Veterinary Diagnostic Pathologist- Section Head

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 August 14, 2026.

Materials Required of Applicants: Cover Letter, Resume,

*Note on References: References will be required by any finalist applicants prior to receiving a formal offer of employment from the department, however are not required as part of the application process at this time.

About this Opportunity: Lead Diagnostic Excellence in Big Sky Country!

The Montana Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (MVDL) seeks applications for a diagnostic Anatomic Pathologist 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. For more information on the laboratory, please contact: mvdl@mt.gov or Human resources for the Department at Michael.Spatz2@mt.gov.

We seek applicants with a strong interest in diagnostic pathology and client service, as well as demonstrated experience and confidence in veterinary pathology and accurate, timely diagnosis. Upon joining our team, the successful candidate will perform gross and histologic pathology evaluations and interpretations, participate in client consultation, and coordinate ancillary testing on cases. This position will have supervisory responsibilities for one or more laboratory sections depending on interest and aptitude.

As a Manager/Section Sead with the Department, 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.

Scientific & Technical Leadership

Diagnostic Mastery: Provide authoritative subject matter expertise and technical oversight.

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.

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%25 - 9.07%25 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.

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. MVDL is a relatively small diagnostic lab, but is poised for growth, with multiple current and upcoming advances in client service and outreach. MVDL is currently constructing a new, state-of-the-art diagnostic laboratory building with expected completion in April 2026. 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.

Qualifications- Minimum Requirements

Education, Experience and Licensure requirements. Qualified applicants will have:

(1) A DVM or equivalent degree,

(2) Specialty board certification or board eligibility in anatomic pathology by the American College of Veterinary Pathologists (ACVP),

(3) Eligibility for licensure to practice veterinary medicine in the State of Montana within 6 months of hire, and

(4) Relevant experience working as a diagnostic veterinary pathologist. Excellence in written and oral communication is expected.