Position Title: Program Specialist

Employee Classification: Program Specialist

College/Division: New Mexico Dept of Agriculture

Department: 180850-NMDA MARKETING AND DEVELOP DIVISION

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Location: Las Cruces

Offsite Location (if applicable):

Target Hourly/Salary Rate: $38,426 - $48,032. Commensurate with qualifications and experience

Appointment Full-time Equivalency: 1.0

Exempt or Non-Exempt: Exempt

Summary: 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 and affirmative action employer.

Classification Summary:Plans and implements a single, narrow focused program initiative for an identified client-oriented operational entity of the University. Participates in the generation of the program resources and in the design and development of the program operating goals, objectives, and protocols. Serves as primary point of both internal and external representation and liaison with respect to the implementation, operational matters and compliance.Provides technical/professional and programmatic guidance, consultation, and support to client constituencies .

Classification Standard Duties:Programs are usually self-funded and/or grant-funded from a major funding source or series of funding sources. Plans and coordinates the development, implementation, and execution of a single program, special project, or other initiative designed to achieve the overall mission, goals, and objectives of the program. Oversees and administers all facets of the day-to-day operations of the program and activities related to the position's specific discipline. Serves as primary liaison with internal and external constituencies on all matters relating to program activities; represents the University with respect to program activities on a local, regional, and/or national basis. Plans, develops, and implements strategies for identifying and generating funding and/or resource opportunities for program activities, to include development of grant and other fundraising proposals. Provides and/or coordinates the provision of technical guidance, consultation, related support to clientele within area of program focus; provides day-to-day problem solving as necessary on day-to-day program-related needs and issues. Creates, produces, and delivers a range of promotional, educational, and informational presentations, and/or resource materials related to program activities and initiatives. Oversees and/or coordinates the collection, compilation, and analysis of program activity data; develops, writes, edits, and presents comprehensive statistical and narrative program reports and evaluations. Participates in the development of operating goals and objectives for the unit; recommends, implements, and administers methods and procedures to enhance operations, as appropriate to the unit.May supervise staff and/or student employees which includes: work allocation, training,promotion and enforcement of internal procedures and controls and problem resolution;evaluates performance and makes recommendations for personnel actions;motivates employees to achieve peak productivity and performance. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency

Required Education:Bachelor's degree in a related field.; Required Experience:One (1) year of professional experience related to the standard duties as outlined.; Equivalency:None; Required Certification/License:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

KNOWLEDGE:Demonstrated professional knowledge and operational expertise within designated area of program focus.; SKILLS:Program planning, development, implementation, and leadership skills. Skill in examining and evaluating operations and developing and/or re-engineering operating strategies, systems, and procedures. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in a diverse community.; ABILITIES:Ability to determine informational needs, to collect and analyze information, and to devise and develop statistical analyses and reports. Ability to develop and deliver both oral and written presentations. Ability to use independent judgment and to manage and impart information to a range of clientele and/or media sources. Ability to make administrative/procedural decisions and judgments. Ability to develop and implement funding strategies and programs.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Support the Department, community partners, non-governmental agencies, nonprofits, agribusinesses, local governments, and agricultural producers through an array of food and agricultural programs - including, but not limited to: USDA Local Food Procurement Cooperative Agreement Program , USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, the Governor's Food Initiative, and the New Mexico Grown Program. Responsibilities include supporting program leads (i.e. principal investigators) though accounting, reporting, outreach, communications, and other related tasks.

Support the NMDA Marketing & Development Division with a variety of initiatives, such as the Taste and Grown with Tradition Logo Program, fairs, promotions, tradeshows, conferences, seminars, trainings, promotions and other related activities and events.

Preferred Qualifications

Special Requirements of the Position

A cover letter and unofficial transcripts are required.

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

Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon funding

Bargaining Unit Eligibility: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Standard Work Schedule: Standard (M-F, 8-5)

If Not a Standard Work Schedule:

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work is normally performed indoors.

Physical Effort: Light physical effort. Effort applies to no more than two (2) hours per day.

Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 10 pounds or some standing or walking.

Risk: No or very limited exposure to physical risk.