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The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Animal and Food Industry Services, is seeking a veterinarian to serve as a Veterinary Diagnostician for the Regional Animal Health Laboratory located in Harrisonburg, Virginia and to serve as Laboratory Director for the Regional Animal Health Laboratory located in Lynchburg, Virginia. This position provides gross pathology services on cases from all species, especially livestock and poultry, to diagnose disease; coordinates case results with submitting veterinarians, clients and staff; and reports disease status of the region for state, national, and international purposes; diagnoses disease in animals by necropsy and appropriate laboratory testing in support of the industry of agriculture, public health programs, and the citizens of the Commonwealth; and manages the overall functions of the diagnostic laboratory in Lynchburg: supervising staff and overseeing administrative and operational procedures. This position requires regular travel to Lynchburg and a state vehicle will be provided.

Requires a degree in Veterinary Medicine from an AVMA accredited college of veterinary medicine or certification by the AVMA Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates. Requires knowledge of and skills in veterinary pathology and diagnostic procedures related to the detection of disease in livestock, poultry and domestic animals. Experience in veterinary diagnostic medicine, food animal medicine and/or regulatory veterinary practice required. Comprehensive knowledge of the pathogenesis and manifestation of diseases in a wide range of animal species. Also needed are strong administrative and supervisory skills with the ability to evaluate, motivate, and coach employees; to promote and demonstrate strong teamwork and commitment to customer service; to work under stressful situations with diverse groups; and to work independently while simultaneously handling multiple tasks. Exceptional interpersonal and organizational skills, with effective strong written and oral communication skills, allowing for consultation and cooperation with veterinary diagnosticians, veterinary practitioners and laboratory clients are necessary. Ability to compose necropsy reports in a logical format that explains the findings in a useful way to both professional and lay readers. Familiarity with ISO 17025 accreditation standards preferred. The selected applicant must have and maintain a valid driver’s license with a driving record that reflects a sense of responsibility for highway safety. This position involves considerable bending, lifting, quick maneuvering and agility, as well as visual acuity; occasional evening/weekend work; and routine travel is required.