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

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 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 employer.

Position Details

Position Title: Natural Resources Policy Plan Analyst Senior

College/Division: New Mexico Dept of Agriculture

Department: 180651-NMDA AG PGMS AND RESOURCES DIV

Location: Remote

Offsite Location (if applicable): Northeastern, Eastern, East Central New Mexico area

Target Hourly/Salary Rate: $59,965.78 entry

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)

If Not a Standard Work Schedule: 

Job Duties and Responsibilities: This position serves in a senior-level capacity providing strategic, technical, and regulatory guidance to Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) across New Mexico. The position is responsible for delivering comprehensive support to approximately 11 of the state’s 47 SWCDs, which function as independent political subdivisions governed by locally elected and appointed officials. Each district operates under unique natural resource priorities, requiring tailored technical assistance, policy interpretation, and programmatic guidance.

The position provides advanced consultation and training to SWCD board members and staff to ensure compliance with a broad range of statutory and regulatory requirements. This includes, but is not limited to, the Soil and Water Conservation District Act (enabling legislation), Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA), Open Meetings Act (OMA), Audit Act, State Procurement Code, and applicable per diem and mileage regulations. The role ensures that SWCDs operate in accordance with all legal and governance requirements, minimizing risk and supporting accountability as public entities.

This position functions as a key liaison between SWCDs and a wide network of stakeholders, including federal, state, local, and tribal governments, non-governmental organizations, elected officials, and the public. The role requires a high level of coordination and relationship management to facilitate alignment between local conservation priorities and broader state and federal initiatives.

The position provides strategic guidance to SWCDs in identifying, developing, and implementing conservation programs and initiatives that support soil health, water conservation, rangeland management, and overall natural resource sustainability. This includes assisting districts in carrying out their locally established conservation missions while ensuring alignment with statewide agricultural and environmental priorities.

The role supports both state and local planning efforts related to natural resource management, conservation, and agricultural sustainability. This includes active participation in planning processes, review of proposals, and integration of scientific, technical, and policy considerations into actionable recommendations.

The position conducts analysis of policy, regulatory, and planning issues affecting natural resources, land management, and the agricultural industry. Based on this analysis, the position develops and provides recommendations to the Division Director regarding potential actions, policy positions, and strategic direction.

This position may assist with other division programs and provide oversight of staff, assignments, and contracted services, including coordinating work activities, ensuring deliverables are met, and maintaining compliance with applicable policies and funding requirements.

The role requires a high level of subject matter expertise in natural resource management, conservation practices, and agricultural systems, as well as the ability to evaluate the impacts of policy and program decisions on the agricultural industry. The position exists to support and advance agriculture in New Mexico by ensuring that stakeholders have access to accurate, timely, and relevant information to inform decision-making.

The position is responsible for developing and delivering training and outreach to a wide range of stakeholders, including SWCD officials, producers, partner agencies, and the public, to promote compliance, enhance program effectiveness, and support conservation outcomes.

This position has statewide responsibilities and travel obligations of up to 50% of the time both in-state and out-of-state as needed, including overnight travel.

May perform other essential 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: 

Preferred Qualifications: 

Special Certification/Licensure: 

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 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.

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