Milk Laboratory Technician

Qualifications (Education and Experience)

Qualification is typically met through a combination of:

• A Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology or a related science field and/or;

• Prior equivalent experience in laboratory/microbiological techniques.

• 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.

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

This recruitment is posted as open until filled with a first review of applicants on December 23 2025.

Materials Required of Applicants:Cover Letter Resume Professional References---(3)

About this Opportunity: Do you love science Are you passionate about laboratory work This could be an opportunity to work in a laboratory section playing an important public health role in a brand new state-of -the-art laboratory facility in one of Americas most desirable locations.

The Montana Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (MVDL) is a bureau of the Animal Health and Food Safety Division of the Montana Department of Livestock within the executive branch of Montana state government. The laboratory is currently housed in one facility within the Marsh Laboratory building on the Montana State University campus in Bozeman Montana and serves as the only accredited full-service veterinary diagnostic laboratory in Montana. The Montana Central Milk Testing Laboratory is a laboratory section of the MVDL.

The Milk Laboratory Technician is a technical position encompassing examination of dairy samples to include microbiological analysis chemical analysis antibiotic residue testing and chemical/physical characterization. Job functions also include completion of quality control measures production of sanitarian and client reports monitoring of section technical materials and environmental conditions maintenance of section equipment review and revision of section procedures proficiency testing participation and coordination and support of quality system and section process to ensure the compliant fulfillment of laboratory objectives. Paying strict attention to safety integrity dependability analytical thinking quality control record detail regulatory and quality system compliance industry standards and client customer service is paramount to this position.

Equipment used to complete work duties are typical of microbiology laboratory settings including but not limited to analytical balances autoclaves biological safety cabinets centrifuges incubators pH meters stirrer/hot plates and water purification system. Software applications used to complete work duties may include a Laboratory Information Management System Microsoft Office web portals State of Montana Talent application and proprietary equipment software programs.

This position does not supervise other positions. This position does not conduct performance evaluations. This position is supervised by the Veterinary Pathology Section Head.

Reasons to work for the Montana Department of Livestock:

Our work matters! We are proud of the work we do to find out more about the Department of Livestock visit our websiteat or click HERE.

Your Total Rewards Package as a State of Montana Employee:

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.

Why Bozeman

Work Hard. Play Harder: The Bozeman area consistently ranks as a premier place to live offering a perfect blend of a friendly vibrant college-town atmosphere and unparalleled access to the Rocky Mountains and world-class outdoor recreation (skiing hiking fishing and more). If you seek professional challenge alongside an exceptional quality of life this is your chance.