Veterinary Laboratories Director

Class Concept

An individual in this class is responsible for planning and directing a program of clinical examination of cattle, swine, and other livestock and poultry in order to aid State and County veterinarians and private practitioners in the diagnosis and treatment of various animal diseases. Work includes responsibility for directing a research program designed to aid in the control and eradication of animal diseases. In the performance of his duties, the employee is guided by departmental policies and by the principles of veterinary medicine and animal pathology. This employee is expected to determine the type and extent of diagnostic examinations required for various conditions and the laboratory procedures to be employed in the examination of livestock and fowl. Decisions made by this employee which pertain to the nature, cause, and significance of the maladies revealed as a result of examinations in the laboratory are final. Work is evaluated by the State Veterinarian on the basis of this employee's effectiveness in providing adequate diagnostic services to private practitioners and government employed veterinarians throughout 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 three years of experience in diagnostic laboratory work including one year of supervisory experience.