Program Specialist

New Mexico State University • Las Cruces, NM

28d • Remote

About The Position

We are seeking a dynamic individual to plan and coordinate the development, implementation, and execution of the high school unit of Indian Resources Development (IRD) to promote, develop, and connect Native American students in New Mexico with higher education and experiential learning opportunities. This role involves building relationships with high schools, tribal entities, and other organizations to foster collaboration and identify student needs. The specialist will promote out-of-school educational opportunities, assist in developing advisory committees, and coordinate outreach activities to increase awareness and participation in IRD initiatives. Additionally, the role supports the identification and promotion of career exploration, apprenticeships, internships, and research experiences for high school students.

Requirements

• Associate's Degree + 2 years of relevant experience or a Bachelor's degree.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated knowledge of American Indians, including their culture, history, reservation life, and educational challenges.
• Knowledge of federal and state laws affecting American Indians.
• Knowledge of and experience with Indian resource education and development.

Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate the development, implementation, and execution of the high school unit of Indian Resources Development (IRD) with the objective of promoting, developing, and connecting Native American students in New Mexico with higher education and experiential learning opportunities in education, agriculture, natural resources, energy, entrepreneurship, engineering, and business, and workforce development, and other areas of focus of IRD.
• Build relations with high schools, tribal entities, higher education institutions, and relevant organizations to identify areas of collaboration related to college and career exploration and readiness; and student programs in the areas of focus of IRD.
• Establish and foster relationships with tribes to learn about their needs and interests regarding building capacity in areas of focus of IRD.
• Nurture and develop a network of teachers, administrators, advisors, and tribal liaisons connected with high schools across New Mexico with a large Native American student body.
• Identify, develop, and/or promote out-of-school educational opportunities, including camps, for high school Native American students through collaborations with tribal and non-tribal organizations that provide programming in areas of focus of IRD.
• Aid in the development and maintenance of a strong Tribal Advisory Committee, Youth Advisory Committee, and the College Advisory Committee for IRD, and in the promotion of IRD as a statewide program.
• Coordinate outreach activities with tribal communities, educational institutions, and partner organizations to increase awareness of IRD and facilitate participation, workforce development, and community engagement initiatives.
• Assist in identifying, developing, and promoting career exploration, apprenticeships, internships, and research experiences for high school students through their schools and host organizations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree