Purpose
The Comparative Medicine Training Specialist serves as a critical resource supporting Comparative Medicine operations, compliance, and training programs across AbbVie’s California research sites, including Irvine and the AbbVie Bay Area (ABA) campus in South San Francisco. This position is responsible for leading training initiatives, ensuring training compliance and personnel competency, administering key operational and learning systems, and supporting facility readiness and regulatory compliance activities.
The Training Specialist acts as the primary Comparative Medicine trainer for California operations, partnering closely with Comparative Medicine leadership, researchers, Environmental Health & Safety (EHS), Facilities, and other stakeholders to support safe, compliant, and efficient in vivo research activities.
Responsibilities
Training Leadership and Program Management
Serves as the primary Comparative Medicine trainer for California research sites, including Irvine and the ABA campus.
Develops, coordinates, and delivers instructor-led, hands-on, and technical training programs related to laboratory animal science, animal care and use, vivarium operations, and research procedures, leveraging innovative educational technologies to enhance adult learning outcomes. This may include but is not limited to:
Blended and hybrid learning models: combining in-person, hands-on vivarium instruction with virtual instructor-led sessions (VILT) to maximize flexibility and reach across sites.
Learning Management System (LMS) integration: delivering microlearning modules, e-learning courses, and on-demand video libraries that support self-paced, just-in-time learning and competency tracking.
Gamification and interactive assessments: using scenario-based quizzes, branching simulations, and digital badging/credentials to reinforce knowledge retention and validate competency.
Mobile learning tools: providing quick-reference job aids, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) videos, and refresher content accessible on tablets/mobile devices at the point of need in the vivarium.
Adaptive learning platforms: using AI-driven content sequencing to tailor training pathways based on individual learner proficiency and role requirements.
Data analytics and learning dashboards: tracking training completion, competency assessments, and skill gaps to continuously improve program effectiveness and regulatory compliance documentation.
Recorded procedural video libraries and screen-capture demonstrations: supporting consistent technique standardization and easy onboarding for new staff.
Partners with Comparative Medicine leadership and functional stakeholders to assess training needs, establish training priorities, and support workforce development initiatives.
Coordinates training schedules, manages training requests, and ensures completion of required onboarding and continuing education activities.
Evaluates trainee competencies and collaborates with managers and subject matter experts to ensure personnel are appropriately qualified to perform assigned responsibilities.
Maintains training records and documentation to support regulatory compliance, audit readiness, and operational excellence.
Supports global training initiatives and contributes technical expertise to Comparative Medicine learning programs and best practices.
Operational Support and Compliance
Partners with Comparative Medicine leadership, EHS, and Facilities to promote safe and compliant animal care and research operations.
Supports facility readiness for inspections, site visits, and accreditation activities, including USDA, AAALAC International, DEA, and internal compliance reviews.
Maintains awareness of evolving regulatory requirements, industry standards, and best practices related to laboratory animal science and animal welfare.
Identifies operational risks and training gaps and collaborates with leadership to develop and implement mitigation strategies.
Communicates operational issues, compliance concerns, and training program performance to site leadership as appropriate.
Vivarium Access and Facility Administration
Coordinates vivarium access requests, verifies training prerequisites, assigns required training, and conducts facility orientation programs.
Maintains accurate records associated with access authorization and training compliance.
Learning Systems Administration
Administers Comparative Medicine training curricula, training matrices, onboarding programs, and training assignments.
Serves as Global Super Administrator for the AALAS Learning Library, including user administration, training assignments, compliance monitoring, annual renewals, reporting, and stakeholder communications.
Supports maintenance and continuous improvement of training content and learning management processes.
Document and SOP Management
Coordinates review, revision, and publication of Comparative Medicine SOP procedures and related controlled documents.
Supports document governance activities, including version control, change management, and publication through approved quality systems.
Partners with subject matter experts to ensure procedures remain current, accurate, and compliant with applicable regulations and organizational standards.
Additional Responsibilities
Serves as a member of the Post Approval Monitoring (PAM) Committee.
Maintains Comparative Medicine distribution lists and communication resources.
Supports special projects, process improvement initiatives, and other operational activities as assigned.