Vivarium Operations Associate I

About the role

The Comparative Medicine department of Novartis' BioMedical Research is looking for an experienced and motivated animal caretaker to work flexibly across both experimental animal care and breeding. The role covers professional care and husbandry of laboratory rodents and support for research activities, in compliance with animal welfare legislation, quality standards, hygiene requirements, HSE regulations and SOPs. It is based onsite in Basel, Switzerland, and relocation support is not offered.

Key responsibilities

• Daily care, husbandry and health monitoring of laboratory animals, and monitoring of housing and cage systems
• Cleaning and disinfection of animal housing areas, cage materials and equipment
• Documenting observations and unusual events, and complying with animal welfare, hygiene, HSE and SOP requirements
• Supporting research groups in experimental animal care and advising laboratory personnel on husbandry and housing systems
• Caring for breeding colonies, performing daily breeding and health checks, and carrying out routine breeding and husbandry tasks independently
• Working closely with responsible teams to ensure reliable management of breeding colonies

Required profile

• Completed vocational training as an Animal Caretaker or a comparable qualification
• Practical experience handling small and laboratory animals, and in breeding and/or husbandry of laboratory animals
• Willingness to work in an animal facility involving radioactive activities
• English written and verbal communication skills (German a plus)
• Willingness to work weekends and public holidays as part of a 365-day operation

Required skills

• Reliable, accurate and independent working style
• Good teamwork and communication skills
• Flexibility and willingness to work across different functional areas
• Advantage: LTK-1 module

What we offer

• Expected annual base salary range of CHF 65,870 to CHF 122,330
• Possible performance-based bonus and long-term equity awards
• Insurance plans, retirement plans, wellbeing resources and global recognition programs
• Flexible and hybrid working options where possible, and at least 14 weeks of paid parental leave