Veterinary Diagnostic Pathologist- Bozeman

To be considered for Department of Livestock positions, applicants must apply and submit any required application materials through the State of Montana Careers Website .gov.

This recruitment is posted as 'open until filled' with a first review of applicants on January 28th, 2026.

• 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.

The Montana Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (MVDL) seeks applications for a diagnostic Anatomic Pathologist position. MVDL exists as a bureau within the Animal Health and Food Safety Division of the Montana Department of Livestock, and is a full-service, AAVLD-accredited veterinary diagnostic laboratory. The laboratory performs approximately 170,000 tests per year on a wide variety of domestic and non-domestic animal species. For more information on the laboratory, please contact: mvdl.

Although not formally associated with Montana State University, MVDL is located on the MSU campus, and there are opportunities for interactions with university faculty and students, depending on interest. MVDL is a relatively small diagnostic lab, but is poised for growth, with multiple current and upcoming advances in client service and outreach. MVDL is currently constructing a new, state-of-the-art diagnostic laboratory building with expected completion in April 2026.

Loan repayment (competitive through USDA VMLRP) has been provided for veterinary professionals at the laboratory in the past, and new employees would also be eligible for this program.

We seek applicants with a strong interest in diagnostic pathology and client service, as well as demonstrated experience and confidence in veterinary pathology and accurate, timely diagnosis. Upon joining our team, the successful candidate will perform gross and histologic pathology evaluations and interpretations, participate in client consultation, and potentially provide supervision and oversight for the histology and clinical pathology sections of the laboratory.

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.

Our work matters! To learn more about the Department of Livestock, visit our website .gov.

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.

Education, Experience and Licensure requirements:

• A DVM or equivalent degree and eligibility for licensure to practice veterinary medicine in the State of Montana within 6 months of hire.
• Specialty board certification in anatomic pathology by the American College of Veterinary Pathologists (ACVP) or board eligibility.
• Relevant experience working as a diagnostic veterinary pathologist.
• Prior experience where excellence in written and oral communication is expected.
• Other combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

* 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.