NMDA Ag Specialist,Inter

New Mexico State University•Las Cruces, NM

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

The New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) is dedicated to supporting the viability of agriculture and affiliated industries in New Mexico. NMDA focuses on food protection, fair market practices, global marketing, and economic development, while promoting the beneficial use of natural resources and collaborating with public and private entities. The department embraces innovation and utilizes science, technology, and economic strategies to contribute to a safe, affordable, and nutritious global food supply. As a constitutional agency under the Board of Regents of New Mexico State University (NMSU), NMDA leverages this relationship for efficiencies and outreach opportunities, making it an integral part of the university.

Requirements

Associate's Degree + 4 years of relevant experience or a Bachelor's degree + 2 years of relevant experience.
Ability and willingness to travel statewide and work in both office and field environments.

Nice To Haves

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.

Responsibilities

Coordinating statewide efforts to reduce the incidence and economic impact of bovine Trichomoniasis.
Supporting surveillance, testing, and Trich-Free certification programs for early detection and control of disease in New Mexico's cattle industry.
Promoting compliance with state regulations in coordination with the New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB), Veterinary Diagnostic Services (VDS), veterinarians, and producers.
Organizing regional testing activities, including sale barn events and targeted testing in high-risk areas, ensuring efficient operations, proper biosecurity, and timely data submission.
Managing 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.
Supporting outreach and education efforts in collaboration with Extension and industry partners to improve producer awareness, compliance, and adoption of best management practices.
Coordinating workshops, training events, and development of educational materials and decision-support tools.
Supporting nonregulatory compliance efforts for quarantined herds by coordinating with Trich Liaisons and veterinarians.
Assisting with pilot initiatives to evaluate reinfection risks using tools such as movement monitoring and genetic analysis.
Contributing to assessing program effectiveness.
Participating in interstate and interagency coordination to align standards, improve data sharing, and reduce disease risks associated with cattle movement.
Supporting a coordinated, science-based approach to Trich control through data analysis, reporting, and continuous program improvement.
Performing other essential duties as assigned.