Animal Care Technician

Full-Time, 2-Year Contract

At the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), we are committed to achieving innovative, ground-breaking health and medical research that fundamentally improves the quality of life for all people.

We are seeking a proactive and highly motivated Animal Care Technician to join the Bioresources team at SAHMRI. This is a level 1 position, suitable for applicants who have attained Animal Science qualifications and are looking to take the next step in their career. In the position, you will work closely with a team of Animal Care Technicians to support day to day husbandry and care for laboratory animals within the facility, ensuring high standards of animal welfare and facility hygiene are maintained. The position will involve working closely with research staff to support, advise and assist with project work undertaken within the facility.

About the Role

Key responsibilities include:

Undertake all animal related duties and responsibilities to the highest of ethical and animal care standards and in compliance with legislation and SOPs

• Day-to-day care of laboratory rodents (mice and rats) including cage changing, food and water provision and daily health checks.
• Weaning and sexing of animals including collection of biopsy tissues for genotyping as required
• Basic manipulation techniques as required such as handling/ restraining, injections, euthanasia
• Operation of sterilizing equipment such as autoclaves, VHP machine, and performing regular quality controls
• Operation of cage wash equipment such as bedding disposal, cage washer, bedding and water dispenser
• Contribute to the successful completion of research projects undertaken within Bioresources by participating in animal experiments and adhering to research protocols and associated standard operating procedures
• Actively communicate with and support research group staff members in a positive and helpful manner in order to maintain the welfare and ethical monitoring standards of animals

About You

The successful candidate will possess the following key attributes:

• Tertiary Animal Science qualifications or equivalent experience (TAFE and/or University)
• Strong understanding of the principles of animal welfare
• Strong commitment to animal welfare and care
• General experience in handling rodents is desirable
• Have a demonstrated capacity to work cooperatively in a team environment.
• Ability to prioritise and adhere to strict timelines
• Meticulous documentation of information either written or electronic databases
• Basic computer skills
• Strong customer focus and commitment to quality
• Ability to follow direction and adhere to the assigned duty statement
• Reliable, patient and trustworthy with a professional and caring approach
• The ability to work individually or as a member of a team in a semi-isolated environment
• Ability to organise own timetable to schedule tasks using a work diary

Special Requirements

• Some out of hours' work or participation in a weekend and public holiday roster may be required.
• Tasks to be undertaken are of a physical and repetitive nature.
• This position is not suitable for individuals with existing allergic conditions.
• DCSI Employment Screening and Police Checks may be required.
• This position requires a pre-employment medical examination to determine suitability for the physical requirements of the role.

Everything we do is underpinned by our core values and our institute is dedicated to grow a culture that pursues, enables and demands research excellence. We are proud of the work we do and work hard as a team to make a positive difference to the community.  Our values of excellence, innovation, courage, integrity and teamwork are what help us achieve our goals. If these are also your values and goals, apply today.

As a not-for-profit organisation, SAHMRI employees can access salary packaging options up to $15,900. Salary packaging lets you pay for things like the everyday costs of living with money from your salary before tax. This reduces your taxable income, meaning you could pay less tax and take home more of what you earn. For more information on salary packaging please see the Maxxia website.

For a copy of the position description, please click here.

For more information, please contact Stuart Read at

Applications close: Wednesday 24th September 2025

Applications may close earlier than advertised if a suitable candidate is identified prior to the close date.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply