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Position Title:
Animal CaretakerJob Group:
MeritRequired Minimum Qualifications:
• Ability to read, write, and follow instructions. • Possession of a valid state or commercial driver's license, as required.Job Description:
Are you passionate about animal care and supporting groundbreaking research? We’re looking for a dedicated Animal Caretaker I to help maintain the health and well-being of a variety of research animals. This role is essential to ensuring high-quality animal care and compliance with research standards.
What You’ll Do:
- Provide daily husbandry for animals, including cleaning enclosures, preparing feed, and monitoring health.
- Safely handle and transport animals ranging from rodents to large livestock.
- Assist with administering medications and collecting biological samples under veterinary supervision.
- Perform basic facility maintenance and operate vehicles and equipment for animal transport and care.
- Maintain accurate records using electronic systems and Microsoft Office tools.
You’ll work closely with veterinary staff, facility managers, and research investigators to support animal health and research needs.
Position Details:
- Term: This is a Full time, 6-month term position with opportunity for renewal.
- Work Schedule: Offering two options: Sunday–Thursday, 6:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m. or Tuesday–Saturday, 6:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
- Application Deadline: We will accept applications until the position is filled. To ensure full consideration, please apply by September 18th.
- In addition to Iowa State University's standard background check, candidates are required to successfully complete additional background checks and pre-employment evaluations required by the USDA.
Benefits at Iowa State University:
As a merit employee, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Retirement Plans with employer contributions
- Paid Time Off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays)
- Life and Disability Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
- Professional Development Opportunities
- Discounted access to campus amenities
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience working with small or large animals.
Experience safely restraining animals of various sizes.
Experience cleaning and sanitizing environments, preferably in an animal care setting.
Experience following established biosafety protocols.
Experience maintaining accurate records.
About Laboratory Animal Resources (LAR):
LAR provides comprehensive animal care and veterinary services to support Iowa State University’s research community. Our team is committed to the highest standards of animal welfare and regulatory compliance, ensuring that research animals receive exceptional care in a safe and secure environment.
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
Appointment Type:
Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)Proposed End Date or Length of Term:
May 1, 2027Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:
Full timePay Grade:
7611aOriginal Posting Date:
September 2, 2026Posting Close Date:
September 22, 2026Job Requisition Number:
R19905Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.
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General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.
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