NMDA Agriculture Specialist Intermediate

New Mexico State University; Las Cruces (NM); On-site; USD 54,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) in Las Cruces is seeking a mid-level Agriculture Specialist Intermediate to manage pesticide licensing, compliance, outreach, and investigations. The role emphasizes coordination with licensed applicators, course sponsors, and the department across education and regulatory updates.

The ideal candidate will hold an Associate's or Bachelor's degree with relevant experience, possess EPA credentials within a year, and be prepared for field and office

Qualifications

• Associate's Degree + 4 years of relevant experience or Bachelor's degree + 2 years.
• Equivalent qualifications: any equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience as approved by HR.
• Preferred qualifications include knowledge of applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and policies; ability to communicate with stakeholders; experience in technical writing; and background in agronomy, entomology, weed management, structural pest control, or pesticide toxicology.
• Special Certification/Licensure: EPA credentials required within one year.

Responsibilities

• Manage pesticide licensing, compliance, outreach, and investigation programs.
• Lead continuing education programs, review online resources, and develop webpage content.
• Serve as primary contact among licensed pesticide applicators, course sponsors, and the department.

Skills

Stakeholder communication

Technical writing

Pesticide regulations knowledge

Public outreach

Education

Associate's Degree + 4 years of relevant experience

Bachelor's degree + 2 years of relevant experience

Job description

Department Contact:Cheryl Mason-Herrera, 575-646-7523, [e-mail]

Internal or External Search:External - Open to all applicants

Advertising Summary:New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) works for the benefit of the state’s citizens and supports the viability of agriculture and affiliated industries. NMDA promotes food protection, a uniform and fair market place, and global marketing and economic development; supports beneficial use of natural resources; and works cooperatively with public and private sector entities. Opportunities for excellence abound, and NMDA staff dedicate themselves to proactive service in fulfilling the department’s mission. Each division plays an important role in carrying out the goals and objectives. Our rich agricultural history, culture, and traditions are addressed through new and innovative approaches using the latest in science, technology, and economic strategies. In New Mexico we contribute to the safest and most affordable and nutritious food supply on the globe.

NMDA is a constitutional agency organized under the Board of regents of New Mexico State University (NMSU). This unique relationship creates efficiencies and opportunities for New Mexico’s food and agriculture sector as well as service and outreach opportunities for NMSU, making NMDA an integral part of the university.

Position Details

PositionTitle: NMDA Agriculture Specialist Intermediate

College/Division: New Mexico Dept of Agriculture

Department: 180500-NMDA PESTICIDE MANAGEMENT BUREAU

Location: Las Cruces

Offsite Location (if applicable): Physical Work Location - Dona Ana County

Target Hourly/Salary Rate: $59,965.78

Appointment Full-time Equivalency: 1.0

FLSA Status:Exempt

Bargaining Unit Announcement: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Contingent Upon Funding:Contingent upon funding

Standard Work Schedule:Standard (M-F, 8-5)

Job Duties and Responsibilities: Solely responsible for, and/or working in collaboration with peers, in the management and implementation of the department’s pesticide licensing, compliance, outreach, and investigation programs. Position has primary responsibilities for department outreach efforts directed at managing pesticide-related continuing education programs, including review of online resources for educational relevancy; presentations related to licensed pesticide applications and regulatory updates; review of conference agendas for continuing education credits; development of webpage content and updates; participation in conference planning and other duties as assigned. The position is expected to serve as a primary point of contact among licensed pesticide applicators, continuing education course sponsors, and the department.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE POSITION: Field work may require physical activities including walking on uneven terrain, periodic lifting of objects no more than 40 pounds, working outdoors during summer and winter seasons, handling of and working around the application of pesticides, and occasional work in flowering/pollinating crops. A valid driver’s license is required as well as the ability to drive for extended periods (e.g., 5-6 hours). Position requirements periodically require weekend and holiday office or field work, and work hours greater than the normal eight hours/day and 40 hours/week.

May perform other essential job related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience: Associate's Degree + 4 years of relevant experience or a Bachelor's degree + 2 years of relevant experience.

Equivalent Qualifications: Any equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience as approved by Human Resource Services.

Preferred Qualifications: Preference may be given to candidates with knowledge of applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and policies; demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders and colleagues regarding pesticide regulations; experience in technical writing; and commercial pesticide applications. Additionally, preference may be given to candidates having an academic and applied background in one or more of the following: agronomy, entomology, weed management, structural pest control, or pesticide toxicology.

Special Certification/Licensure: REQUIRED CERTIFICATION/LICENSE: Possess or within one year obtain Environmental Protection Agency credentials through training and applied experiences.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

Physical Effort: Moderate physical activity.

Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 10 pounds or some standing or walking.

Risk: Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.