Behavioral Specialist
Altasciences
Summary
This is an advanced level position and works under minimal supervision. This position will provide staff training. The Behavioral Specialist performs various duties to facilitate and support the work and research of the Veterinarians, Study Directors, and clients by completing a variety of animal behavior activities in the areas of enrichment, socialization, and behavioral assessments. As a team, the behavioral staff is responsible for the treatment of all on-site behavioral abnormalities present in animals and for the fulfillment of the preventive program.
Job description
About the Role
This is an advanced level position and works under minimal supervision. This position will provide staff training. The Behavioral Specialist performs various duties to facilitate and support the work and research of the Veterinarians, Study Directors, and clients by completing a variety of animal behavior activities in the areas of enrichment, socialization, and behavioral assessments. As a team, the behavioral staff is responsible for the treatment of all on-site behavioral abnormalities present in animals and for the fulfillment of the preventive program.
What You'll Do Here
- Maintains databases and program descriptions to meet USDA requirements.
- Cooperate with study staff to enhance study procedures through socialization, enrichment, and training.
- Documents compliance with environmental enhancement standard operating procedures (SOP).
- Assists with training of staff on enrichment, behavioral, and socialization SOPs.
- Prepares, distributes, and maintains enrichment items for animals.
- Oversees socialization program, including determination of suitable social partners and performs animal socializations (i.e. pairs or groups) and completes related documentation.
- Assists with colony data (paper and electronic) as per USDA requirements and company policies.
- May attend and participate in company, association, and client meetings.
- Procurement, replacement, and inventory of enrichment devices and treats.
- Performs behavioral observations/assessments.
- Provides behavioral treatments per individual treatment plans.
- Provides operant conditioning training to animals when necessary.
- Ensure safe implementation, documentation, and management of the environmental enhancement program, depending on site.
- Assists with developing, reviewing, and revising environmental enrichment, behavioral assessment, and socialization SOPs and forms.
- Assists with developing and evaluating new enrichment items or methods.
What You Need to Succeed
- High School Diploma or GED is required.
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience with NHP in a research setting and 1 year NHP training/socializing.
- CRO and breeding management experience preferred.
- AALAS Certification at the LATg level preferred.
- Ability to effectively comprehend and communicate (verbal and written) in a professional manner.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently as well as in collaboration with a wide variety of personnel.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED is required.
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience with NHP in a research setting and 1 year NHP training/socializing.
- CRO and breeding management experience preferred.
- AALAS Certification at the LATg level preferred.
- Ability to effectively comprehend and communicate (verbal and written) in a professional manner.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently as well as in collaboration with a wide variety of personnel.
Benefits
- Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
- 401(k)/RRSP with Employer Match
- Paid Vacation and Holidays
- Paid Sick and Bereavement Leave
- Employee Assistance & Telehealth Programs
- Training & Development Programs
- Employee Referral Bonus Program
Company overview
Altasciences is a forward-thinking, mid-size contract research organization (CRO) and contract development manufacturing organization (CDMO) that provides integrated, full-service solutions for early phase drug development. Founded in 1992 and owned by Novo Holdings A/S, the company offers pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies a proven, flexible approach to preclinical and clinical pharmacology studies. Their comprehensive services include preclinical safety testing, clinical pharmacology and proof of concept studies, bioanalysis, formulation development, manufacturing and analytical services, program management, medical writing, biostatistics, and data management. With over 1,800 employees across eight facilities in the U.S. and Canada, Altasciences has established itself as a trusted partner for drug development from lead candidate selection through clinical proof of concept and beyond. The company's integrated CRO/CDMO model enables seamless transitions between development phases, reducing complexities, mitigating risks, and accelerating timelines for clients ranging from startups to global pharmaceutical leaders.