Veterinarian Microbiologist- Section Head- Bozeman
State of MontanaState government does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth or medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, creed, political beliefs or affiliation, veteran status, military service, retaliation, or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant.
To be considered for Department of Livestock positions, applicants must apply and submit any required application materials through the State of Montana Careers Website at Statecareers.mt.gov.
This recruitment is posted as 'open until filled' with a first review of applicants on December 16, 2025.
Materials Required of Applicants: Cover Letter, Resume, Professional References---(3)
About this Opportunity\: Lead Diagnostic Excellence in Big Sky Country!
Are you a visionary Veterinary Microbiologist ready to lead a high-impact diagnostic section in one of America's most desirable locations? This is your opportunity as we seek applicants with demonstrated interest and expertise in multiple subfields of diagnostic veterinary microbiology, as well as management experience.
The Montana Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (MVDL), an AAVLD-accredited, full-service laboratory, is seeking a Veterinary Microbiologist Section Head to lead our microbiology, Virology, serology and molecular diagnostics sections in the laboratory. You will join the Animal Health and Food Safety Division of the Montana Department of Livestock at a pivotal moment, as we transition into a new, state-of-the-art diagnostic facility adjacent to our current location on the MSU campus.
The laboratory performs approximately 170,000 tests per year on a wide variety of domestic and non-domestic animal species, making this position a critical stakeholder in Montana's animal health infrastructure across the state. For more information on the laboratory, please contact\: mvdl@mt.gov .
As a manager/section head, the Veterinary Microbiologist Section Head will play critical role in providing leadership guidance, and support to their team. 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 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.
Core Competencies & Impact (What You Will Do)
This role requires a unique blend of Scientific Expertise, Operational Leadership, and Collaborative Communication. You will manage 8 direct reports and serve as the primary technical authority for the lab's core diagnostic capabilities.
Scientific & Technical Leadership
Diagnostic Mastery\: Provide authoritative subject matter expertise and technical oversight across Microbiology, Virology, Serology, and Molecular Diagnostics sections
Assay Innovation\: Identify, research, and coordinate the development and validation of new testing assays and cutting-edge equipment to continually enhance MVDL's service offerings.
Quality & Compliance\: Troubleshoot, review, and interpret complex technical data, non-conformances, and performance metrics. Actively participate in the development and rigorous revision of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure full compliance with MVDL Quality Management System and AAVLD accreditation requirements.
Expert Proficiency\: Demonstrate a deep, practical understanding of a wide array of diagnostic modalities, including:
Molecular\: RT-PCR and other nucleic acid amplification technologies.
Classical/Culture\: Bacterial and fungal culture, antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
Serology\: ELISA, antibody titer testing, complement fixation, and agglutination assays.
People & Operational Management
Team Leadership\: Hire, mentor, manage, and assess the performance of 8 technical staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, respect, and professionalism that drives high team morale and quality service.
Operational Oversight\: Manage employee work schedules and serve as the initial point of contact for employee questions and concerns.
Mentorship & Training\: Provide supervision, mentorship, and structured training for staff, volunteers, fellows, and veterinary students, cultivating the next generation of veterinary diagnosticians.
Strategic Communication & Outreach
NAHLN/Disease Response\: Lead and participate in proficiency testing, training, and swift response protocols for National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) activities and state/federally regulated animal disease surveillance programs.
Stakeholder Consultation (DVM-Required)\: For DVM candidates, provide expert client consultation to submitting veterinarians and livestock producers, offering clinical context, interpreting complex test results, and guiding effective diagnostic planning.
Agency Coordination\: Maintain regular and proactive communication with the State Veterinarian’s office regarding reportable disease detections and ongoing disease investigations.
Reasons to work for the Montana Department of Livestock: Our work matters! We are proud of the work we do, to find out more about the Department of Livestock visit our website at Liv.mt.gov or click HERE.
Your Total Rewards Package as a State of Montana Employee\:
When you work for the State of Montana, the compensation for your hard work is more than just a paycheck. Our robust total rewards package invests in your long-term well-being and success. Other Benefits include\:
Health Coverage\: Comprehensive health, dental, vision, life insurance coverage, flexible spending accounts, and EAP.
Retirement\: Choice between two retirement plans with a strong employer contribution (8.73% - 9.07% of your annual salary).
Work/Life Balance\: A combination of 38 paid days off a year (vacation, sick leave, and holidays). Partial telework or hybrid schedules may be available.
Career Growth\: Significant opportunities for career progression, training, and professional development.
Financial Benefits\: Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) and potential longevity raises with continuous service.
On-Site Benefits\: Free telehealth and access to free employee medical clinics through our medical plan.
This position may be eligible for a statutory base pay increase effective on July 1, 2026.
Why Bozeman? Work Hard. Play Harder.
The Bozeman area consistently ranks as a premier place to live, offering a perfect blend of a friendly, vibrant college-town atmosphere and unparalleled access to the Rocky Mountains and world-class outdoor recreation (skiing, hiking, fishing, and more). If you seek professional challenge alongside an exceptional quality of life, this is your chance.
Qualifications- Minimum Requirements:
Education, Experience and Licensure requirements:
A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and relevant, demonstrated experience working in the field of veterinary microbiology.
Licensure\: Ability to obtain Montana Veterinary Licensure within 6 months of hire.
Proven prior experience that required the provision of accurate, articulate written and verbal communication to professional and public stakeholders.
Preferred Qualifications -Competitive Candidates Will Have\:
Board certification (or eligibility for certification) in Veterinary Microbiology by the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists (ACVM).
2-5 years of progressive, hands-on experience in a veterinary diagnostic laboratory.
Proven prior management, Supervisory or Leadership role on a technical/scientific team, demonstrating the ability to manage performance, schedules, and professional development.
The State of Montana does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9.