Cage Wash Supervisor

Position Overview The Cage Wash Supervisor oversees and coordinates cage wash operations across multiple Research Animal Resources (RAR) facilities at the University of Minnesota. This position is responsible for ensuring that all caging, equipment, and supplies are properly cleaned, sanitized, and sterilized according to institutional policies, AAALAC standards, and federal regulations. The incumbent provides leadership and direction to a team of cage wash technicians, ensuring operational consistency, safety, and efficiency across multiple locations. Working Conditions and Physical/Environmental Requirements Working hours are 6:00am-2:30pm and may require occasional evening, weekend, or on‑call hours. Designated as an Essential Employee; must report on site during a University State of Emergency. Work is performed in animal research facilities with exposure to noise, heat, humidity, detergents, and biological materials. Exposure to animal allergens. Must lift up to 50 pounds, stand for extended periods, and wear required PPE. Proof of current Tetanus vaccine required within first week. Annual Tuberculosis test for working with certain species. Annual hearing test in hearing conservation area due to high noise. Rabies vaccine or titer required for certain species or employee may decline. Annual flu vaccine required for some animal species. Measles titer may be drawn. Work may be in wet rooms or around large industrial cage washers. Work may be in outdoor environment in any weather conditions. May be required to wear a powered air purifying respirator (PAPR) or N95 mask. Job Responsibilities Operational Oversight – 40% Supervise cage wash operations at multiple vivarium sites to ensure consistency in sanitation, sterilization, and service quality. Coordinate cage wash operations, including appropriate use of bedding dispensers, dump stations, tunnel washers, rack washers, autoclaves, and bottle filling systems in multiple facilities with different layouts. Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for cage wash and sanitation processes. Monitor equipment performance, coordinate preventive maintenance with internal and external entities, and ensure timely repair of equipment. Evaluate processes for efficiency and recommend improvements to meet throughput and service goals. Supervision and Leadership – 30% Supervise, hire, schedule, and evaluate cage wash staff across multiple facilities. Provide and document training in the proper use of equipment, safety practices, and sanitation protocols. Promote a positive, safe, and team‑oriented work environment. Conduct performance evaluations, support professional development, and initiate corrective action when necessary, in accordance with applicable collective bargaining unit agreements. Safety and Compliance – 15% Ensure compliance with university safety policies, AAALAC standards, and applicable federal and state regulations (USDA, OLAW, PHS). Maintain accurate logs for sanitation cycles, autoclave validation, and safety inspections. Conduct and document safety training sessions and ensure proper use of PPE. Participate in facility inspections, AAALAC site visits, and internal audits. Administrative and Collaborative Support – 15% Manage inventory and ordering of detergents, PPE, and cage wash consumables. Collaborate with veterinary, operations, and research staff to ensure coordinated facility support. Assist with departmental planning, budgeting, and emergency response coordination. Support the implementation of standardized operating procedures and best practices across all vivarium locations. Assist other members of the infrastructure team during absences or projects. May act as the Manager's designee when the Manager is unavailable. Qualifications Required Qualifications BA/BS plus at least two years of experience or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least six years. Experience in cage wash operations, sanitation procedures, and sterilization processes. Ability to coordinate operations across multiple facilities and manage competing priorities. Experience using computers and smartphones. Must have a valid driver's license, ability to safely operate a van, and meet the University's standards on a Department of Motor Vehicle record check. Preferred Qualifications Two years in a lead or supervisory capacity. AALAS certification at the LAT or LATG level. Supervisory experience in a large, multi‑site academic or research institution. Familiarity with AAALAC International accreditation standards and animal welfare regulations (USDA, OLAW, PHS). Experience with Lean/Continuous Improvement practices in facility operations. Demonstrated leadership, organization, and communication skills. Proficiency with electronic scheduling, data entry, or facility management software. Experience working in material handling, sanitation (especially in a laboratory, commercial kitchen, animal facility, or hospital setting), delivery/truck driving, inventory management, and/or on a production line. Pay and Benefits Pay Range: $25.48 – $36.54 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience. Time Appointment: 100% Time Appointment. Position Type: Civil‑Service Staff. Work Profile: Profile 1, Office Lab‑Based – primarily on‑site in the office/lab; occasional remote work. Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off. Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program. Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans. Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts. University HSA contributions. Disability and employer‑paid life insurance. Employee wellbeing program. Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity. Financial counseling services. Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost. Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area. Diversity and Inclusion The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment. This position is not eligible for H‑1B or green‑card sponsorship. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of Minnesota