Animal Caretaker

Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia's oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly formed School of Medicine.

The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, founded in 1946, is dedicated to training future veterinarians, providing services to animal owners and veterinarians, and conducting investigations to improve the health of animals as well as people. The college benefits pets and their owners, food-producing animals, and wildlife by offering the highest quality hospital and diagnostic laboratory services. Equipped with the most technologically advanced facilities located on a university campus, the college is dedicated to safeguarding public health by studying emerging infectious diseases that affect both animal and human health.

The College of Veterinary Medicine values all members of the university community, recognizing that differences in experience and culture can only lead to a more well-rounded, accepting academic environment as embodied in our Principles of Community ( http://vet.uga.edu/principles-of-community/" target="_blank"> http://vet.uga.edu/principles-of-community/>)

Full-time position of 40 hours per week, and involves daytime work on weekends and some holidays. This position is located primarily in the Large animal hospital taking care of stalls for discharged large animals and preparation for new patients. Some cross training into small animal hospital when needed to cover a shift.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

Requires technical knowledge in the field acquired through an apprenticeship, a 2-year degree, or professional certificate. Please contact your Human Resources office for an evaluation of education/experience in lieu of the required minimum qualifications.

This position is located primarily in the Large animal hospital taking care of stalls for discharged large animals and preparation for new patients. Some cross training into small animal hospital when needed to cover a shift.
Preferred experience in a farm animal environment with proven experience driving a regular truck and forklift.

This work involves the cleaning and maintenance of patient facilities in the Vet Teaching Hospital. This includes removing manure and soiled shavings/bedding in patient stalls and kennels. Discharged patient stalls are also cleaned and disinfected. In specific areas of the hospital, floors are swept, vacuumed, and hosed clean. New patient stalls are prepared as directed by Lead Caretaker or Supervisor. Various other facilities of the hospital in both large and small animal are also cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. Assistance is also given to DVM's, Technicians, and Students where appropriate and requested.

Be comfortable in handling, upkeep, and working in close proximity with large and small animals. Ability to maintain sanitation/disinfection techniques for large animals and small ruminants. Ability to stand for long periods, and to work well interpersonally with a variety of staff, students, and doctors.

1. Lift, and carry up to 75 pounds.
2. Sit, stand, stoop, bend, and walk intermittently during the day on hard floor surfaces.
3. Manual dexterity sufficient to accurately work with small, delicate pieces of equipment or large heavy objects/containers/machinery.
4. Work for long periods with arms extended.
5. Work with cleaning equipment and chemicals.
6. Work within an environment with potential exposure to zoological diseases and has high levels of animal sounds, bodily fluids that need disposal, and open wound management.
7. Driving to perform job related duties.

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Each A.M. and P.M., thoroughly clean all patient stalls/kennels. Remove manure and soiled shavings/bedding and replace with clean bedding material. Clean and disinfect discharged patient stalls/kennels, as patients leave the hospital. Clean all accumulated food and water containers, and some equipment/supplies. Sweep, vacuum, and hose down floors and aisles in Hospital. Clean client parking lot and client areas as necessary.

Clean and maintain other facilities as necessary (medicine storage areas, field service vehicle area, dog walk and hospital grounds where clients walk animals as well as treatment rooms).

Assist DVM's, Techs, and students where appropriate-in preparing patient stalls and restraining patients for minor procedures. Drive to campus necropsy to either drop off animals or pickup ashes.