VETERINARY LABORATORY MANAGER

DEFINITION

This is supervisory and administrative veterinary work for the Department of Agriculture in the management of a complex animal health laboratory.

An employee in this class is responsible for planning, organizing, directing and evaluating the operation of a veterinary laboratory. Work includes assigning and coordinating the work of professional and technical laboratory employees in the performance of serological, histopathological and bacteriological tests in support of animal health programs for the identification, control and/or eradication of livestock diseases. In addition, the employee conducts complex diagnostic laboratory analyses and necropsy procedures. Supervision is provided by the Veterinary Epidemiologist or other designated superior; however, the employee exercises independence and initiative in the management of the laboratory within established guidelines.

Any one position may not involve all of the specified duties or knowledges, skills and abilities, nor are the listed examples exhaustive.

EXAMPLES OF WORK

Assigns and coordinates professional and technical laboratory staff in the performance of serological and bacteriological tests for livestock diseases such as brucellosis, pseudorabies, equine infectious anemia, pullorum and tuberculosis; reviews recording and reporting procedures.

Organizes laboratory functions to ensure operational efficiency and effectiveness; identifies equipment and supply needs; prepares and submits purchase requisitions for approval.

Analyzes samples, performs necropsies and diagnoses livestock diseases; consults with district and private veterinarians relating to treatment of infected animals.

Interprets and applies animal health statutes and regulations relating to livestock disease identification, control and/or eradication; provides input and feedback to superiors concerning the development and implementation of regulations, policies and procedures.

Provides information and assistance to livestock owners and producers, market operators, private veterinarians and other interested parties concerning animal health programs and policies and the services provided by the laboratory.

Provides initial orientation and training for new professional and technical laboratory staff; provides in-service training relating to changes in statutes, regulations, policies or laboratory procedures.

Prepares laboratory budget recommendations; administers approved budget.

Provides administrative support and advice to superiors on issues and developments pertaining to animal health laboratory practices, procedures and functions.

Performs other related work as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of veterinary medicine.

Thorough knowledge of the practices and methods of veterinary laboratory technology, including the basic principles of chemistry, microbiology, serology, bacteriology and histopathology.

Thorough knowledge of the practices and procedures used to control the spread of contagious and infectious livestock diseases.

Thorough knowledge of state and federal animal health statutes, regulations, and policies.

Working knowledge of the principles of effective supervision and training.

Ability to train, supervise and evaluate laboratory staff in proper work methods and procedures.

Ability to operate, maintain and instruct others in the operation of instruments and equipment used in a veterinary laboratory.

Ability to evaluate laboratory operations to ensure the accuracy and consistency of reported test results.

Ability to communicate effectively and prepare complete and concise reports.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, livestock owners and producers, private veterinarians, other state and federal officials and the general public.

Ability to work varying schedules in the performance of assigned duties.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS

(The following entrance requirements are used to admit or reject applicants for merit system examinations, or may be used to evaluate applicants for employment in positions not requiring selection from merit system registers. When applicable, equivalent substitution will be allowed for deficiencies in experience or education.)

Three years of experience as a veterinarian involving the care and treatment of large animals; and graduation from an accredited school of veterinary medicine.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

Ability to obtain a license to practice veterinary medicine in the State of Missouri.

(Eff. 10/1/92)