O 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 June 5, 2026. Materials Required of Applicants: Cover Letter. Resume. Professional References- References will be required of finalist applicants prior to a job offer being made, however are not required as part of the initial application process at this time. About this Opportunity:This is a laboratory technician position performing in vitro nucleic acid amplification and detection according to established protocols to assist in the diagnosis of animal disease. This employee is expected to expertly and consistently perform assays based on molecular biological techniques (e.g., extraction, rt. PCR, genetic sequencing, etc.) in an accurate, comprehensive, and timely manner. An understanding of data interpretation, basics of veterinary disease, and quality system regulation is required for this position. This position is expected to occasionally interact with veterinary and livestock producer clients for the purposes of clarifying sample submissions, test scheduling, and communication of test results. The opportunity to cross-train and assist in the testing operations of other laboratory sections exists as dictated by test demand and seasonality. The successful applicant must be comfortable performing job duties in a laboratory environment where exposure to zoonotic disease agents may occur. Employees must be aware of the risk of injury from chemical and/or biological hazards and take appropriate precautions to maintain a safe environment via the use of personal protective equipment and implementation of best practices. Repetitive motion, long periods of standing or sitting, and some lifting may be required. Weekend or extended work may be required in the event of a disease outbreak or other urgent situation but is not routine or the expectation. The Montana Veterinary Diagnostics Laboratory (MVDL) is a bureau of the Animal Health and Food Safety Division of the Montana Department of Livestock. The laboratory is located within the Marsh Laboratory building on the Montana State University campus in Bozeman, Montana. The MVLD serves as the only accredited, full-service veterinary diagnostic laboratory in Montana. Why Bozeman? Work Hard. Play Harder. 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. If you seek professional challenge alongside an exceptional quality of life, this is your chance. 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. Qualifications- Minimum Requirements:Education, Experience and Licensure requirements:Education: BS or BA or equivalent/comparable science degree is required. MS or PhD in a related science field is preferred. Experience: Two years veterinary diagnostic laboratory or relevant work experience is preferred. - 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. - Effective March 30, 2026, this agency participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here,