The postholder will provide support for the ante and post-mortem examination of large animals and poultry through the sampling, and humane euthanasia of livestock using appropriate methods. You will also assist with the location/sampling of tissues as required by experimental protocols and the safe transfer and submission of samples from the PM room to the relevant laboratory facilities.
As part of the role, you will be expected to maintain the high standards for health and safety requirements within the department and implement APHA policies to ensure required compliance of containment facilities and staff. You will act as a role model and ensure that all required staff training is undertaken.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Perform ante and post-mortem examination and tissue sampling procedures on a range of livestock species in specialist high biocontainment facilities (ACDP3/SAPO4) including humane euthanasia of livestock using a range of methods, home office licensed procedures (e.g. blood sampling) under A(SP)A, and preparation, cleaning and disinfection of post- mortem facilities and equipment.
Assist with the management of the post-mortem facility booking system, provide supervision and training for staff (all grades) who are undertaking biocontainment training or working within the facility.
Collection, unloading and storage of animals, equipment and consumables.
Support the building officer by acting as Deputy Building Officer assisting in the monitoring of the facility operational parameters and liaising with the facilities service provider and external equipment and facility maintenance contractors. Undertake deputy NACWO (Named Animal Care and Welfare Officer) responsibilities for the facility, raising any animal welfare concerns with the local NACWO.
Line and/or functional management of staff, supervision of students, visitors and contractors within high containment areas, as required. Maintain knowledge of APHA's diversity policy and implement it within the team.
Management of laboratory and facility equipment, including calibration, monitoring and routine maintenance. Maintenance and updating of local computer-based sample management systems in compliance with Quality accreditation.
Perform all duties in accordance with Pathology & APHA Safety and Quality Policies including GLP, ISO17025, ISO9001, EURL procedures. Review, write/edit local SOPs, risk assessments and participate in Quality and safety audits. Performance of Room Officer duties including ensuring the work environment is clean, tidy and professionally managed.