Veterinary Behavior Specialist

2 weeks ago


Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States University of Pittsburgh Full time

Veterinary Behavior Specialist

The selected candidate will function as a Veterinary Behavior Specialist within the Division of Laboratory and Animal Resources (DLAR). This role involves providing crucial veterinary support by collaborating with DLAR veterinarians, managers, and supervisors to enhance the living conditions for various species and ensure the psychological welfare of nonhuman primates, in compliance with relevant regulations, industry standards, and institutional policies.

The ideal applicant must exhibit strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, alongside effective time management and organizational abilities.

Enrollment in the University of Pittsburgh Animal Exposure Surveillance Program and participation in other medical surveillance/immunization programs may be necessary based on current research activities. Vaccinations and/or TB testing could be required.

The successful candidate should be capable of understanding and executing both written and verbal instructions, maintaining precise and clear records, demonstrating excellent interpersonal and customer service skills, and being available for weekend and holiday shifts. Physical requirements include standing for long periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, pushing/pulling heavy equipment, and passing mandatory background checks. Vaccinations and/or TB testing may be required.


Position Overview

This role involves conducting behavioral evaluations on newly acquired and existing nonhuman primates. The position supports the research initiatives by fostering environmental enrichment and psychological health for nonhuman primates and other laboratory animal species, adhering to regulatory mandates.


Key Responsibilities

The employee must be able to:


• Interpret and adhere to DLAR and other institutional guidance documents (SOPs, policies), including IACUC approved animal protocols when necessary.


• Follow both written and verbal directives.


• Possess adequate visual acuity and manual dexterity to identify normal and abnormal species-specific clinical signs and behaviors, safely handle and restrain the animal species involved, and operate and maintain facility equipment and supplies used in veterinary care and animal husbandry.


• Utilize required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as dictated by job responsibilities based on risk assessments from Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S).


• Work directly with live or deceased animals and manage clean or contaminated bedding and caging, with reasonable accommodations if necessary.


• Accurately document information in English in a timely manner, including the use of electronic formats and applications (e.g., PRISM, CAMS).


• Communicate effectively in written and verbal English, including email correspondence.


• Comply with vaccination and health assessment requirements, including TB testing, necessary for working in certain animal holding or procedure areas in accordance with DLAR and/or EH&S policies.


Physical Requirements

The employee must be able to:


• Stand for extended periods throughout the majority of the workday.


• Lift and transport objects weighing up to 50 pounds, including but not limited to cages and equipment, bags or boxes of animal diet and bedding, and operate flatbed hand trucks or pallet jacks for heavier items.


• Perform repetitive tasks involving pushing, pulling, reaching, and/or bending.


• Physically manage and restrain a variety of small and large laboratory animals, navigating around animal facility caging, equipment, and the physical environment.


The University of Pittsburgh is dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a core value of the University and is essential in advancing our mission, which includes attracting and retaining a diverse workforce. We strive to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.


The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity, and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.



Position Type: Full-time regular

Job Classification: Staff.Veterinary Behavior Specialist

Job Family: Research

Job Sub Family: Animal Research

Campus: Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required: High School Diploma/GED

Minimum Years of Experience Required: 1

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience: A combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/or experience requirements.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Some holidays and weekends

Work Arrangement: Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Some holidays and weekends

Hiring Range: TBD Based Upon Qualifications

Relocation Offered: No

Visa Sponsorship Provided: No

Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances: The following PA Act 153 clearances and background checks are required prior to commencement of employment and as a condition of continued employment: PA State Police Criminal Record Check, FBI Criminal Record Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance.

Required Documents: Resume, Cover Letter

Optional Documents: Not Applicable

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