Description

The Montana Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (MVDL) seeks applications for a board-certified veterinary microbiologist position.  MVDL exists as a bureau within the Animal Health and Food Safety Division of the Montana Department of Livestock, and is a full-service, AAVLD-accredited veterinary diagnostic laboratory.  The laboratory performs approximately 170,000 tests per year on a wide variety of domestic and non-domestic animal species.

We seek applicants with demonstrated interest and expertise in multiple subfields of veterinary microbiology, as well as management experience.  Upon joining our team, the successful candidate will provide supervision and oversight to the microbiology, parasitology, virology, serology, and PCR sections of the laboratory, as well as coordinating research and development on new test offerings for these sections.  The candidate will also engage in client consultation with submitting veterinarians, and may serve as laboratory safety officer.  This position is expected to lead by example in order to cultivate a culture of collaboration, respect, and professionalism, all of which will enhance team morale, and provide quality service to the people of the State of Montana. This position has approximately 8 direct reports, where typical duties include but are not limited to hiring, managing and assessing employee performance, managing employee work schedules, and responding to employee questions and concerns. 

MVDL is a relatively small diagnostic lab, but is poised for growth, with multiple current and upcoming advances in client service and outreach.  We expect to complete construction and transition into a brand-new, state-of-the-art laboratory facility in Spring 2026.  

Although not formally associated with Montana State University, MVDL is located on the MSU campus, and there are opportunities for interactions with university faculty and students, depending on interest.  Loan repayment (competitive through USDA VMLRP) has been provided for veterinary professionals at the laboratory in the past, and new employees would also be eligible for this program.  

The Bozeman area is consistently ranked among the most desirable places to live in the nation.  A small, friendly, college-town atmosphere paired with many conveniences typically only available in much larger cities, as well as an abundance of nearby outdoor recreation, make this region an ideal place to settle.

Requirements

Qualified applicants will have (1) a DVM or equivalent degree, and (2) the ability to obtain MT veterinary licensure within 6 months of hire, and (3) relevant experience working as a veterinary microbiologist.  Excellence in written and oral communication is expected.

Specialty board certification in microbiology by the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists (ACVM), or board-eligibility, is preferred.