved by management and/or laboratory coordinators.
3.    Performs basic colony management duties such as preparing and retiring breeding pairs, weaning and sexing pups and monitoring colony productivity.
4.    Maintains laboratory records.
5.    Receives, labels, delivers and stores animal orders as required.
6.    Reports equipment issues to the Operations Manager or designate, and performs SOPs troubleshooting tasks.
7.    Performs general housekeeping and maintenance of laboratory area and equipment.
8.    Assists senior team and performs Research Technician 1 duties as required.
9.    Performs other tasks as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education, Training and Experience

•    Successful completion of a recognized Veterinary Technology program, or grade 12, completion of animal biology or anatomy courses plus two year’s recent related laboratory experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Skills and Abilities

•    Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
•    Ability to deal with others effectively.
•    Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position.
•    Ability to supervise.
•    Ability to organize work.  
•    Ability to operate related equipment.

** Please note: Support for nomination with the BC Provincial Nominee Program is not a guarantee, entitlement or an employee benefit upon receiving a full time job offer with PHSA**