Position Details
Research Projects – CSOF3
Role summary for potential applicants
Advertised Job Title:
Animal care technician/rabbit colony manager
Reference Number:
6101
Classification:
CSOF3
Salary Range:
AU $59K to AU $75K plus up to 15.4% superannuation
Location:
Black Mountain, ACT
Tenure:
Indefinite
Relocation assistance:
Will be provided to the successful candidate if required.
Applications are open to:
Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents Only

Functional Area:
Research Projects
% Client Focus - Internal:
100%
% Client Focus - External:
0%
Reports to the:
Team Leader Invasive Animals
Number of Direct Reports:
0
Role Overview:
The role of Research Projects staff in CSIRO is to collaborate in scientific activities with other research
staff usually by assisting with detailed planning, undertaking or assisting with experimental and
observational work, and in carrying out the more practical aspects of the work.
We are seeking a full time animal care technician/animal colony manager to manage and maintain the
domestic rabbit breeding colony at CSIRO Black Mountain, Canberra. In this role you will also assist in
preparing and conducting experimental research involving animals.
We are looking for an enthusiastic, conscientious team member with excellent attention to detail,
strong communications and organisation skills, as well as formal qualifications in animal care and
management.
Duties and Key Result Areas:

Review, comprehend and comply with all SOP's and quality assurance standards pertaining to
laboratory animals for research.

Perform animal husbandry duties to maintain quality and health of research animals, including:
daily bottle/cage/animal checks; provide appropriate food and water and monitor weight;
perform cage changing and/or cage cleaning/sanitizing as required; handling and socialising of
rabbits. May perform minor medical treatments of animals as directed by the veterinary staff.
Observe and report problems involving animal care equipment and environmental support
system.

Maintain accurate record keeping; prepare annual breeding colony statistics and reports for the
Animal Ethics Committee. Assist in developing daily animal monitoring rosters.

Monitor and maintain adequate supplies for rabbit breeding colony and experiments, including
food, toys, bedding, cages and accessories.

In consultation with researchers, develop and execute rabbit breeding and rearing schedules.

Assist with setting up experimental rooms, handling and monitoring during and
decontamination of facilities after experiments.

Communicate effectively and respectfully with all staff, clients and suppliers in the interests of
good business practice, collaboration and enhancement of CSIRO’s reputation.

Work collaboratively with colleagues within your team, the business unit and across CSIRO, to
reach objectives.

Provide instruction on activities pertaining to the immediate work area and responsibilities, as
required.

Adhere to the spirit and practice of CSIRO’s Values, Health, Safety and Environment plans and
policies, Diversity initiatives and Zero Harm goals.

Other duties as directed.
Selection Criteria:
Under CSIRO policy only those who meet all essential criteria can be appointed
Pre-Requisites:
1. Communication: Ability to communicate in a fluent and courteous manner, both orally and in
writing, offering factual information supported by proven data, and providing appropriate feedback
when required.
2. Behaviours: A history of professional and respectful behaviours and attitudes in a collaborative
environment.
3. Adaptability: The ability to effectively manage a number of competing priorities simultaneously,
and carry out non-routine tasks under general direction.
4. Problem Solving: Proven ability to investigate routine problems by identifying and considering the
implications of a range of available alternative solutions.
Essential Criteria:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Formal qualifications and relevant experience in animal care and husbandry and/or animal house
management.
Willingness and motivation to work extensively with rabbits and uphold a very high standard of
animal care and welfare.
Understanding of basic principles of hygiene pertaining to the prevention and spread of infectious
diseases.
Driver's licence.
No allergies to rabbits.
The ability to work effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary, regionally dispersed research team, and
carry out tasks under general direction from Scientific Researchers.
CSIRO is a values based organisation. You will need to demonstrate behaviours aligned to our values
of:
 Integrity of Excellent Science
 Trust & Respect
 Creative Spirit
 Delivering on Commitments
 Health, Safety & Sustainability
Other special requirements:
To be eligible for this position you must be willing and able to participate in weekend and public
holiday rosters.
Other Information:
How to Apply
Please apply for this position online at www.csiro.au/careers. You may be asked to provide additional
information (online) relevant to the selection criteria. If so, then responding will enhance your
application so please take the time to provide relevant succinct answers. Applicants who do not provide
the information when requested may not be considered.
If you experience difficulties applying online call 1300 301 509 and someone will be able to assist you.
Outside business hours please email: csiro-careers@csiro.au.
Referees: If you do not already have the names and contact details of two previous supervisors or
academic/ professional referees included in your resume/CV please add these before uploading your CV.
Contact: If after reading the selection documentation you require further information please contact:
Dr Tanja Strive via email: Tanja.Strive@csiro.au or phone: 02 6246 4176
Please do not email your application directly to Tanja Strive. Applications received via this method will
not be considered.
About CSIRO
Australia is founding its future on science and innovation. Its national science agency, the
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) is a powerhouse of ideas,
technologies and skills for building prosperity, growth, health and sustainability. It serves governments,
industries, business and communities across the nation.
Find out more! www.csiro.au.
CSIRO Health and Biosecurity
Working with our partners, we're assembling strong multidisciplinary research teams to tackle major
national and international health and biosecurity challenges. In doing so we're protecting the health of
our farming sector, environment, people, and our way of life.
Find out more: http://www.csiro.au/en/Research/BF