Assistant Operations Manager - DLAR Husbandry

Job Summary

Under the direction of the Operations Manager or the Senior Operations Manager, assists in the management and coordination of activities of personnel engaged in the operation of animal care facilities in the Division of Laboratory Animal Resources.

Special Conditions of Employment

Occupational Health and Safety

As a safeguard for the employee and the animals, medical examinations and risk assessments are performed.  Some immunizations or further diagnostics may be required prior to working with specific animals or animal populations as determined by occupational health medical personnel, including, but not limited to:

• TB testing and clearance;
• Hepatitis B (proof of immunization and/or vaccination);
• Rabies (proof of immunization and/or vaccination);
• Tetanus (current vaccination less than 10 years);
• Measles (proof of immunization and/or vaccination);
• Periodic physical examinations (including respiratory fit tests);
• Other vaccines or testing as required by EOHW standards.

Hazard Exposure

The animal facility has a variety of environmental conditions. Specifically, employees may be exposed to potentially hazardous noise, dust, chemicals, extreme heat, and animal waste products. The duration of exposure of any of the above is dependent on assigned duties. Some aspects of this position may expose the incumbent to potentially zoonotic and other biohazardous agents. Appropriate protective clothing and equipment may be required and will be provided when required, accompanied by appropriate training.

Work Performed

• Supervises the Comparative Medicine Specialist (CMS) staff under the guidance of the Manager. 
• Plans and schedules work assignments. Ensures that schedules are efficient, assignments are made promptly, and working time is utilized efficiently.
• Assigns duties to employees and monitors quantity and quality of work performed. Communicates assigned duties verbally and in writing.
• Monitors daily, weekly, and mothly work assignments in accordance with SOPs.
• Assists with the estabilishment of performance standards for animal care and facility sanitation according to animal welfare regulations and AAALAC accreditation guidelines.
• Makes recommendations on improvements to leadership team.
• Monitors equipment, materials, and supplies needed for facility operations. Makes recommendations to the Manager and assists in the scheduling and ensuring completion of repairs.
• Inspects facility daily and reports issues to the Manager in a timely fashion.
• Issues appropriate corrective action, including counseling and formal actions when needed, in accordance with Duke University work rules.
• Monitors attendance of employees in accordance with appropriate University/departmental policies and procedures.
• Conducts interviews and makes hiring recommendations.
• Facilitates the movement of animals coming to the university and the movement of animals within the medical center, and other facilities as needed.
• Expands technical knowledge base to enhance effectiveness on the job.
• Leads CMS staff meetings and attends leadership team meetings.
• Serves on various committees/projects as assigned.
• Shows initiative by making suggestions that lead to improved work processes.
• Identifies opportunities to enhance customer service.
• Takes initiative to promote a safe work enviornment. Ensures that employees are compliant with OESO and departmental safety guidelines.
• Demonstrates leadership by helping staff to achieve goals.
• Ensures that commitments are met and problems resolved when out of the office.
• Consistently fosters respect in the workplace.
• Displays excellent communication skills in listening and responding to others in all situations.
• Communicates the need to train and support employees as the department changes.
• Treats customers with dignity and respect.
• Delegates challenging assignments to employees to support development.
• Balances quality and cost effectiveness in decision making.
• Participates in AALAS Certification Registry and maintains “Registered” status at Laboratory Animal Technologist Level.

Skills

• Displays a willingness and desire to manage, develop and mentor staff
• Possesses strong leadership skills; is recognized as a leader by colleagues
• Possesses strong knowledge of the lab animal science field, including SOP’s, policies, facilities, equipment and supplies
• Strives for continuous improvement for self, staff and department
• Is dedicated to excellent customer service
• Communicates well and is willing to listen to staff
• Is self-motivated
• Projects a positive attitude to staff
• Identifies and solves problems
• Supports staff, team, and departmental philosophy
• Delegates efficiently and effectively
• Follows-up with others
• Works well with internal and external customers and colleagues
• Is fair and consistent

Minimum Qualifications

Education

Work requiresa Bachelor's Degree in Animal Husbandry, Biology, Animal Science, or related field. LATG certification required. Participates in AALAS Certification Registry and maintain "Registered" status at Laboratory Animal Technologist Level.

Experience

Work requires five years of experience in laboratory animal resources, to include two years in a managerial role or an equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience.

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Essential Physical Job Functions: Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essentialjob functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.