NMDA Public Affairs 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 an Intermediate Public Affairs Specialist to write and edit materials, manage social media content, translate to Spanish, and assist with communications strategies. The role involves media relations, event support, and coordination of outreach initiatives.

Under supervision, you will craft news releases, monitor analytics, and contribute to internal communications while representing NMDA at public and community engagements.

Qualifications

• Writes and edits press releases and media content.
• Plans and creates social media content with analytics reports.
• Translates news releases and documents to Spanish; assists with video and photography.
• Coordinates event planning, implementation and evaluation.
• Builds relationships with media, the public and stakeholders; supports media relations.

Responsibilities

• Establish and nurture media relationships and assist with media relations.
• Manage internal communications to staff and ensure regulatory adherence.
• Support advertising clients and public relations initiatives.
• Represent the organization at community and business meetings; participate in committees.

Skills

Writing & Editing

Social media

Spanish translation

Education

Associate's Degree + 7 years relevant experience

Bachelor's degree + 5 years relevant experience

Job description

• 504190


• Las Cruces, New Mexico, United States


• Staff


• Staff Full-time


• Closing at: Nov 6 2026 - 23:55 MST

Department Contact

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

Internal or External Search

External - Open to all applicants

Advertising Summary

The 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 marketplace, and global marketing and economic development; supports the 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, 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. NMDA/NMSU is an equal opportunity employer.

Position Details

Position Title

NMDA Public Affairs Specialist Intermediate

College/Division

New Mexico Dept of Agriculture

Department

180001-NEW MEXICO DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTUR

Location

Las Cruces

Target Hourly/Salary Rate

Entry $ 59,965.78 - Commensurate with qualifications and experience.

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

Under the direction of the NMDA Division Director and general supervision of the NMDA Public Affairs Asst, Sr., key tasks include writing and editing a variety of materials, such as press releases and media content. Plans and creates social media content for all of the department's platforms; provides analytics reports for social media; writes and edits social media posts; and edits news releases and other materials. The position also entails translating news releases and other documents to Spanish; handling video production; assisting with photography; and supporting the coordination of event planning, implementation, and evaluation. Establishing and nurturing relationships with media representatives, the public, and key stakeholders is crucial, as is assisting with media relations. The role involves resolving equipment problems and failures as they arise. Additionally, this position handles internal communications to keep staff informed and ensures adherence to relevant laws and regulations. Engaging with advertising clients and supporting public relations initiatives are integral aspects of the job. May represent the organization at community and business meetings, as well as participate in committees and task forces. Assisting in the creation and execution of communication strategies and processes that align with the organization's obligations-including those that encompass legislative and rulemaking obligations and processes-its objectives, and brand identity is essential. Support for the organization's social media platforms is necessary to enhance engagement. This role also involves maintaining mailing lists, contributing to crisis communication efforts, and providing guidance on public relations matters. May perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience

Associate's Degree + 7 years of relevant experience or a Bachelor's degree + 5 years of relevant experience.

Equivalent Qualifications

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

Preferred Qualifications

Spanish language translation

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment

Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.

Physical Effort

No or very limited physical effort required.

Lifting Requirements

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

Risk

No or very limited exposure to physical risk.

Recruitment Summary

We are New Mexico’s land-grant institution and a comprehensive research university dedicated to teaching, research public service and outreach at all levels. NMSU is a welcoming community of talented faculty, staff and students who are working together to make a difference. We are a NASA Space Grant College, a Hispanic-serving institution (HSI), a minority-serving institution (MSI) and home to the first Honors College in New Mexico. We offer an accessible education that shapes bright futures.

NMSU provides learning opportunities to a diverse population of students and community members at four campuses, Cooperative Extension offices located in each of New Mexico’s 33 counties, 12 research and science centers, and through distance education.

NMSU Global Campus

Since 1888, NMSU has proudly embodied this tradition, building relationships that last a lifetime while serving students who want to earn their degree and grow in their field. Today, NMSU Global Campus provides flexible, career-focused online education that helps our students transform their lives - and the lives of the people they love - through over 70 degree and certificate programs, skill-building microlearning courses, and career and talent development.

NMSU Main Campus

Located in Las Cruces, NM, New Mexico State University's 900-acre main campus is located at the crossroads of I-10 and I-25 in the Southwestern United States. As a thriving center of higher education, deeply rooted in the regional tradition, its role as a comprehensive university is recognized throughout the state.

Doña Ana Community College

Founded in 1973 in collaboration with local school districts to support occupational education, DACC is now a leading community college that provides transformative educational opportunities that meet the workforce needs of Doña Ana County. With a focus on access, innovation and excellence, DACC offers over ninety degrees and certificates, adult education, specialized workforce training, and small business assistance.

Alamogordo Campus

Established in 1958 to serve the needs of the airmen and families stationed at Holloman Air Force Base located only 10 miles west of Alamogordo, NMSUA is a community college with a long history of excellence that is supported by a caring community of hard-working students and dedicated faculty and staff. The campus is situated on the hill above Alamogordo and provides inspiring views of the city and the Tularosa Basin, offering the perfect venue for creative and motivated learning.

Grants Campus

NMSU Grants was established as a branch of New Mexico State University in 1968 through the cooperative efforts of New Mexico State University and Grants Municipal Schools. As a two-year branch community college, NMSU Grants serves the local communities in Cibola and McKinley counties, including the Pueblos of Acoma, Laguna, and Zuni, as well as Tohajiilee, San Mateo, San Rafael, Cubero, the City of Grants, and the Village of Milan.

EEO Statement

New Mexico State University does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, military service, or other non‑merit factor.

Requesting an Accommodation

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and New Mexico State University policy, if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply, interview, or complete onboarding for a position with New Mexico State University, or if you cannot use the online application system, please visit our Accessibility & Accommodations page to initiate an accommodation request