07/01/1993 53320

VETERINARY LABORATORY DIAGNOSTICIAN

DEFINITION: This is professional veterinary work in performing animal and avian disease diagnostic services in the Animal Disease Diagnosis Division in the Department of Agriculture.

An employee in this class conducts veterinary laboratory examinations for the detection and diagnosis of diseases of animals and birds. Work also involves developing and performing new laboratory diagnostic tests and procedures. The employee participates in the antemortem and/or postmortem examination of animals and birds to detect and diagnose diseases. Work may involve supervision over laboratory technicians and laboratory assistants. Work is performed independently but in accordance with standard scientific laboratory procedures. Supervision is received through regular consultation with the Chief of the Animal Disease Diagnosis Division or from the laboratory managerial staff.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Performs veterinary laboratory examinations for the detection and diagnosis of diseases in animals and birds; and directs and supervises assisting laboratory employees.

Examines specimens to determine evidence or presence of disease; maintains control specimens and standards; supervises and trains subordinate employees and assigns work; and prepares reports of test results.

Maintains integrity of diagnostic samples and adheres to quality assurance program.

Oversees the laboratory work for receiving and processing animal and poultry samples including the recording and reporting of all related information.

Assists with managing employee safety program in the laboratory.

Performs other related duties as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the science of veterinary medicine.

Knowledge of the principles, practices and laboratory techniques used in veterinary laboratory diagnostic work.

Knowledge of modern developments in veterinary pathology.

Ability to conduct laboratory and physical examinations and make accurate animal and bird disease diagnoses.

Ability to plan, direct and control the work of technical and professional staff.

Ability to plan and direct laboratory diagnostic procedures.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year of experience as a veterinarian in the research and/or diagnosis of animal or bird diseases;

                                                                                                                                                                or

Any equivalent combination of experience and training.