State Veterinarian

Class Concept

Work in this class involves planning and directing a program designed to control and eradicate a variety of contagious and infectious diseases among livestock and poultry. Work assignments, which are in terms of the objectives of the division's work program, result from discussions with an administrative superior. State laws, departmental policies, and the principles of veterinary medicine guide the incumbent in the execution of duties. Work in this position includes the development of work procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of animal diseases and for the education of livestock and poultry producers in the value and techniques of preventive veterinary medicine and proper livestock management. An employee in this class must interpret and apply, without technical review, a variety of laws and administrative regulations which govern the quarantine and treatment of diseased livestock and the operation of livestock markets and slaughter houses throughout the state. Work is evaluated by an administrative superior on the basis of the effectiveness of the veterinary program in controlling and eradicating contagious and infectious diseases among livestock and poultry within the state.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of the principles and techniques of veterinary medicine, of the principles and practices of proper livestock and poultry management, and of state and federal laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to the livestock industry.
• Ability to diagnose a variety of animal and poultry diseases and to prescribe medical treatment or management methods which will control or eradicate the condition.
• Ability to instruct livestock and poultry producers in the proper methods of controlling and eradicating animal diseases.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with livestock and poultry producers, market operators, and the general public.
• Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written norm.
• Ability to direct and supervise staff in regulatory activities.

Minimum Education and Experience

Licensed or eligible for licensure to practice veterinary medicine in the State of North Carolina and four years of experience in the practice of veterinary medicine, including one year of supervisory experience.