Primate Behavioral Management Technician III

Performs a variety of tasks related to the implementation and maintenance of the behavioral management program for nonhuman primates and other laboratory animal species as directed by the Behavioral Management Program Manager. Task include but are not limited to:

• Determines potential nonhuman primate social partners, completes social introductions, monitors progress and makes decisions about outcomes of introductions.

• Serves as a resource for particular aspects of behavioral management.

• Responsible for the scheduling, implementation, and record-keeping for animal training programs.

• Performs positive reinforcement training.

• Responsible for ordering supplies needed for behavioral management program

• Oversees and performs technical duties, such as preparation, maintenance and distribution of enrichment materials, devices and equipment.

• Identifies animals that are in need to specialized intervention for observed behavioral problems.

• Collects observational data for behavioral studies.

May be designated as essential personnel during a storm/natural disaster. If required to work during a closure, employee must provide accurate and current contact information and is responsible for maintaining communication with TNPRC. Failure to report to work when requested by supervisor or manager will result in disciplinary action as outlined by the Staff Handbook.

Failure to meet established performance standards in the performance of the job duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description (or as otherwise assigned); and/or failure to interact courteously and tactfully with managers, co-workers, customers and/or vendors such that productivity or departmental morale suffers will result in management's taking the appropriate disciplinary action as outlined in the Staff Handbook. Employee attendance must meet established work schedules. Faithfulness in coming to work, being on time, planning absences in advance when possible, and calling in when unavoidably detained from reporting for work is an essential requirement of the job.

• Proven ability to follow oral and written instructions.

• Ability to lift items weighing up to 45 lbs

• Must have basic computer skills

• Must have the ability to work with non-human primates and other laboratory animal species without jeopardizing the health of said non-human primates and other laboratory animal species.

• The TNPRC maintains biosafety level 3 facilities and performs work on diverse infectious agents many of which can cause serious disease in humans if standard operating procedures, including use of appropriate personal protective equipment, are not followed. Depending on agent specific risk assessments individuals may be offered, or in some cases required to have vaccinations against the relevant agents.

• If this position is assigned to work in Biosafety Level 3 containment areas there will be additional minimum requirements, including some or all of the following:

• Must pass a US Department of Justice Security Risk Assessment for access to select biological agents and toxins.

• Must have the ability to perform job duties while wearing respiratory protection

• Must participate in drug and alcohol program and be in compliance with TNPRC drug and alcohol policy

• Bachelor's Degree with a background in behavioral sciences and four (4) years of experience in laboratory animal care OR six (6) years of experience in laboratory animal care plus certification as an AALAS LAT OR eight (8) years of experience in laboratory animal care

• Specific precautions against and/or be immunized against potentially hazardous agents are required.

• Experience working with non-human primates

• Experience working in an enrichment or behavioral management program