Manager, Animal Care Services
Apply NowCompany: University of Saskatchewan
Location: Saskatoon, SK S7H 5T5
Description:
Manager, Animal Care Services
The University of Saskatchewan's (USask) main campus is located in the vibrant city of Saskatoon on Treaty 6 territory and the traditional homeland of the Mtis. USask is one of the top research-intensive, medical doctoral universities in Canada, and is home to world-leading research in areas of global importance, such as water and food security and infectious diseases.
The Office of the Vice-President Research (OVPR) provides visionary leadership and strategic direction to the university's research, scholarly, and artistic works (RSAW) ecosystem/community. This is achieved by creating strategic partnerships, plans, and policies that together create a supportive research environment indicative of a world-class research-intensive university.
Primary Purpose: The Manager, Animal Care Services is to provide overall leadership, management and direction for the animal facilities under the operations of Animal Care and Research Support (ACRS) under the Office of the Vice-President Research (OVPR), including supervision of the Assistant Manager (ACS), Animal Technicians and Support Staff.
Nature of Work: Reporting to the University Veterinarian, the Animal Care Services Manager is responsible for the operational oversight of ACRS animal facilities. The position optimizes service resources, personnel, equipment, and supplies to ensure the delivery of superior animal care and services by the department of Animal Care and Research Support. The ACS Manager ensures technical coverage is provided and functions as a member of the technical team as required.
Work is performed in accordance with research protocols and must comply with Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) Guidelines, University Animal Care Committee (UACC) procedures, University Policy, and all pertinent federal, provincial, and local guidelines and regulations. This position is exposed to animal waste and some unpleasant odors. May be subject to dress code and traffic pattern restrictions.
This complex position may experience constant interruptions, changing priorities, strict deadlines, multiple competing demands and possible moderate to heavy physical labor.
Duties and Accountabilities:
Working in close collaboration with the University Veterinarian, Assistant Manager (ACS), Aquatics Manager, others within ACRS, and multiple constituent groups and stakeholders, the Manager;
Demonstrates a commitment to teamwork, positivity, and fosters a positive working relationship with all stakeholders and equipment suppliers.
Provides direct supervision of all staff and manages the employee life cycle through activities including but not limited to recruitment, retention, separation, orientation/onboarding, coaching and performance management, feedback, supporting professional growth, training and development, managing performance improvement, and addressing any disciplinary matters including termination.
Organizes and manages daily work schedules to accommodate fluctuations in workload while ensuring adequate technical coverage is provided throughout the calendar year including weekends and holidays.
Keeps apprised of current standards and practices for use of animals in research and teaching in Canada; ensures adherence to the policies and guidelines set by the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC), the University Animal Care Committee (UACC), and all relevant regional, provincial, and federal regulations and promotes and reinforces these principles to all animal users.
Adept at facility design and workflow to ensure renovations are in keeping with regulatory requirements and traffic patterns ensure biosecurity of all locations to ensure animal health and welfare.
Demonstrates a strong understanding of rodent breeding schemes and troubleshooting.
Completes monthly billing and reporting to facilities users.
Evaluates financial revenue and expenditures annually to determine appropriate service charges to ensure adequate facility contingency funding.
Develops facility standard operating procedures (SOPs) and ensures adherence to safe practices related to animal care and facilities care.
Reviews and approves Animal Use Protocols and animal orders to plan for capacity and research use and works with faculty to facilitate research projects.
Performs troubleshooting, problem solving, and both preventative and corrective maintenance to ensure efficient and continual function for all facilities and brings issues requiring further assistance to the attention of the University Veterinarian and Aquatics Manager as needed.
Provides facility orientation and training for all users and manages key access and maintains facility supply inventory.
Shares 24/7 emergency on call support.
Education: Graduate of a recognized two-year Veterinary Technologist or Animal Health Technician program or an equivalent combination of education in an animal related field and experience. Completion of post-secondary undergraduate or graduate degree in a relevant field is considered an asset.
Licenses: Must have active Registered Laboratory Animal Technician (RLAT) certification with the Canadian Association of Laboratory Animal Science (CALAS), Registered Master Laboratory Animal Technician (RMLAT) certification is considered an asset. Must hold and maintain a valid Saskatchewan driver's license and an acceptable driving record.
Experience: A minimum of 8 years' experience working in an animal facility that houses barrier contained laboratory animals in both conventional and level 2 containment. Extensive experience working with diverse species and procedures in research and teaching. High experience and proven track record working collaboratively in a team while also leading, supervising, mentoring, and managing people and processes. Strong working knowledge of the policies/procedures of the CCAC, UACC, and University of Saskatchewan.
Skills:
Proficient animal care and technical skills working with laboratory mammal and aquatic animals in a research facility;
demonstrated proficiency in personnel supervision, coaching and motivating, leadership and conflict resolution skills;
effective interpersonal and communication skills both written and verbal; demonstrated effective organizational and time management skills;
ability to adapt and work in a dynamic environment maintaining a professional and positive demeanor; ability to work both independently and as part of a team;
proven ability to work on multiple tasks/projects with competing demands to meet deadlines;
ability to evaluate the work of others;
ability to perform moderate physical labor;
strong computer skills including proficiency using spreadsheets, word processing, and database software (e.g. Microsoft Office software, including Access);
ability to make financial calculations, including budgeting, cost estimation, and financial analysis; ability to uses software for invoicing and processing financial transactions;
a desire to listen and respond to the needs and concerns of researchers and a willingness to be accessible to faculty, staff, and students;
ability to work under stressful conditions including critical situations;
demonstrated ability to work effectively and efficiently with minimal supervision;
the ability to identify issues and provide self-directed solutions
This position is in scope of the Administrative and Supervisory Personnel Association (ASPA).
For all inquires regarding this posting or position please reach out to Kurtis Swekla @ kurtis.swekla@usask.ca.
Department: Research Ethics & Infrastructure
Status: Permanent
Employment Group: ASPA
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $67,681.00 - 105,753.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Family (if applicable): Managerial
Salary Phase/Band: Phase 2
Posted Date: 3/26/2025
Closing Date: 4/23/2025 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: May be eligible for hybrid work under the terms of USask's Alternative Workspace Guidelines
The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and are proud to support career opportunities for Indigenous peoples to reflect the community we serve. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by thedeybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation. The University of Saskatchewan's main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Mtis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Mtis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan.
The University of Saskatchewan's (USask) main campus is located in the vibrant city of Saskatoon on Treaty 6 territory and the traditional homeland of the Mtis. USask is one of the top research-intensive, medical doctoral universities in Canada, and is home to world-leading research in areas of global importance, such as water and food security and infectious diseases.
The Office of the Vice-President Research (OVPR) provides visionary leadership and strategic direction to the university's research, scholarly, and artistic works (RSAW) ecosystem/community. This is achieved by creating strategic partnerships, plans, and policies that together create a supportive research environment indicative of a world-class research-intensive university.
Primary Purpose: The Manager, Animal Care Services is to provide overall leadership, management and direction for the animal facilities under the operations of Animal Care and Research Support (ACRS) under the Office of the Vice-President Research (OVPR), including supervision of the Assistant Manager (ACS), Animal Technicians and Support Staff.
Nature of Work: Reporting to the University Veterinarian, the Animal Care Services Manager is responsible for the operational oversight of ACRS animal facilities. The position optimizes service resources, personnel, equipment, and supplies to ensure the delivery of superior animal care and services by the department of Animal Care and Research Support. The ACS Manager ensures technical coverage is provided and functions as a member of the technical team as required.
Work is performed in accordance with research protocols and must comply with Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) Guidelines, University Animal Care Committee (UACC) procedures, University Policy, and all pertinent federal, provincial, and local guidelines and regulations. This position is exposed to animal waste and some unpleasant odors. May be subject to dress code and traffic pattern restrictions.
This complex position may experience constant interruptions, changing priorities, strict deadlines, multiple competing demands and possible moderate to heavy physical labor.
Duties and Accountabilities:
Working in close collaboration with the University Veterinarian, Assistant Manager (ACS), Aquatics Manager, others within ACRS, and multiple constituent groups and stakeholders, the Manager;
Demonstrates a commitment to teamwork, positivity, and fosters a positive working relationship with all stakeholders and equipment suppliers.
Provides direct supervision of all staff and manages the employee life cycle through activities including but not limited to recruitment, retention, separation, orientation/onboarding, coaching and performance management, feedback, supporting professional growth, training and development, managing performance improvement, and addressing any disciplinary matters including termination.
Organizes and manages daily work schedules to accommodate fluctuations in workload while ensuring adequate technical coverage is provided throughout the calendar year including weekends and holidays.
Keeps apprised of current standards and practices for use of animals in research and teaching in Canada; ensures adherence to the policies and guidelines set by the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC), the University Animal Care Committee (UACC), and all relevant regional, provincial, and federal regulations and promotes and reinforces these principles to all animal users.
Adept at facility design and workflow to ensure renovations are in keeping with regulatory requirements and traffic patterns ensure biosecurity of all locations to ensure animal health and welfare.
Demonstrates a strong understanding of rodent breeding schemes and troubleshooting.
Completes monthly billing and reporting to facilities users.
Evaluates financial revenue and expenditures annually to determine appropriate service charges to ensure adequate facility contingency funding.
Develops facility standard operating procedures (SOPs) and ensures adherence to safe practices related to animal care and facilities care.
Reviews and approves Animal Use Protocols and animal orders to plan for capacity and research use and works with faculty to facilitate research projects.
Performs troubleshooting, problem solving, and both preventative and corrective maintenance to ensure efficient and continual function for all facilities and brings issues requiring further assistance to the attention of the University Veterinarian and Aquatics Manager as needed.
Provides facility orientation and training for all users and manages key access and maintains facility supply inventory.
Shares 24/7 emergency on call support.
Education: Graduate of a recognized two-year Veterinary Technologist or Animal Health Technician program or an equivalent combination of education in an animal related field and experience. Completion of post-secondary undergraduate or graduate degree in a relevant field is considered an asset.
Licenses: Must have active Registered Laboratory Animal Technician (RLAT) certification with the Canadian Association of Laboratory Animal Science (CALAS), Registered Master Laboratory Animal Technician (RMLAT) certification is considered an asset. Must hold and maintain a valid Saskatchewan driver's license and an acceptable driving record.
Experience: A minimum of 8 years' experience working in an animal facility that houses barrier contained laboratory animals in both conventional and level 2 containment. Extensive experience working with diverse species and procedures in research and teaching. High experience and proven track record working collaboratively in a team while also leading, supervising, mentoring, and managing people and processes. Strong working knowledge of the policies/procedures of the CCAC, UACC, and University of Saskatchewan.
Skills:
Proficient animal care and technical skills working with laboratory mammal and aquatic animals in a research facility;
demonstrated proficiency in personnel supervision, coaching and motivating, leadership and conflict resolution skills;
effective interpersonal and communication skills both written and verbal; demonstrated effective organizational and time management skills;
ability to adapt and work in a dynamic environment maintaining a professional and positive demeanor; ability to work both independently and as part of a team;
proven ability to work on multiple tasks/projects with competing demands to meet deadlines;
ability to evaluate the work of others;
ability to perform moderate physical labor;
strong computer skills including proficiency using spreadsheets, word processing, and database software (e.g. Microsoft Office software, including Access);
ability to make financial calculations, including budgeting, cost estimation, and financial analysis; ability to uses software for invoicing and processing financial transactions;
a desire to listen and respond to the needs and concerns of researchers and a willingness to be accessible to faculty, staff, and students;
ability to work under stressful conditions including critical situations;
demonstrated ability to work effectively and efficiently with minimal supervision;
the ability to identify issues and provide self-directed solutions
This position is in scope of the Administrative and Supervisory Personnel Association (ASPA).
For all inquires regarding this posting or position please reach out to Kurtis Swekla @ kurtis.swekla@usask.ca.
Department: Research Ethics & Infrastructure
Status: Permanent
Employment Group: ASPA
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $67,681.00 - 105,753.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Family (if applicable): Managerial
Salary Phase/Band: Phase 2
Posted Date: 3/26/2025
Closing Date: 4/23/2025 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: May be eligible for hybrid work under the terms of USask's Alternative Workspace Guidelines
The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and are proud to support career opportunities for Indigenous peoples to reflect the community we serve. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by thedeybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation. The University of Saskatchewan's main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Mtis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Mtis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan.