Animal Caretaker II – Full-Time

About the role

The Animal Caretaker II provides daily care, observation, and maintenance for laboratory animals at Texas A&M University Health Science Center in Houston. This full‑time position ensures animal welfare, maintains clean facilities, and supports research staff with animal handling and logistics.

Key responsibilities

• Clean animal cages and feeding equipment; replace soiled bedding and provide fresh diet and water.
• Prepare and dispense animal food according to established schedules.
• Operate large cage‑washing machines, high‑pressure cleaners, floor scrubbers, and wet/dry vacuums.
• Collect, clean, and sterilize instruments using autoclaves and chemical sterilants.
• Maintain sanitation and disease‑prevention standards, applying sterile techniques and high‑level disinfectants.
• Handle and restrain animals for research procedures.
• Transport animals, bulk feed, and bedding; assist with receiving and storing large supply shipments.

Required profile

• High school diploma or GED (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• At least two years of experience in animal care.
• Preferred: AALAS certification and experience in a higher‑education or research institute.

Required skills

• Operation of cage‑washing machines, high‑pressure cleaners, floor scrubbers, and wet/dry vacuums.
• Autoclave and chemical sterilant use.
• Application of sterile techniques and disease‑prevention procedures.
• Animal handling, restraint, and transportation.
• Inventory handling for feed and bedding supplies.

What we offer

• Hourly wage of $20.71.
• Full‑time schedule with rotational holiday and weekend shifts.
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, prescription drug, life and AD&D insurance, and flexible spending accounts.