Laboratory Scientist

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is seeking a Laboratory Scientist I to join the Wildlife Health Laboratory within the Veterinary Services unit, located in Laramie. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge wildlife health work that directly supports conservation efforts across the state.

In this role, you’ll be part of a team delivering state-of-the-art wildlife disease diagnostics, surveillance, and research for the department, as well as collaborating with state and federal partners. Your work will play a key role in monitoring and protecting Wyoming’s wildlife populations, with a primary focus on chronic wasting disease and brucellosis.

This position offers a dynamic mix of laboratory and field work. You’ll perform a variety of diagnostic procedures using specialized equipment and techniques, while also having opportunities to assist with field sample collection from free-ranging wildlife. Daily responsibilities may include sample processing, diagnostic testing, data entry, reporting results, mapping using topographic software, assembling biological sample kits, and collecting samples in the field. Travel is required for field-based diagnostic work.

Benefits:
Seasonal temporary employees are eligible for health, dental, and vision insurance. The department contributes toward employee-only coverage, with options available for dependent and family coverage at an additional cost to the employee.

Human Resource Contact: Dezzaree Schott / dezzaree.schott@wyo.gov

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed in the job level.

• Logging and labeling blood and tissue samples using record-keeping/barcode software.
• Sample processing (e.g., cutting, weighing, centrifugation, pipetting).
• Sample testing using specialized laboratory procedures and equipment (e.g., microplate washers and readers, ribolysers, and thermocyclers).
• Conducts standard federal Bruce/la abortus serological tests.
• Microbiological culture of tissues and fluids for the isolation and identification of various respiratory pathogens.
• Data entry, management, and querying of databases, spreadsheets, and lab software. Compiles, analyzes, and disseminates laboratory results.
• Blood and tissue collection kit assembly and statewide dissemination to field personnel, researchers, and the public.
• Mapping of sample locations using topographic software.
• Travel is required for a sample collection from field specimens and carcass retrieval.
• Perform diagnostic assays for wildlife disease identification, including PCR, ELISA, FPA, and MAT.
• Develop, maintain, and adhere to standard operating procedures, quality control, nonconformance documentation, and corrective action reports on diagnostic assays and laboratory equipment to meet ISO 17025 and NAHLN accreditation requirements.
• Retrieval of big and trophy game carcasses and other wildlife species from various locations using a four-wheel-drive pickup and electric winch.
• Collection of specimens for diagnostic testing from carcasses or live animals under field conditions in adverse weather conditions and steep terrain.
• Assists with other duties as required.

Qualifications

PREFERENCES/**AGENCY REQUIREMENTS: 

Preference may be given to those with a Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, molecular biology, pre-veterinary science, biology, zoology, wildlife management, or another closely related field, plus at least one year of work experience in a diagnostic laboratory, research laboratory, or in health/disease. Other related training and experience will be evaluated for placement in this position. 

**Must have a valid driver’s license. 

KNOWLEDGE: 

• Knowledge of veterinary laboratory diagnostic techniques and excellent troubleshooting skills.
• Outstanding laboratory organizational skills in sample tracking through testing, reporting, and storage.
• Ability to be flexible in a time schedule to perform tasks in the laboratory and field to meet deadlines and complete casework in a timely manner.
• Ability to initiate daily tasks and work independently with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to adhere to rigid laboratory standard operating procedures and quality controls, as well as a working knowledge of QA/QC requirements of ISO-17025 I NAHLN / AAVLD.
• Computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite, proficient with word processing, databases, and spreadsheets.
• Knowledge of topographic software programs.
• Knowledge of proper BSL-2 laboratory safety precautions and procedures.
• Working knowledge and developed skills in DNA extraction, PCR assays, and troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of large animal handling and specimen collection techniques.
• Well-developed skills in interpersonal relations, oral and written communications, work prioritization, teamwork, and decision making.

PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Ability to sit at a laboratory bench or computer for long periods of time.
• Handling biological samples (e.g., tissues, blood, teeth).
• Ability to work with rotten, foul-smelling samples.
• Ability to work with bleach.
• Ability to lift fifty (50) pounds or more without assistance.
• Ability to work outside in various weather conditions and terrain.
• Ability to operate a 4-wheel drive vehicle in various weather and road conditions.
• Approximately 95% of this position involves laboratory diagnostics and data management within a veterinary laboratory; the remaining 5% of duties occur outside of the laboratory.
• Willing to keep a clean and organized lab, including duties pertaining to sweeping, mopping and removal of trash.
• Willing to travel and work independently with little or no supervision.

NOTES:

• FLSA: Non-Exempt
• Housing is not provided
• The expected start date is the end of June
• Travel is required
• Successful applicants for employment must pass a background check prior to appointment.
• In addition to submitting the state application, please submit a cover letter including career plans and suitability for the job.
• CONTACT: For more information regarding this position, contact  Jessica Jennings, Wildlife Health Laboratory Manager at jessica.jennings@wyo.gov or (307) 745-5865

Supplemental Information

040-Game & Fish-Wildlife Division

Click here to view the State of Wyoming Classification and Pay Structure.

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URL: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/wyoming/default.cfm

The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.

Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.