Position Title: Vet Laboratory Scientist

Employee Classification: Vet Laboratory Scientist

College/Division: New Mexico Dept of Agriculture

Department: 181300-NMDA VETERINARY DIAGNOSTIC SVC

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Location: NMSU satellite location

Offsite Location (if applicable): Albuquerque, New Mexico

Target Hourly/Salary Rate:  48,332.54

Appointment Full-time Equivalency:  1.0

Exempt or Non-Exempt:  Exempt

Summary:  New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) works for the benefit of the state’s citizens and supports the viability of agriculture and affiliated industries. NMDA promotes food protection, a uniform, and fair marketplace, and global marketing and economic development; supports the beneficial use of natural resources; and works cooperatively with public and private sector entities. Opportunities for excellence abound, and NMDA staff dedicate themselves to proactive service in fulfilling the department’s mission. Each division plays an important role in carrying out the goals and objectives. Our rich agricultural history, culture, and traditions are addressed through new and innovative approaches using the latest in science, technology, and economic strategies. In New Mexico, we contribute to the safest and most affordable, and nutritious food supply on the globe.

NMDA is a constitutional agency organized under the Board of Regents of New Mexico State University (NMSU). This unique relationship creates efficiencies and opportunities for New Mexico’s food and agriculture sector as well as service and outreach opportunities for NMSU, making NMDA an integral part of the university. NMDA/NMSU is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.

Classification Summary:
Performs basic tasks for the diagnosis and control of contagious and infectious diseases of livestock, poultry, and other animals. Assists in administration of laws and regulations regarding animal disease control, quarantines and the interstate and intrastate movement of livestock and in conducting diagnostic tests; Has primary responsibility for the coordination of survey examinations and related activities of livestock disease control and eradication within an assigned area of the state.

Classification Standard Duties:
Prepares laboratory specimens and conduct analyses. Assists in the diagnosis and control of disease problems in animals. Reports results to supervisors. Plans, organizes, and directs the development, coordination and implementation of new and existing disease, quality assurance, and animal welfare programs. Assures compliance with government policies, programs, and regulations. Assists in necropsy procedures and other areas as needed and requested. Assists with the performance of surveys, examinations and other related activities of livestock disease control and eradication within an assigned area of the state. May supervise lower level staff or technicians. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency
Required Education:Bachelor's degree in a related field.; Required Experience:Three (3) years of experience directly related to the standard duties as outlined.; Equivalency:None; Required Certification/License:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE:Knowledge of: university and department policies and procedures; livestock and agricultural sector in New Mexico and the United States; principles of scientific investigation; state and federal laws and regulations.; SKILLS:Skill in: Short- and long-range planning; problem analysis and resolution; report preparation and presentation; public contact and relations; research methods; Good Laboratory Practices; quality assurance.; ABILITIES:Ability to: Direct, evaluate, train, and supervise the work of assigned personnel; communicate effectively in written and oral form; develop and maintain effective working relationships; maintain accurate and orderly records; use independent judgment and initiative; organize and direct several activities; analyze and evaluate information; operate a computer.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
This job requires a strong background in molecular biology, specifically Real Time PCR and Conventional PCR. This position will be involved with the diagnosis of diseases in animals, reports results to supervisors, assures compliance with government policies, programs, and regulations. This position also requires proficiency in working under an ISO/IEC 17025 certified quality management system, assists in other area areas of the lab as needed, and performs related duties as required.

Preferred Qualifications

Special Requirements of the Position

Department Contact:  Cheryl Mason-Herrera, 646-7523,cmason@nmda.nmsu.edu

Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon funding

Bargaining Unit Eligibility: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Standard Work Schedule: Shift: Other Shift

If Not a Standard Work Schedule: 

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work is performed in an interior medical/clinical environment.

Physical Effort: Light physical effort. Effort applies to no more than two (2) hours per day.

Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 10 pounds or some standing or walking.

Risk: Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.