Enrichment Specialist

About the position

The Enrichment Specialist at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is responsible for providing research support and animal husbandry duties, focusing on environmental enrichment for a large colony of research animals. This role requires a dedicated individual to maintain the health and well-being of the animals through various enrichment activities and to work collaboratively with veterinary staff and researchers. The position emphasizes independent work, excellent communication skills, and a strong understanding of species-specific behaviors.

Responsibilities

• Perform research support and animal husbandry duties.
• Provide environmental enrichment to a variety of research animals.
• Conduct room checks and cage changing.
• Maintain animal equipment and document all tasks performed.
• Administer routine animal treatments as directed by veterinary staff.
• Administer special feed and water, including dosing and injections.
• Triage animal care issues and communicate effectively with staff.
• Implement enrichment activities and conduct positive reinforcement training.
• Maintain records and provide written and verbal reports as required.
• Assist in performing literature searches related to animal enrichment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment or equivalent training and experience.
• AALAS Certification at the ALAT level within one year of the role.
• Excellent attention to detail and strong work ethic.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to foster positive relationships with co-workers and researchers.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data entry.

Nice-to-haves

• AALAS certification at higher levels.
• Experience handling, restraining, dosing, and performing health assessments of rabbits, swine, and other USDA species.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid leave
• Professional training opportunities
• Discounts on retail, restaurants, and performing arts
• Savings on local child care centers
• Special rates on select campus events