Cornell University
CALS- Teaching Support Specialist I- Animal Science
Cornell University, Northeast Ithaca, New York, United States
Teaching Support Specialist I
The Opportunity
As a university founded to be a place where “…any person can find instruction in any study,” inclusion and belonging are at the core of our values and mission. We strive to be a welcoming, caring, healthy, and equitable community where students, faculty, and staff with different backgrounds, perspectives, abilities, and experiences can learn, innovate, and work in an environment of respect, and feel empowered to engage in any community conversation. As a member of the Cornell University community, it is important to recognize our shared responsibility to each other to cultivate a culture of inclusion for all. Cornell Core values.
As an individual contributor you will model and support a culture of inclusion, belonging, and wellbeing and continually seek to understand how your role, behaviors, and actions impact the success of this culture.
While position responsibilities vary greatly, the Skills for Success and Leadership Skills for Success are foundational to what is expected of every employee and leader working at Cornell. These skills are essential for individual and organizational success. Staff Skills for Success; Leadership Skills for Success.
About the College The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University’s second largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world‑renowned research, education, and outreach. Our focus on three overlapping concerns is: 1) understanding of the world’s complex, interlocking systems; 2) ensuring access to nutritious food and a healthy environment; and 3) supporting local people and communities worldwide.
The Department of Animal Science offers undergraduate and graduate programs on the biology and management of food, laboratory and companion animal species. Our research programs advance our understanding of animal biology and address local and global issues facing animal industries today.
Cornell University offers several courses that are intensive in terms of hands‑on activities in laboratories as well as large animal handling and management components. These courses include BIOAP 1100 – Domestic Animal Biology, ANSC 2650 – Equine Biology and Management, ANSC 2410 – Biology of Reproduction Lab, and ANSC 3450 -- Reproductive Physiology and Management of Dairy Cattle. Each course strives to offer the best possible learning experience for each student. A teaching support specialist is responsible for the maintenance and setup of laboratory exercises, coordination of animals and animal handling activities, and training on lab safety and chemical handling as required by CALS EHS.
Job Responsibilities • Develop course and instructional material and oversee operations of the teaching laboratories, teaching prep space, associated equipment, ordering, and coordination of equipment and space.
• Set up laboratories and demonstration materials in physiology courses.
• Coordinate animal use for biology and management courses.
• Maintain all lab and study center space in an orderly and clean manner.
• Order all lab and study center supplies and equipment.
• Attend TA lab training sessions and participate in training of TAs on procedures and equipment.
• Assist students with demonstration and lab materials.
• Supervise teaching assistants during lab sessions.
• Promote cooperation and a welcoming environment for all students.
• Collaborate with fellow Teaching Support Specialists within the department, providing mutual backup and coverage to ensure consistent support and continuity of service.
• Work flexible hours within the 39‑hour work week, including nights and weekends during Ezra’s Farm operations.
Success Factors
Takes initiative
Strong organizational skills
Effective collaborations
Clear communication
Problem solving
What We Need
Bachelor’s degree in animal science or physiology with 2‑4 years of experience.
Experience with biology and/or physiology teaching labs, including dissections of vertebrate tissues.
Experience handling a variety of livestock species including dairy and beef cattle, sheep, swine, horses, and chickens. Must express thoughts clearly, both orally and in writing.
Excellent planning, organization, time management, and interpersonal skills.
Must have a working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs.
Demonstrated ability to develop effective working relationships with students, faculty, and staff who have diverse backgrounds.
Ability to work in a team setting to create an inclusive, high‑quality, and respectful work environment to achieve departmental and university goals.
Must be able to work independently.
Must be personable, flexible, and take pride in work.
Must be able to work occasional evenings and weekends and be able to adapt to changing priorities, situations, and demands.
Possess the ability to multitask while meeting priorities with high‑quality results.
The ideal candidate will anticipate the needs of supervisors and students and have the initiative to take action. Familiarity with standard laboratory safety practices, waste disposal, and safe handling of hazardous chemicals. Familiarity with animal care, handling, and use guidelines and ability to follow approved protocols.
Some experience in teaching, instruction, or educational support—whether in formal, informal, or academic settings.
Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
If you have all those things, great! We have a few more things that we would prefer you to have, but it’s ok if you don’t.
Master’s degree with two to three years’ job‑related experience for teaching component and laboratory operation. Certification in artificial insemination of cattle desired.
Rewards and Benefits Cornell receives national recognition as an award‑winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, and sustainability.
Comprehensive health‑care options, generous retirement contributions, access to wellness programs, and employee discounts with local and national retail brands.
Health and personal leave, three weeks of vacation, 13 holidays, and two additional floating holidays for faith and tradition observance.
Tuition‑free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program, tuition aid for external education, and Cornell Children’s Tuition Assistance Program.
Full Total Rewards package.
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
EEO Statement Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world‑class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of “... any person ... any study.” No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy‑related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.
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As an individual contributor you will model and support a culture of inclusion, belonging, and wellbeing and continually seek to understand how your role, behaviors, and actions impact the success of this culture.
While position responsibilities vary greatly, the Skills for Success and Leadership Skills for Success are foundational to what is expected of every employee and leader working at Cornell. These skills are essential for individual and organizational success. Staff Skills for Success; Leadership Skills for Success.
About the College The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University’s second largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world‑renowned research, education, and outreach. Our focus on three overlapping concerns is: 1) understanding of the world’s complex, interlocking systems; 2) ensuring access to nutritious food and a healthy environment; and 3) supporting local people and communities worldwide.
The Department of Animal Science offers undergraduate and graduate programs on the biology and management of food, laboratory and companion animal species. Our research programs advance our understanding of animal biology and address local and global issues facing animal industries today.
Cornell University offers several courses that are intensive in terms of hands‑on activities in laboratories as well as large animal handling and management components. These courses include BIOAP 1100 – Domestic Animal Biology, ANSC 2650 – Equine Biology and Management, ANSC 2410 – Biology of Reproduction Lab, and ANSC 3450 -- Reproductive Physiology and Management of Dairy Cattle. Each course strives to offer the best possible learning experience for each student. A teaching support specialist is responsible for the maintenance and setup of laboratory exercises, coordination of animals and animal handling activities, and training on lab safety and chemical handling as required by CALS EHS.
Job Responsibilities • Develop course and instructional material and oversee operations of the teaching laboratories, teaching prep space, associated equipment, ordering, and coordination of equipment and space.
• Set up laboratories and demonstration materials in physiology courses.
• Coordinate animal use for biology and management courses.
• Maintain all lab and study center space in an orderly and clean manner.
• Order all lab and study center supplies and equipment.
• Attend TA lab training sessions and participate in training of TAs on procedures and equipment.
• Assist students with demonstration and lab materials.
• Supervise teaching assistants during lab sessions.
• Promote cooperation and a welcoming environment for all students.
• Collaborate with fellow Teaching Support Specialists within the department, providing mutual backup and coverage to ensure consistent support and continuity of service.
• Work flexible hours within the 39‑hour work week, including nights and weekends during Ezra’s Farm operations.
Success Factors
Takes initiative
Strong organizational skills
Effective collaborations
Clear communication
Problem solving
What We Need
Bachelor’s degree in animal science or physiology with 2‑4 years of experience.
Experience with biology and/or physiology teaching labs, including dissections of vertebrate tissues.
Experience handling a variety of livestock species including dairy and beef cattle, sheep, swine, horses, and chickens. Must express thoughts clearly, both orally and in writing.
Excellent planning, organization, time management, and interpersonal skills.
Must have a working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs.
Demonstrated ability to develop effective working relationships with students, faculty, and staff who have diverse backgrounds.
Ability to work in a team setting to create an inclusive, high‑quality, and respectful work environment to achieve departmental and university goals.
Must be able to work independently.
Must be personable, flexible, and take pride in work.
Must be able to work occasional evenings and weekends and be able to adapt to changing priorities, situations, and demands.
Possess the ability to multitask while meeting priorities with high‑quality results.
The ideal candidate will anticipate the needs of supervisors and students and have the initiative to take action. Familiarity with standard laboratory safety practices, waste disposal, and safe handling of hazardous chemicals. Familiarity with animal care, handling, and use guidelines and ability to follow approved protocols.
Some experience in teaching, instruction, or educational support—whether in formal, informal, or academic settings.
Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
If you have all those things, great! We have a few more things that we would prefer you to have, but it’s ok if you don’t.
Master’s degree with two to three years’ job‑related experience for teaching component and laboratory operation. Certification in artificial insemination of cattle desired.
Rewards and Benefits Cornell receives national recognition as an award‑winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, and sustainability.
Comprehensive health‑care options, generous retirement contributions, access to wellness programs, and employee discounts with local and national retail brands.
Health and personal leave, three weeks of vacation, 13 holidays, and two additional floating holidays for faith and tradition observance.
Tuition‑free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program, tuition aid for external education, and Cornell Children’s Tuition Assistance Program.
Full Total Rewards package.
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
EEO Statement Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world‑class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of “... any person ... any study.” No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy‑related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.
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