Position Title: Program Manager

Employee Classification: Program Manager

College/Division: New Mexico Dept of Agriculture

Department: 180021-NMDA PRODUCE SAFETY

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Location: Las Cruces

Offsite Location (if applicable):

Target Hourly/Salary Rate:  Commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Appointment Full-time Equivalency:  1.0

Exempt or Non-Exempt:  Exempt

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 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. NMDA/NMSU is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.

Classification Summary:
Under indirect supervision, oversees the operational planning, establishment, execution, and evaluation of a multifaceted program/project typically consisting of a set of closely related subprograms or associated activities. Oversees fiscal, operational, administrative, and human resources management of the program; seeks and develops outside funding sources. The program/project is usually focused to a single purpose; may be scientific, research, education, and/or services oriented, and is usually funded through contract/grant provisions.

Classification Standard Duties:
Programs are usually self-funded and/or grant-funded from a major funding source or series of funding sources. Manages and oversees the administrative and daily operations of a university program, ensuring compliance with university, state, and federal policies and regulations. Oversees the supervision of personnel, which includes work allocation, training, promotion and enforcement of internal procedures and controls, and problem resolution; evaluates performance and makes recommendations for personnel actions; motivates employees to achieve peak productivity and performance. Responsible for the design and development of the program(s). Manages contract, grant, and/or state funding; approves and monitors budget expenditures, prepares revisions and interim status reports on all accounts; oversees, and/or assists with proposal writing to develop additional funding. Provides technical and/or professional coordination and leadership in the execution of program/project activities, as appropriate to program objectives and area of expertise. Serves as principal point of representation and liaison with external constituencies on operational matters, and provides technical/professional guidance and leadership. Develops annual operating budgets and provides fiscal direction. Develops and implements systems and processes to establish and maintain records for the operating unit. Oversees and/or coordinates the collection, compilation, and analysis of program activity data; develops, writes, and presents comprehensive statistical and narrative program reports. Assists in producing, developing, advertising, and marketing project(s) and/or product(s) in various media such as print and video; may assist in developing teaching materials, handouts, news releases, pamphlets, and brochures. Assists in establishing and implementing short- and long-range goals, objectives, policies, and operating procedures. Collaborates with university departments, programs, projects, local and state school systems, and/or community organizations to consolidate resources and enhance programs. Develops or assists with the development and implementation of policies and procedures consistent with those of the organization to ensure efficient operation of the program/project. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency
Required Education:Bachelor's degree in a related field.; Required Experience:Five (5) years of professional experience related to the standard duties as outlined.; Equivalency:None; Required Certification/License:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE:Knowledge of contracts and grants preparation and management. Knowledge of management principles and practices.; SKILLS:Skill in the use of computers, preferably in a PC, Windows-based operating environment. Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community. Program planning and implementation skills. Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities. Skill in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating policy, and developing and implementing new strategies and procedures. Employee development and performance management skills.; ABILITIES:Ability to develop and maintain recordkeeping systems and procedures. Ability to provide technical coordination and management of development and/or implementation projects in area of expertise. Ability to gather data, compile information, and prepare reports. Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments. Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
This position provides leadership and operational oversight for the Produce Safety Program and is responsible for directing activities in alignment with FDA cooperative agreement requirements. This position supervises staff engaged in inspections, technical assistance, and outreach. This role also oversees training, credentialing, and professional development.

This position directs the program’s regulatory responsibilities by planning and overseeing farm inspections to verify compliance with the FSMA Produce Safety Rule. Inspection activities are conducted according to federal standards, ensuring compliance and enforcement follow-up, and maintaining communication with the FDA regarding regulatory actions.

This position leads educational and outreach efforts to support farmers in understanding and meeting produce safety requirements. Responsibilities include maintaining, updating, and coordinating Produce Safety Alliance grower trainings, On-Farm Readiness Reviews, and other outreach initiatives that strengthen producer knowledge and compliance.

This position is the primary liaison with the FDA, regional food safety alliances, and other state and national partners. The role represents the program in meetings, workgroups, and committees, ensuring the state’s perspective contributes to national discussions on produce safety. Coordination with public health and food safety partners is required during produce-related foodborne illness investigations and emergencies.

Program administration is managed through oversight of budgets, grants, and cooperative agreements. Duties include ensuring timely and accurate reporting to the FDA, maintaining program records and data systems, and monitoring performance metrics to evaluate program effectiveness. Risk-based decision-making is applied to prioritize activities, continuously review program performance, and implement necessary improvements. Remaining current with regulatory changes, industry practices, and emerging food safety issues is essential to sustaining a responsive and effective program.

Preferred Qualifications

Special Requirements of the Position

Department Contact:  Cheryl Mason-Herrera, 575-646-7523, nmdahr@nmda.nmsu.edu

Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon funding

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

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

If Not a Standard Work Schedule: 

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: Light physical effort. Effort applies to no more than two (2) hours per day.

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.