Animal Facility Manager

$70,000 - $85,000/Yr

The Mcconnell Group - Orient, NY

Full-time - Mid Level

Orient, NY

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Animal Facility Manager at The McConnell Group is responsible for overseeing the care and management of large animals at the Plum Island Animal Disease Center. This role supports the Department of Homeland Security's Research and Development Program for vaccine studies, ensuring compliance with animal welfare regulations and providing leadership to the animal care team. The position requires a strong commitment to animal care, staff management, and adherence to established protocols.

Responsibilities

• Ensure that animals are cared for and maintained in accordance with the Animal Welfare Regulations and other relevant policies.
• Supervise and direct daily activities of employees, including Animal Care Technicians and Animal Health Technicians.
• Provide support to meet principal investigator's research and husbandry needs.
• Ensure adequate staff coverage for weekends, holidays, and emergencies, including being available by phone after hours.
• Implement and track staff training, maintain thorough training records, and promote AALAS certification.
• Address HR-related concerns and implement performance improvement plans and team-building activities.
• Develop and maintain a thorough understanding of facility Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and ensure adherence to quality assurance guidelines.
• Report any abnormal conditions of the animals or facility to appropriate personnel.
• Assist in preparing for periodic facility inspections and provide necessary documentation.
• Assist with staff recruiting and retention strategies.

Requirements

• BA or BS in Animal Science or related science required or 8 years of laboratory animal experience.
• 5 years of experience in a laboratory animal facility, with 3 years in facility management.
• Fundamental knowledge of animal research facility operations and species-specific requirements.
• Ability to manage and supervise multiple and complex labor categories.
• Must have training experience and proficiency in MS Office products.
• Must have a proficient technical vocabulary.

Nice-to-haves

• AALAS LATG or Certified Manager of Animal Resources (CMAR) certification (preferred within 12 months of hire).

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance