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

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Advertising Summary: This position has an end date of July 1, 2029


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

Position Title: NMDA Ag Specialist,Inter

College/Division: New Mexico Dept of Agriculture

Department: 180020-NMDA AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION SVCS

Location: Las Cruces

Offsite Location (if applicable): Various locations throughout New Mexico, including the Las Cruces office and field environments.

Target Hourly/Salary Rate: $59,965.78 - Commensurate with qualifications.

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: An Agriculture Specialist,Intermediate focused on the Trichomoniasis (Trich) Program at the New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) is responsible for coordinating statewide efforts to reduce the incidence and economic impact of bovine Trichomoniasis. The specialist supports surveillance, testing, and Trich-Free certification programs to ensure early detection and control of disease across New Mexico’s cattle industry, while promoting compliance with state regulations in coordination with the New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB), Veterinary Diagnostic Services (VDS), veterinarians, and producers.

The specialist organizes regional testing activities, including sale barn events and targeted testing in high-risk areas, ensuring efficient operations, proper biosecurity, and timely data submission. They manage program data systems, including maintaining the Trich-Free Certification database, integrating in-state and out-of-state test results, ensuring data quality, and producing reports that support traceability, regulatory decisions, and program evaluation.

In collaboration with Extension and industry partners, the specialist supports outreach and education efforts to improve producer awareness, compliance, and adoption of best management practices. This includes coordinating workshops, training events, and development of educational materials and decision-support tools incorporating economic considerations.

The specialist also supports nonregulatory compliance efforts for quarantined herds by coordinating with Trich Liaisons and veterinarians to facilitate effective herd management and timely quarantine release. Additionally, they assist with pilot initiatives to evaluate reinfection risks using tools such as movement monitoring and genetic analysis, and contribute to assessing program effectiveness.

They participate in interstate and interagency coordination to align standards, improve data sharing, and reduce disease risks associated with cattle movement. Through data analysis, reporting, and continuous program improvement, the specialist supports a coordinated, science-based approach to Trich control that strengthens disease prevention and long-term sustainability of New Mexico’s cattle industry.

May perform other essential duties as assigned.

Special Requirements:
Ability and willingness to travel statewide and work in both office and field environments.

This position has an end date of July 1, 2029

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: 

Preferred Qualifications: 
• Experience managing and analyzing program data systems, including databases used for tracking disease surveillance, certification, or traceability
• Knowledge of or direct experience with livestock production systems, particularly cattle operations, sale barns, and animal health programs
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders, including producers, veterinarians, industry partners, and regulatory agencies
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage field activities, logistics, and multi-region program operations
• Experience developing and delivering outreach, education, or training programs for agricultural audiences

Special Certification/Licensure: 

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work is normally performed indoors.

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.