NMDA Agriculture Specialist Intermediate

Department Contact:Cheryl Mason-Herrera

Internal or External Search:External - Open to all applicants

Advertising Summary:New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) works for the benefit of the states 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 departments 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 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 Mexicos food and agriculture sector as well as service and outreach opportunities for NMSU making NMDA an integral part of the university.

PositionTitle: NMDA Agriculture Specialist Intermediate

College/Division: New Mexico Dept of Agriculture

Department: 180500-NMDA PESTICIDE MANAGEMENT BUREAU

Location: Las Cruces

Offsite Location (if applicable): Physical Work Location - Dona Ana County

Target Hourly/Salary Rate: $59965.78

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: Solely responsible for and/or working in collaboration with peers in the management and implementation of the departments pesticide licensing compliance outreach and investigation programs. Position has primary responsibilities for department outreach efforts directed at managing pesticide-related continuing education programs including review of online resources for educational relevancy; presentations related to licensed pesticide applications and regulatory updates; review of conference agendas for continuing education credits; development of webpage content and updates; participation in conference planning and other duties as assigned. The position is expected to serve as a primary point of contact among licensed pesticide applicators continuing education course sponsors and the department.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE POSITION: Field work may require physical activities including walking on uneven terrain periodic lifting of objects no more than 40 pounds working outdoors during summer and winter seasons handling of and working around the application of pesticides and occasional work in flowering/pollinating crops. A valid drivers license is required as well as the ability to drive for extended periods (e.g. 5-6 hours). Position requirements periodically require weekend and holiday office or field work and work hours greater than the normal eight hours/day and 40 hours/week.

May perform other essential job related duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:
Associates Degree 4 years of relevant experience or a Bachelors degree 2 years of relevant experience.

Equivalent Qualifications:
Any equivalent combination of education training and/or experience as approved by
Human Resource Services.

Preferred Qualifications:
Preference may be given to candidates with knowledge of applicable federal and state statutes rules and policies; demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders and colleagues regarding pesticide regulations; experience in technical writing; and commercial pesticide applications. Additionally preference may be given to candidates having an academic and applied background in one or more of the following: agronomy entomology weed management structural pest control or pesticide toxicology.

Special Certification/Licensure:
REQUIRED CERTIFICATION/LICENSE: Possess or within one year obtain Environmental Protection Agency credentials through training and applied experiences.

Environment: Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements such as extreme temperatures dirt dust fumes smoke unpleasant odors and/or loud noises.

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.