Animal Caretaker

HHMI is focused on supporting and moving science forward in a variety of different ways ranging from conducting basic biomedical research, empowering educators, inspiring students, developing the next generation of scientists - even stretching into film and media production. Our Headquarters is in the greater Washington, DC metro area and is home to over 300 employees with expertise in investments, communications, digital production, biomedical sciences, and everything in between. The work housed here supports and augments the groundbreaking research conducted in HHMI labs across the nation. As HHMI scientists continue to push boundaries in laboratories and classrooms, you can be sure that your contributions while working here are making a difference.

Please note: The physical location for this job is upstate in Millbrook, NY, not New York City.

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we're unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, bright future for science.

We are seeking a dependable and detail-oriented Animal Caretaker to join the lab team of Dr. Erich Jarvis on-site at the Rockefeller University Field Center Laboratory in Millbrook, New York. The Jarvis lab investigates the neurogenomics of complex traits, with a specific focus on vocal learning and spoken language. The Rockefeller University Field Center Laboratory is focused on neuroethology of wild animals and avian transgenics. The team strives for excellence as a model and strategy toward achieving ambitious goals in science and the culture of science. More information about the Jarvis lab and their work can be found at https://www.jarvislab.net/.

About the Animal Caretaker role:

As the Animal Caretaker, you will perform day-to-day duties to help maintain a safe, clean, and organized environment for the lab's colony of transgenic songbirds. This role requires someone who is highly dependable, and punctual, with the ability to consistently follow through on responsibilities without supervision. The care and wellbeing of the animals-and the smooth functioning of the lab-depend on someone who is reliable and takes ownership of their work.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. You will be contacted by a member of our Recruitment team if your skills and experience appear to be a match when a role opens.

What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits

• Hands-on training and the opportunity for mentorship

• Working as part of a close-knit, dedicated field lab team within the vibrant Rockefeller University research community

• Attending open lab meetings for scientific learning and self-development

• Access to the Field Center Laboratory's outdoor walking trails

What you'll do:

• Alongside other team members, manage the bird colony including health checks, monitoring and handling zebra finches, parakeets and pigeons (feeding, breeding, collecting specimens, and other animal husbandry-related tasks)

• Prepare feed for the bird colony

• Administer topical and oral medications

• Clean bird cages and equipment on a regular basis

• Assist with maintaining general lab organization and cleanliness

• Other duties as assigned

What you bring:

• High school diploma or GED is required.

• Demonstrated reliability and follow-through in past roles is essential-this position requires someone who shows up consistently, meets deadlines, and communicates proactively.

• A valid New York driver's license is required, along with a willingness to drive in various weather conditions

• Ability to move and lift up to 30 pounds is required

• Comfort and willingness to work with live birds on a daily basis is required

• Flexibility to work one weekend day per week and some holidays as needed

• At least one year of working with animals is preferred; experience with birds is a plus

• Strong organizational, time management, and multitasking skills

• Ability to work independently and stay focused during routine tasks

• Excellent oral and written communication skills

• A respectful and collaborative attitude when working with team members from a variety of backgrounds and experience levels.

Physical Requirements:

• Routinely lifts and/or carries objects weighing up to 60 pounds.

• Exposed regularly to some unpleasant conditions such as long periods of standing or stooping, bites and other physical injuries associated with handling animals and disagreeable animal odors. May come into contact with animals which harbor diseases that can be transmitted to humans.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Compensation Range:

Animal Caretaker - $18.52 (minimum) - $23.17 (midpoint) - $30.13 (maximum)

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer