Animal Research Assistant

We are actively hiring for an Animal Research Assistant that will focus on assisting the team by performing cage maintenance and cleaning duties. This is an entry-level role, but will have opportunity to grow into more hands on animal research positions in the future depending on educational background.

An ideal candidate will have a Bachelors Degree in an animal science, zoology, or similar field, but we are open to candidates with other backgrounds as long as you have experience working with animals hands on.

Job Description

You will be responsible for cleaning and sterilizing cages and cage accessories using mechanical washers and autoclaves. You will ensure a steady supply of cages and accessories in line with the cage-change schedule and user demands. Your role includes routine preventative maintenance of equipment such as washers, autoclaves, and automatic watering units. Maintaining daily cleanliness and biosecurity in the cage wash area is crucial to minimize cross-contamination. You will also assist in inventory management, equipment transportation, and pest control duties.

Responsibilities

• Comprehend and adhere to standard operating procedures and guidelines to ensure safety and biosecurity in the cage wash area.
• Wear personal protective equipment as stipulated.
• Maintain all relevant training and certifications required by the institution.
• Process cages and accessories using mechanical washers and autoclaves, ensuring proper sanitation using temperature-sensitive indicators.
• Operate rack washers and autoclaves to sanitize and sterilize animal cages, racks, and related equipment.
• Deliver cages and cage accessories to and from animal holding areas.
• Maintain inventory in the clean/sterile side of the cage wash and animal feed rooms.
• Perform preventive maintenance on washers, autoclaves, racks, automatic watering systems, and other caging equipment.
• Ensure cleanliness in the cage wash area daily, including cleaning and sanitizing floors, walls, and equipment.
• Prepare and use disinfecting and sanitizing solutions.
• Stay familiar with vivarium emergency response procedures.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma required
• Associates or Bachelors in Animal Science is strongly preferred
• Experience working with animals and/or cleaning their enclosures/

Work Environment

The work schedule is Monday to Thursday, from 6:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The position is within a large animal research core, offering significant opportunities for long-term growth.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Columbus, OH.

Pay And Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $18.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Columbus,OH. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Mar 26, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.