NMDA Ag Specialist,Inter

New Mexico State University•Las Cruces, NM

4d•$59,966•Hybrid

About The Position

This position has an end date of July 1, 2029. 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 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.

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 to ensure early detection and control of disease across 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 that support traceability, regulatory decisions, and program evaluation.
Supporting outreach and education efforts to improve producer awareness, compliance, and adoption of best management practices in collaboration with Extension and industry partners.
Coordinating workshops, training events, and development of educational materials and decision-support tools incorporating economic considerations.
Supporting nonregulatory compliance efforts for quarantined herds by coordinating with Trich Liaisons and veterinarians to facilitate effective herd management and timely quarantine release.
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 that strengthens disease prevention and long-term sustainability of New Mexico’s cattle industry.
Performing other essential duties as assigned.