Apprenticeship training course

Animal technologist (level 3)

Working with laboratory animals.

• Qualification level: 3 ; Equivalent to A level.
• Typical duration: 24 months
• Apprenticeship category: Health and science
• Maximum funding: £10,000 ; Maximum amount government will fund ; for apprenticeship training.
• Also known as:
  • Animal technician
  • Animal technologist
  • Animal welfare officer
  • Laboratory inspector
• Skills:
  Skills an apprentice will learn

  • Plan scientific procedures to meet objectives and deadlines. Identify resources, equipment and consumables required for the tasks.
  • Handle, sex and health check the species in accordance with animal care and welfare standards appropriate to the current legislation and organisational policies.
  • Recognise and report the clinical signs of ill health, stress and pain in the species under their care.
  • Conduct scientific and animal husbandry procedures in accordance with health and safety and animal welfare legislation.
  • Handle and restrain animals in a manner that ensures high standards of animal welfare and in accordance with good scientific practice. For example, appropriate animal restraint, manipulation of equipment used to administer or withdraw biological samples.
  • Carry out scientific tasks following Standard Operating Procedures or other relevant risk management systems.
  • Maintain the work environment, take bio-security measures and follow hygiene controls.
  • Record and store scientific outcomes in accordance with data protection regulations and company procedures.
  • Identify ethical responsibilities, best practice and obligations, including the application of the 3Rs (Reduction, Replacement and Refinement).
  • Analyse, interpret and evaluate data (e.g. breeding or environmental data) and identify outcomes requiring further investigation seeking advice of senior colleagues where appropriate.
  • Identify potential problems completing scientific procedures, troubleshooting to resolve the issue or escalating accordingly. Document and communicate actions in line with company protocols.
  • Communicate effectively using a full range of skills and tools: speaking; listening; writing (including the use of digital or paper-based record keeping systems); body language; presentation.
  • Safely transport physical resources within the work area.
  • Maintain stock levels of resources, equipment and consumables and taking into account environmental sustainability.
  • Ensure that equipment is in good working order and calibrated where needed.
  • Identify process improvements and implement changes or make recommendations in line with organisation procedures.
  • Keep up to date with developments in best practice and advances in technology and share best practice.

Full information on Animal technologist (level 3) is available from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.

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