Vivarium Specialist I/II

Massachusetts General Hospital
United States, Massachusetts, Cambridge
600 Main Street (Show on map)
May 11, 2026
Assists in the daily operation of the Animal Facility, in feeding of and caring for animals used in experiments. Does this position require Patient Care? No Essential Functions -Consistently implements sterile techniques using a barrier microisolator cage system. -Tracks animal health and notify supervisors and animal care staff of observations. -Keeps records of animal mortalities. -Maintains records such as animal inventory, Animal Husbandry, and Room Maintenance Records for each assigned room. -Reports all facility and environmental issues to the animal technician supervisor. -Attends staff and educational meetings as scheduled by supervisory staff. Education High School Diploma or Equivalent required Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree? Yes Licenses and Credentials Experience Previous experience with Animals 0-1 year preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities - Detail-oriented. - Multitasking skills. - Long periods of standing and/or moving. - Good communications skills in English, both oral and written The Ragon Institute is a highly unique, innovative, and collaborative research center at the forefront of biomedical science. Founded by Massachusetts General Hospital, MIT, and Harvard, the Ragon vision is a bold one: to harness the power of the immune system to prevent and cure human disease on a global scale. This vision is pursued and advanced every day by a group of highly motivated individuals. The Ragon Institute, at every level, depends upon collaboration, compassion, dedication, and innovation. It is a results-oriented organization that seeks people who not only embrace these values but who thrive in teams and want to work in a dynamic environment. The Ragon Institute is seeking a skilled individual for a Vivarium Specialist position in the newly opening building of the Ragon Institute. The Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT, and Harvard is a located in the heart of Technology Square in Cambridge. The vivarium is a brand new, state of the art facility. Under the supervision of the Vivarium Manager (or Supervisor), the Vivarium Specialist is responsible for the sanitation and sterilization of animal caging systems that are required to maintain a high-level animal research program. Duties include: disassembling and emptying dirty cages, loading cage components into cage wash machines with and without automation, unloading cage wash machine, loading and unloading sterilizers, reassembling cage components, disinfection of animal-related supplies prior to use, general cleaning and maintenance of cage wash machines and sterilizers, general cleaning and maintenance of cage wash area; other duties as assigned by the supervisor. The ability to perform all duties while strictly adhering to established SOPs and in compliance with local, state, federal and institutional guidelines and regulations is a requirement. Computer skills are required for computerized management of cage wash machinery in addition to record keeping in accordance with established procedures. Can perform day to day preventative cleaning and maintenance on all equipment including automation. WORKING CONDITIONS: The ability to work directly with animals (including mice and rats), with no preexisting allergies to animals, hair, dander, or biproducts that would affect ability to work with these animals. Must be able to perform in this environment with exposure to these potential allergens for prolonged periods of time. Must be able to walk or stand for a full 8 hour shift. The ability to lift 50 lbs., push or pull up to 100 lbs., and perform other physical tasks. Must be willing to be fit tested and wear a N95 mask (by being clean shaven for proper and necessary fit) or alternatively, if necessary, a PAPR (Powered Air Purifying Respirator) as required. Ability to work in Biosafety levels up to BSL-3 Ability to work with biological and chemical hazards May occasionally need to report to work in the event of a disaster, or weather-related event, if necessary This position is considered essential. May be required to work on weekends, holidays, and off hours. The General Hospital Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.