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The Animal Attendant provides care for animals and maintains associated facilities within the [Department of Comparative Medicine](https://www.mdanderson.org/research/departments-labs-institutes/programs-centers/michale-e-keeling-center-for-comparative-medicine-and-research.html). This Animal Attendant will primarily support the Rhesus and Baboon area(s) and may assist in other animal areas as needed. Responsibilities include working weekends and holidays on a scheduled, rotating basis, and occasional overtime as authorized. The role may involve working in biocontainment areas requiring strict compliance with protocols.

The ideal candidate is reliable, detail-oriented, strong communication skills and committed to animal care. They have a high school diploma (or equivalent) and preferably experience working with animals. They follow strict safety and compliance protocols, perform daily husbandry tasks, monitor animal health, and maintain accurate records. Strong teamwork and adherence to SOPs are essential.

The typical work schedule is Monday-Friday with occasional weekends, 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., onsite.

Hourly breakdown of salary range: Minimum $18.00 - Midpoint $20.54 - Maximum $23.08

What's in it for you:

• Employer-paid medical coverage starting day one for employees working 30+ hours/week, plus optional group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance.

• Accruals for Paid Time Off (PTO) and Extended Illness Bank (EIB), plus paid holidays, wellness, childcare, and other leave options.

• Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service and access to extensive wellness, fitness, and employee resource groups.

• Defined-benefit pension through the Teachers Retirement System, voluntary retirement plans, and employer-paid life and reduced salary protection programs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform daily animal husbandry, including feeding, enrichment, waste disposal, and cage sanitation.

• Inspect water systems, animal areas, and equipment; report issues promptly.

• Conduct animal health and behavioral observations; assist with infant care as needed.

• Adhere to PPE requirements and safety protocols in proximity to animals.

• Maintain accurate records and documentation in compliance with AAALAC, IACUC, USDA/AWA, and GLP standards.

• Participate in SOP training and follow departmental policies.

• Assist with animal transport and emergency response when required.

• Perform housekeeping tasks and restock supplies.

• Other duties as assigned.

Adheres to PPE requirements.

Works safely in close proximity to animals.

Ensures appropriate animal access to shelter, food, water and distance from other groups. Ensures proper cage and building lock procedures are followed.

Responsible for animal identification as required by area.

May need to respond in emergency situations.

Participates in SOP training and consistently follows SOPs and departmental policies. Responsible for adhering to AAALAC and IACUC standards and USDA/AWA regulations.

Provides timely and accurate documentation and recordkeeping of husbandry and healthcare data (including GLP).

Conducts animal health and behavioral observations. Reports changes in animal behavior and appearance to Supervisor.

May assist with infant care.

Performs daily husbandry and disposal of waste materials.

Operates cage sanitation equipment.

Prepares and distributes daily diet/enrichment.

May assist in transporting animals which may require specialized training or handling techniques.

Inspects lixit valves and water lines daily to ensure proper function.

Inspects assigned animal areas and maintain rooms, buildings, facilities, and equipment (including enrichment). Reports issues to Supervisor or Team Leader.

Performs basic housekeeping and restocks supplies.

*EDUCATION*

• Required: High School Diploma or Equivalent.

*EXPERIENCE*

• Preferred: Some experience working with animals.

*LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS*

• Preferred: Must meet department American Association of Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) certification requirements.

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent [benefits](https://www.utsystem.edu/offices/employee-benefits/insurance-0/eligibility), including medical, dental, [paid time off](https://www.mdanderson.org/about-md-anderson/employee-resources/leave.html), [retirement](https://www.utsystem.edu/offices/employee-benefits/ut-retirement-program/voluntary-retirement-programs), tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and individual and team recognition.

This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined in Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code and therefore may require routine reviews and screening. The ability to satisfy and maintain all requirements necessary to ensure the continued security and integrity of such infrastructure is a condition of hire and continued employment.

It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state, or local laws unless such distinction is required by law.[http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html](http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html)

Additional Information

* Requisition ID: 178407

* Employment Status: Full-Time

* Employee Status: Regular

* Work Week: Days

* Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 37,450

* Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 42,725

* Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 48,000

* FLSA: non-exempt and eligible for overtime pay

* Fund Type: Soft

* Work Location: Onsite

* Pivotal Position: No

* Referral Bonus Available?: No

* Relocation Assistance Available?: No

\#LI-Onsite