animal care cover letter examples

Cover Letter for Animal Care Jobs: Example and Tips

If you’d like to earn a job caring for animals, you aren’t alone. Animal care positions are available at kennels, shelters, rescue agencies, and other veterinary businesses. Also, many people take on animal care jobs as independent contractors — for instance as groomers, pet sitters, and walkers. 

Overall, most animal care jobs tend to be flexible and rewarding for furry-friend lovers. Also, it’s a high-growth industry. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics , the number of animal care and service jobs is projected to increase by 33% between 2020-30. 

Still, if you want to land a good gig in this field, you’d need to impress a potential employer with a great cover letter for Animal Care. Below is a sample letter and some extra writing tips.

Cover Letter Sample For Animal Care Jobs – .docx Format

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Cover Letter Example For Animal Care – Text Format

Dear Amber Haight,

My name is Laura Ninja and I am writing to you to express my interest in the position of in-home animal care specialist. I have experience in both pet care and house sitting, plus recently completed a training course with Kernels Academy, focused on managing aggressive behavior at dogs. 

Right now, I am a sophomore at Weston College. However, all of my classes are currently online. This gives me a very flexible schedule and will allow me to provide care according to each client’s stated timeline. Additionally, I am available for house sitting services for clients who prefer that. If needed, I can also provide care in my home for one animal at a time as long as that animal weighs less than 100 lb.

Your job listing indicated that you were looking for people with at least some pet care experience. In addition to having my own pets (two rescue cats and a 5-year-old border Collie), I have provided pet sitting services over the past four summers for families in my hometown. I’ve included letters of recommendation from three of my best clients. You can also find more employment details in the attached resume. 

My work as a caregiver included taking animals on walks, feeding and watering them, giving medication oh, and other related tasks. I have also successfully cared for animals two were deemed aggressive or unmanageable by other caregivers. I am willing to take on these difficult cases that many other caregivers refuse.

While I am certainly an animal lover, I also understand that this position is demanding and requires a high level of responsibility. I believe that I can deliver the kind of care that pet owners expect from a service like yours.

If you are interested in hiring someone who is experienced in animal care, and can deliver top customer service to owners as well, I’d love to meet with you. Would you be interested in scheduling an interview for next week? If you like, we can do an informal pet playdate outdoors with your Huskie and my Collie. 

Laura Ninja

How to Write a Cover Letter for Animal Care Jobs 

Are you ready to write a letter that will impress the hiring manager and help get you that coveted interview? Then go along with these tips. 

Make Yourself Stand Out in the Opening Paragraph 

Do you have any sort of special expertise that other applicants may not? If so, highlight it early in your cover letter. For example, in the sample cover letter above the writer mentions having experience dealing with animals that are difficult to care for and aggressive. That could certainly be appealing to a hiring manager who has difficulty fighting people with that particular skill.

Show You Take the Job Seriously

Some jobs attract applicants who simply believe that animal care positions are fun cuddles and playtime only. While animal care can definitely be enjoyable, it also requires dedication and responsibility. And, in some cases, a proper degree and work experience as a veterinary . Use your cover letter to show that you understand this and that you take every job seriously. You don’t want to appear as if you are submitting an application on a whim because you believe that animals are cute creatures, living for your enjoyment. 

Refer to your Resume

If you can get the hiring manager interested in your resume, you increase your chances of landing an interview. Remember that your cover letter is an introduction and your resume should contain details about your skills and experience. Connect your resume to your cover letter by mentioning that the reader can obtain more context about your experience from that document. 

Focus on Professionalism

Even though animal care physicians are often part-time and sometimes casual in nature, you should take the application process seriously. Use a professionally formatted template for your cover letter and make sure you use a good spelling and grammar checking utility. Do the same with your resume. Your application packet should show that you are a professional in pursuit of the job that you intend to do very well.

Final Tip: Customer Care is Key

In this job, you’re going to work closely with the pet owners too. Many pet parents are head over heels about their furry buddies. But may not always realize that they are not providing the best care and nurturing to their buds. Thus, most employers will want to know if you can be diplomatic and tactful when working with clients. Show that you can go above and beyond animal care to provide great customer service to the owners as well.

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Animal Care Assistant Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Use these Animal Care Assistant cover letter examples and writing tips to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

Table Of Contents

• Animal Care Assistant Example 1
• Animal Care Assistant Example 2
• Animal Care Assistant Example 3
• Cover Letter Writing Tips

Animal care assistants provide basic care for animals in a shelter or veterinary clinic. They may also be responsible for cleaning cages and kennels, feeding and watering animals, and disposing of waste.

To get a job as an animal care assistant, you need to write a cover letter that shows you’re the right person for the job. Check out the examples and tips below to learn how to write a cover letter that stands out.

Animal Care Assistant Cover Letter Example 1

I am excited to be applying for the Animal Care Assistant position at the local zoo. I have a lifelong love of animals and a dedication to providing the best possible care for them. I believe that my experience as a veterinary technician and my passion for helping animals make me the perfect candidate for this position.

I have worked as a veterinary technician for the past six years, and I have experience in both small and large animal care. I have also volunteered extensively with animal shelters and rescue organizations, so I have a deep understanding of the needs of animals. I am knowledgeable in animal behavior and am comfortable administering medication and providing basic first aid.

Most importantly, I have a passion for working with animals and a dedication to providing the best possible care for them. I am excited to join the team at the zoo and to contribute my skills and experience in animal care. I look forward to meeting you in person and discussing this opportunity further. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Animal Care Assistant Cover Letter Example 2

I am writing to apply for the Animal Care Assistant position that was recently advertised on your website. I am confident that I have the skills and experience that you are looking for, and I am eager to put my abilities to work in this position.

I have been working in the animal care industry for the past three years, and during that time I have developed a strong understanding of the responsibilities and duties of this position. I am knowledgeable in the care and feeding of a wide variety of animals, and I have experience in handling and restraining animals for examination and treatment. I am also familiar with the procedures for administering medication and vaccinations.

In addition to my experience and knowledge, I am also a hard-working and dedicated individual. I always strive to give my best effort in everything I do, and I am always willing to go the extra mile to get the job done. I am a team player who believes in working together to achieve common goals.

I would like to thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Animal Care Assistant Cover Letter Example 3

I am writing to express my interest in the Animal Care Assistant position that you have posted. I believe that my experience as an animal care assistant, coupled with my education and training, make me a strong candidate for this position.

I have been working as an animal care assistant for the past two years at the Greenfield Zoo. My duties there included feeding, cleaning, and providing enrichment for all of the animals on exhibit. I also assisted with the daily health checks and record keeping for each animal. I worked closely with the veterinarians and veterinary technicians to ensure that all of the animals were healthy and well cared for.

My previous work experience has given me the opportunity to develop excellent communication skills. I am able to communicate effectively with both staff and visitors. I am also able to explain procedures to visitors in a way that is easy to understand. This skill is especially important when dealing with children who may be frightened by some of the animals.

I am confident that my experience as an animal care assistant will allow me to quickly learn any new tasks that are required of me at your zoo. I am also confident that my ability to communicate effectively will allow me to work well with both staff and visitors. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Animal Care Assistant Cover Letter Writing Tips

1. show your love for animals.

When writing a cover letter for an animal care assistant position, it’s important to show hiring managers that you have a genuine love for animals. This can be done by providing specific examples of how you’ve cared for animals in the past, or by highlighting any animal-related coursework or experience you may have.

If you have any personal stories about how animals have touched your life, be sure to share them in your cover letter. This will help hiring managers see that you’re passionate about the role and have the necessary skills to be successful.

2. Demonstrate your commitment to animal welfare

In addition to showing your love for animals, you’ll also want to demonstrate your commitment to animal welfare. This can be done by talking about your views on animal rights, or by discussing any previous experience you may have working with animal shelters or rescue organizations.

If you have any certificates or awards related to animal welfare, be sure to mention them in your cover letter. This will help hiring managers see that you’re serious about the role and have the necessary skills to care for animals.

3. Tailor your cover letter to the job description

When applying for an animal care assistant position, it’s important to tailor your cover letter to the job description. This means reading the job description carefully and making sure that your cover letter includes all of the relevant skills and experience that the hiring manager is looking for.

For example, if the job description mentions that the ideal candidate has experience working with a specific type of animal, be sure to highlight any experience you have with that animal. You can also mention any other skills or qualifications you have that may be relevant to the role.

4. Proofread your cover letter

One of the best ways to make sure your cover letter is error-free is by proofreading it. Make sure to read it over a few times, and ask someone else to read it as well. This will help you catch any mistakes that you may have missed.

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Animal Care Assistant Cover Letter Example

An Animal Care Assistant is accountable for the daily care of animals in a menagerie, water features, animal charities, and other establishments. They frequently deal with a diverse range of species, including mammals, reptiles, and insects, and they could have areas of expertise in caring for certain species.

The majority of an Animal Care Assistant’s Day is spent taking care of the physical and mental needs of the animals under their charge. This can be giving food and cleansing cages or tanks, attending to any necessary medical needs, keeping an eye on behavior patterns, etc. If you desire the position, you must write a cover letter that emphasizes your love for animals, skills, and expertise in the quality service that you offer. Examine the tips and Animal Care Assistant Cover Letter Sample below to learn how to write a cover letter that will help you get this job.

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• Healthcare & Wellbeing

What to Include in a Animal Care Assistant Cover Letter?

Roles and responsibilities.

• Caring for animals including dogs, kittens, bunnies, parrots, or hamsters by nourishing, hydrating, and pampering them.
• Keeping enclosures clean by changing bedding and wiping excrement off the walls.
• Giving animals their meals on time.
• Giving basic medical assistance, such as giving medication or conducting physicals.
• Studying animals for symptoms of disease or stress and informing a vet or other members of the animal care workers of observations.
• Assisting veterinarians during inspections, therapies, surgeries, and other operations.
• Ensuring children’s safety by monitoring them at day-cares or schools.
• Maintaining shelters, flooring, and partitions clean and odor-free in the buildings.
• Animals are cleaned, their nails are clipped, their fur is brushed, and other treatments are done to get them ready for adoption.

Education & Skills

Animal care assistant skills:.

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• The capacity to feel empathy and concern towards animals.
• Exhibiting effective collaboration skills.
• The capacity to manage time and set priorities for tasks.
• Fundamental knowledge of animal behavior and management.
• Able to put in extra time to help sick or wounded animals.

Animal Care Assistant Educational Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s or an Associate’s degree in Animal Science, or a related discipline.
• Past employment backstory, especially in the same field of work.

Animal Care Assistant Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Dear Mr./Ms.,

I’m writing to apply for the position of Animal Care Assistant that was just posted on your website. I am certain that I possess the knowledge and expertise you are seeking, and I am excited to use them in this role. For the last six years, I have worked in the animal care sector, and throughout that time, I have gained a solid understanding of the obligations and responsibilities of this role. I have expertise in dealing with and hindering animals for diagnosis and treatments, and I am informed about feeding and caring for a range of animals. Additionally, I am familiar with how to give shots and take medications.

I have education and expertise, but I also put a lot of effort and dedication into who I am as a person. I constantly aim to give full measure in whatever I do, and I’m eager to go above and beyond to finish the job. I am a cooperative individual who favors teamwork to accomplish shared objectives.

Here are some of my professional highlights:

• I am skilled at coordinating several aspects of care to provide exceptional animal encounters, from bringing in newborn pets, and disinfecting chambers to nourishing and strolling pets and organizing supplies.
• I’ve also strengthened my client service, record-keeping, and coordination of animal adoption abilities.
• I have continually shown my unwavering dedication to the highest standards of animal welfare, and I’m ready to put those qualities to use.
• Completing schmooze and personality assessments with clients searching for fresh pets.
• Establishing a connection with pet parents to foster trust and a greater adoption encounter.
• Keeping a close check on the facility’s hygienic practices, security, and general comfort for both visitors and all shelter inhabitants.
• Demonstrating superior abilities in time management, prioritization, and interpersonal skills while juggling several activities.

I am convinced that my supplemental talents will easily switch to your workplace owing to my expertise in animal rescue, basic administration, and organization, coupled with my dynamic collaborative skills, positive outlook, and business acumen. I also believe that these abilities equip me to flourish in this post. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my credentials in greater detail. Kindly take a moment to review my resume in the attachment.

I appreciate your thoughts and time.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

You can produce a strong cover letter that will set you apart from the competition by using these cover letter samples and writing advice for Animal Care Assistants.

• It’s crucial to demonstrate to potential employers your real affection for animals.
• Show that you care about the welfare of animals.
• Adjust your cover letter to the position’s requirements.
• You should proofread your cover letter to ensure that there are no mistakes.

For additional assistance with your resumes, check our Animal Care Assistant Resume Samples .

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Related Healthcare & Wellbeing Cover Letters

Animal Caretaker Cover Letter Examples

A great animal caretaker cover letter can help you stand out from the competition when applying for a job. Be sure to tailor your letter to the specific requirements listed in the job description, and highlight your most relevant or exceptional qualifications. The following animal caretaker cover letter example can give you some ideas on how to write your own letter.

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Cover Letter Example (Text)

Marjorie Lavitt

(955) 759-8886

[email protected]

Dear Leighann Bahns,

I am writing to express my interest in the Animal Caretaker position at PetSmart Inc. My passion for animal welfare, coupled with my five years of hands-on experience at VCA Animal Hospitals, has thoroughly equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute effectively to your team.

During my tenure at VCA Animal Hospitals, I had the opportunity to work with a diverse array of animals, providing them with the utmost care and attention. My responsibilities ranged from feeding and grooming to assisting with medical procedures and ensuring that each animal's living environment was clean, safe, and enriching. I pride myself on my ability to quickly build trust with animals, which I believe is fundamental to their well-being and to delivering high-quality care.

My experience has not only been limited to direct animal care; I have also been involved in client education, helping pet owners understand the best practices for maintaining their pets’ health and happiness. This role honed my communication skills and taught me the importance of compassionate customer service, which I understand is a key component of the Animal Caretaker role at PetSmart Inc.

I am particularly excited about the opportunity to join PetSmart Inc. because of your company's commitment to pet adoption and community engagement. I share your vision of creating a better world for pets and am eager to contribute to your community initiatives and support your mission.

I am confident that my background, combined with my eagerness to learn and grow within your esteemed company, will make me a valuable addition to your team. I am looking forward to the possibility of discussing this exciting opportunity with you.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to bring my dedication, compassion, and experience to PetSmart Inc. and am looking forward to the potential of working together to enhance the lives of pets and their families.

Warm regards,

Related Cover Letter Examples

• Animal Care Technician
• Animal Control Officer
• Animal Caregiver
• Animal Keeper
• Animal Technician

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Animal Caretaker Cover Letter Example

Writing a cover letter for a job as an animal caretaker can be an exciting process as it involves ensuring the health and well-being of beloved animals. To make it easier, this guide provides tips on how to create a comprehensive and engaging cover letter. It also includes an example of a cover letter tailored to an animal caretaker role, so you can use it as a reference when writing your own. With the help of this guide, you’ll be better prepared to craft a cover letter that will have your potential employer eager to meet you.

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Animal Caretaker Cover Letter Sample

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I am writing to express my interest in the Animal Caretaker position you recently advertised. As an experienced animal caretaker with a commitment to compassionate and thorough animal care, I am confident I would make a great addition to your team.

My background includes two years of experience as an Animal Caretaker for ABC Animal Rescue, where I cared for a wide variety of animals, from cats and dogs to birds and rabbits. I have experience with providing animals with routine medical care, performing regular check- ups, and administering medication. I am also well- versed in animal behavior and am confident I can build strong relationships with animals in a caring and respectful way.

In addition to my experience, I have a passion for animal care and am a certified Humane Educator, having earned my certification through the National Humane Education Society. During my time at ABC Animal Rescue, I created and implemented effective educational programs to teach children and adults about animal care and safety.

I believe my skills and experience closely match what you are looking for in an Animal Caretaker, and I am confident my enthusiasm and knowledge will make me a great asset to your team. I would love to discuss in further detail how I can be a valuable member of the team, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Thank you for your consideration.

[Your Name]

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What should a Animal Caretaker cover letter include?

A cover letter for an Animal Caretaker position should include information that highlights the applicant’s specific qualifications and skills related to the job description. The cover letter should cover the applicant’s experience in caring for animals, as well as any relevant education and certifications. It should also demonstrate the applicant’s knowledge of animal behavior and the ability to handle animals in a safe and humane manner.

In addition to the above, the cover letter should emphasize qualities such as patience, empathy, and a passion for caring for animals. It should also discuss the applicant’s organizational and problem- solving skills. Finally, the cover letter should provide a brief summary of the applicant’s work history in the field and any relevant references. By covering all these points, the applicant can demonstrate their qualifications and enthusiasm for the position.

Animal Caretaker Cover Letter Writing Tips

A cover letter is a crucial part of any job application, and being an animal caretaker is no different. When applying for such a position, a well- written cover letter can make the difference between getting an interview and being passed over for the job. Here are some useful tips to help you write a successful cover letter for an animal caretaker job:

• Research the company: Before you start writing, take a few minutes to research the company you are applying to. Find out as much as you can about the company and the job you are applying for. This will help you customize your cover letter so that it speaks directly to the employer’s needs.
• Open with a strong introduction: Start your cover letter by introducing yourself and why you are the right person for the job. Make sure your introduction is engaging and grabs the reader’s attention.
• Highlight relevant experience: Your cover letter should showcase your skills and experience that are directly related to the job you are applying for. Tailor your experience to the job description and make sure to include examples of your accomplishments.
• Showcase your passion: As an animal caretaker, your passion for animals should be evident in your cover letter. Talk about your love for animals and how it motivates you to go above and beyond in your work.
• Proofread and edit: Before you submit your cover letter, spend some time going through it to make sure it is error- free. It only takes a few minutes to proofread and edit, and it can make a huge difference in the effectiveness of your cover letter.

Common mistakes to avoid when writing Animal Caretaker Cover letter

Creating a cover letter for an Animal Caretaker position can be a challenge if you don’t know what is expected. Having a clear idea of the job requirements and the necessary qualifications will help you create a compelling cover letter. However, there are also some common mistakes that you should avoid when writing a cover letter for an Animal Caretaker position.

• Not including your specific qualifications: A cover letter should highlight your specific qualifications for the position, including any experience or training that you have that is relevant. Make sure to include your unique qualifications in your cover letter so you stand out from other applicants.
• Not addressing the employer directly: When writing your cover letter, make sure you address the hiring manager or employer directly. This will show them that you have taken the time to research the company and that you are interested in the position.
• Not personalizing the cover letter: A generic cover letter will not get you noticed by the employer. Take the time to customize your cover letter to the job and company that you are applying to. Including specific details and examples will show the employer that you are the right candidate for the job.
• Not proofreading: A major mistake that many applicants make is not proofreading their cover letter. Make sure to read over your cover letter several times to ensure that there are no spelling or grammatical errors.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you will be well on your way to creating a compelling cover letter that stands out from the competition. With a well- written and personalized cover letter, you will be sure to catch the eye of any potential employer.

Key takeaways

When applying for the job of an Animal Caretaker, it’s important to make sure you have an effective cover letter that stands out and captures the attention of prospective employers. While a resume provides a comprehensive overview of your experience and qualifications, your cover letter should be tailored to the specific position you are applying for. To help you get started, here are some key takeaways for writing an impressive Animal Caretaker cover letter:

• Highlight relevant experience: Make sure to highlight any experience you have caring for animals, such as volunteer work, pet sitting, or other related experience. Also, be sure to mention any certifications or special skills that may be applicable.
• Show passion for animals: Employers want to see that you are truly passionate about animal care and that you will be a dedicated and reliable employee. Make sure to mention that you truly care about animals and their wellbeing.
• Make a strong introduction: Begin your cover letter with a strong introduction that grabs the reader’s attention and encourages them to read more. Mention the position you are applying for and explain why it interests you.
• Explain why you’re the right fit: Explain why you are the right fit for the job by highlighting your qualifications and experience. Include any specific skills you have that make you an ideal candidate.
• Be concise and specific: Your cover letter should be concise and to the point, but don’t forget to include enough detail to make your case. Be sure to include only relevant information and avoid making your letter too long.
• Proofread: Always make sure to proofread your cover letter before sending. Check for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation, and make sure everything is clear and concise.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.how do i write a cover letter for an animal caretaker job with no experience.

Writing a cover letter for an animal caretaker job with no experience can be a daunting task. However, with the right approach and knowledge, you can create a compelling cover letter that will demonstrate your abilities and enthusiasm for the job.

When beginning your cover letter, start with a strong introduction that will grab the reader’s attention. Use the first paragraph to explain why you’re interested in the position and why you would be a great fit. Then, delve into your educational background, as well as any volunteer or internship experience you may have had.

For the second paragraph, it is important to show the employer that you’ve done your research and are familiar with the type of role they’re hiring for. Explain any particular skills or abilities you have that will be beneficial for the job, such as empathy, communication, and problem- solving.

Finally, wrap up your cover letter by expressing your sincere interest in the position and thanking the employer for their time.

2.How do I write a cover letter for an Animal Caretaker job experience?

When writing a cover letter for an animal caretaker job with experience, it is important to showcase your expertise in the field. Start your letter with a strong introduction that details your experience in the field and why you’re interested in the position.

For the second paragraph, discuss any areas of the job that you excel in, such as animal safety, nutrition, and disease prevention. Explain any particular skills or training you have that will be beneficial for the job, such as CPR certification or experience with rescue animals.

In the third paragraph, mention any extra- curricular activities or volunteer experience you’ve had that have developed your knowledge of animal care. This is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to the field and showcase your abilities and accomplishments.

Finally, wrap up your cover letter by expressing your enthusiasm for the position and thanking the employer for their time.

3.How can I highlight my accomplishments in Animal Caretaker cover letter?

Highlighting your accomplishments in an Animal Caretaker cover letter is a great way to demonstrate your value as a candidate. Start by discussing any qualifications you have, such as CPR certification or experience with animal behavior. Then, mention any achievements you’ve had, such as successful animal rescue missions or awards you’ve won for your work in the field.

For the second paragraph, discuss any extra- curricular activities or volunteer experience you’ve had that have developed your knowledge of animal care. Explain any particular skills or training you have that will be beneficial for the job, such as empathy, communication, and problem- solving.

In addition to this, be sure to check out our cover letter templates , cover letter formats ,  cover letter examples ,  job description , and  career advice  pages for more helpful tips and advice.

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Animal Care Supervisor

How to apply.

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached to your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relates to this position.

Mission Statement

Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally.  Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.

Why Join Michigan Medicine?

Michigan Medicine is one of the largest health care complexes in the world and has been the site of many groundbreaking medical and technological advancements since the opening of the U-M Medical School in 1850. Michigan Medicine is comprised of over 30,000 employees and our vision is to attract, inspire, and develop outstanding people in medicine, sciences, and healthcare to become one of the world’s most distinguished academic health systems.  In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. Work at Michigan Medicine and become a victor for the greater good.

What Benefits can you Look Forward to?

• Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage effective on your very first day
• 2:1 Match on retirement savings

Responsibilities*

• Coordinate the daily operation of one or more complex facilities. Ensures all daily work is done in a timely fashion and in accordance with all standard operating procedures and regulations.    
• Train, evaluate, schedule, and direct the activities of the husbandry, AFSCME and temporary workers
• Coordinate and assign work schedules for animal husbandry and cage wash staff to ensure balanced workloads and efficient work flow
• Evaluate staffing needs to ensure appropriate staffing levels are maintained to meet departmental goals
• Coordinate and deliver required training for new and existing employees in the husbandry and/or cage wash areas
• Coordinate animal room moves to accommodate investigators, facility renovations and repairs
• Maintain facilities to be inspection ready at all times to prevent and mitigate repeat inspection citations
• Participate in area IACUC inspections to prevent and mitigate repeat inspection citations
• Confer with researchers regularly regarding day-to-day operations as well as special handling, treatment and experimental needs.
• Perform monthly Quality Assurance inspections
• Under the guidance of the Animal Care Manager the supervisor will be responsible for staff performance management, which includes providing timely feedback, coaching/counseling and progressive discipline. 
• Promote and support a positive working environment within unit
• Oversee disposition of animals
• Assist in departmental planning and development, review and revise standard operating procedures for animal use
• Provide facility orientations to internal and external customers
• Regularly review the maintenance of unit records
• Maintain inventory of equipment, instruments, and supplies.
• Support and assist animal care managers
• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications*

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field or an equivalent combination of certification, education and experience providing animal care.
• Some biomedical research or animal husbandry experience is required. (At least 4 years of paid animal experience with 3 years in a laboratory animal setting)
• Demonstrated leadership ability
• Certification of American Association of Laboratory Animal Science – Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG) certification within 6 months of being eligible
• Strong skills in communication and conflict management
• Strong organizational skills to help with planning and opening of new vivarium facilities
• Proficient in the use and understanding of Word, Excel, and Microsoft Office applications

Desired Qualifications*

• Minimum one-year experience supervising in a related field
• Advanced knowledge of the methods, materials, and equipment used in animal care and laboratory activities
• Skills that demonstrate the ability to communicate in a professional, positive, and helpful manner with co-workers, management and research community
• Skills that demonstrate the ability to coordinate a projects and/or perform in a liaison role between multiple groups
• Ability to manage change and understand multiple interpretations of procedures
• Completion of full training for Animal Technician Associate
• Certified Manager of Animal Resources (CMAR) by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS)

Work Schedule

Full Time/40 hrs. /Day Shift/Some Weekends and Holidays

Background Screening

Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings.  Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. This job may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.