Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory Technician- Bozeman

State of Montana•Bozeman, MT

2d•Onsite

About The Position

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, rtPCR, 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.

Requirements

BS or BA or equivalent/comparable science degree is required.
Two years veterinary diagnostic laboratory or relevant work experience is preferred.
Understanding of data interpretation, basics of veterinary disease, and quality system regulation is required.
Must be comfortable performing job duties in a laboratory environment where exposure to zoonotic disease agents may occur.
Must be aware of the risk of injury from chemical and/or biological hazards.
Verification of identity and eligibility to work in the United States and completion of Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9.
Participation in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility (effective March 30, 2026).

Nice To Haves

MS or PhD in a related science field is preferred.
Two years veterinary diagnostic laboratory or relevant work experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Performing in vitro nucleic acid amplification and detection according to established protocols to assist in the diagnosis of animal disease.
Expertly and consistently performing assays based on molecular biological techniques (e.g., extraction, rtPCR, genetic sequencing, etc.) in an accurate, comprehensive, and timely manner.
Interacting with veterinary and livestock producer clients for the purposes of clarifying sample submissions, test scheduling, and communication of test results.
Cross-training and assisting in the testing operations of other laboratory sections as dictated by test demand and seasonality.
Maintaining a safe laboratory environment via the use of personal protective equipment and implementation of best practices.

Benefits

Comprehensive health, dental, vision, life insurance coverage
Flexible spending accounts
EAP (Employee Assistance Program)
Choice between two retirement plans with a strong employer contribution (8.73% - 9.07% of your annual salary)
38 paid days off a year (vacation, sick leave, and holidays)
Partial telework or hybrid schedules may be available
Significant opportunities for career progression, training, and professional development
Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
Potential longevity raises with continuous service
Free telehealth and access to free employee medical clinics through our medical plan
Statutory base pay increase effective on July 1, 2026 (potential eligibility)