What are the responsibilities and job description for the NMDA Public Affairs Specialist Intermediate position at New Mexico State University?
- 504190
- Las Cruces, New Mexico, United States
- Staff
- Staff Full-time
- Closing at: Nov 6 2026 - 23:55 MST
Department Contact: Cheryl Mason-Herrera, 575-646-7523, cmason@nmda.nmsu.edu
Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants
Advertising Summary: 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 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, 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 employer.
Position Details
Position Title: NMDA Public Affairs Specialist Intermediate
College/Division: New Mexico Dept of Agriculture
Department: 180001-NEW MEXICO DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTUR
Location: Las Cruces
Offsite Location (if applicable):
Target Hourly/Salary Rate: Entry $ 59,965.78 - Commensurate with qualifications and experience.
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: Under the direction of the NMDA Division Director and general supervision of the NMDA Public Affairs Asst, Sr., key tasks include writing and editing a variety of materials, such as press releases and media content. Plans and creates social media content for all of the department's platforms; provides analytics reports for social media; writes and edits social media posts; and edits news releases and other materials. The position also entails translating news releases and other documents to Spanish; handling video production; assisting with photography; and supporting the coordination of event planning, implementation, and evaluation. Establishing and nurturing relationships with media representatives, the public, and key stakeholders is crucial, as is assisting with media relations. The role involves resolving equipment problems and failures as they arise. Additionally, this position handles internal communications to keep staff informed and ensures adherence to relevant laws and regulations. Engaging with advertising clients and supporting public relations initiatives are integral aspects of the job. May represent the organization at community and business meetings, as well as participate in committees and task forces. Assisting in the creation and execution of communication strategies and processes that align with the organization's obligations-including those that encompass legislative and rulemaking obligations and processes-its objectives, and brand identity is essential. Support for the organization's social media platforms is necessary to enhance engagement. This role also involves maintaining mailing lists, contributing to crisis communication efforts, and providing guidance on public relations matters. May perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Required Education and Experience:
Associate's Degree 7 years of relevant experience or a Bachelor's degree 5 years of relevant experience.
Equivalent Qualifications
Any equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience as approved by Human Resource Services.
Preferred Qualifications
Spanish language translation
Special Certification/Licensure
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Environment: Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
Physical Effort: No or very limited physical effort required.
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.
Recruitment Summary
We are New Mexico’s land-grant institution and a comprehensive research university dedicated to teaching, research public service and outreach at all levels. NMSU is a welcoming community of talented faculty, staff and students who are working together to make a difference. We are a NASA Space Grant College, a Hispanic-serving institution (HSI), a minority-serving institution (MSI) and home to the first Honors College in New Mexico. We offer an accessible education that shapes bright futures.
NMSU provides learning opportunities to a diverse population of students and community members at four campuses, Cooperative Extension offices located in each of New Mexico’s 33 counties, 12 research and science centers, and through distance education.
NMSU Global Campus
Since 1888, NMSU has proudly embodied this tradition, building relationships that last a lifetime while serving students who want to earn their degree and grow in their field. Today, NMSU Global Campus provides flexible, career-focused online education that helps our students transform their lives – and the lives of the people they love – through over 70 degree and certificate programs, skill-building microlearning courses, and career and talent development.
NMSU Main Campus
Located in Las Cruces, NM, New Mexico State University's 900-acre main campus is located at the crossroads of I-10 and I-25 in the Southwestern United States. As a thriving center of higher education, deeply rooted in the regional tradition, its role as a comprehensive university is recognized throughout the state.
Doña Ana Community College
Founded in 1973 in collaboration with local school districts to support occupational education, DACC is now a leading community college that provides transformative educational opportunities that meet the workforce needs of Doña Ana County. With a focus on access, innovation and excellence, DACC offers over ninety degrees and certificates, adult education, specialized workforce training, and small business assistance.
Alamogordo Campus
Established in 1958 to serve the needs of the airmen and families stationed at Holloman Air Force Base located only 10 miles west of Alamogordo, NMSUA is a community college with a long history of excellence that is supported by a caring community of hard-working students and dedicated faculty and staff. The campus is situated “on the hill” above Alamogordo and provides inspiring views of the city and the Tularosa Basin, offering the perfect venue for creative and motivated learning.
Grants Campus
NMSU Grants was established as a branch of New Mexico State University in 1968 through the cooperative efforts of New Mexico State University and Grants Municipal Schools. As a two-year branch community college, NMSU Grants serves the local communities in Cibola and McKinley counties, including the Pueblos of Acoma, Laguna, and Zuni, as well as Tohajiilee, San Mateo, San Rafael, Cubero, the City of Grants, and the Village of Milan.
Special Instructions to Applicants
The electronic application is the *official* document that will be used to qualify applicants. Paper/email documents will not be accepted. Required documents must be attached to this application.
EEO Statement
New Mexico State University does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, military service, or other non-merit factor.
Requesting an Accommodation
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and New Mexico State University policy, if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply, interview, or complete onboarding for a position with New Mexico State University, or if you cannot use the online application system, please visit our Accessibility & Accommodations page to initiate an accommodation request
Salary : $59,966