Statewide Projects Lead (OSE/ISC #6071)

Posting Details

Interviews are anticipated to be conducted within two weeks of closing date.

The Office of the State Engineer is responsible for administering the diversion and use of surface and groundwater within the State of New Mexico. 

The Statewide Bureau of the New Mexico Office of the State Engineer protects the waters of the State of New Mexico for beneficial use through licensing and regulating water well drillers, reviewing the meters used to monitor water usage, developing guidelines, outreach, and technical reviews of reports from local, state and federal agencies that could impact the quantity of water available for beneficial use.

To learn more about the Office of the State Engineer, please visit our website: https://www.ose.nm.gov/

Why does the job exist?

This position takes the lead in well driller licensing and enforcement of well construction and providing well driller's continuing education classes.  It also provides coordination of applications, tracking and subsequent reporting relating to the Underground Storage and Recovery (USR), and Deep Well NOIs and Permits  to ensure statutory deadlines are met. 

This position will provide back-up assistance to the Statewide Projects Bureau Chief in the other areas and support other efforts in support of the entire agency such as accounting and reporting of water rights processing, write new State Engineer Orders, maintain notebooks of current policies and guidelines, New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) closures, meter reviews, casings and sealants and update to agency approved lists, policy formulation, research old policies and guidelines, create and provide employee training and general assistance to the public.

How does it get done?

*Manage projects and complete duties as assigned in support of statewide projects related to water administration.
*Prepare written reprimands for violations of well construction or other well driller licensing offenses.
*Provide training and approve class content of other proposed classes for the Well Driller continuing Education Program.
*Respond to well driller complaints and inquiries in a reasonable and timely manner.
*Assist in the development and revision of new guidelines, policies, rules and regulations and standard operating procedures.
*Work to develop improved tools and communication between technical staff in Water Rights.
*Provide and coordinate training to Water Rights staff as appropriate.
*Review water rights documents and prepare notices for Underground Storage & Recovery Projects statewide.
*Prepare exhibits for hearings and serve as expert witness for the Office of the state Engineer when appropriate.
*Provide timely and professional assistance to the public and agency staff, both in person and over the telephone.
*Research historical and technical information to educate staff when they make inquiries.
*Work to develop new tools using remote sensing and improve communication between technical staff in Water Rights.

Who are the customers?

The work provided by this position serves management, staff, consultants and the general public.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will have the following:
-Knowledge of subsurface geology/hydrogeology, remote sensing and well construction.
-Knowledge of the Statutes and Codes that govern the licensing, drilling and completing of water wells.
-Understanding of statutes and regulations governing water use in NM.
-Knowledge of New Mexico water rights and the administration of those rights.
-Experience in public speaking and/or training professionals.
-Knowledge of the tools used to research water data and water rights in New Mexico.

Minimum Qualification

Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture Science, Hydrology, Geology, Environmental Science, Water Resources, Watershed Management, Physics, Natural Science, Physical Science, Life Science, Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Forestry/Forest Science, Conservation Science, Wildlife Science, Emergency Management, or Engineering and four (4) years of relevant experience. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling eight (8) years may substitute for the required education and experience.

Employment Requirements

This position is required to drive a state vehicle.  Must possess and maintain a valid New Mexico Driver's License. Must possess and maintain a current Defensive Driving Course Certificate from the State of New Mexico or must pass and receive Defensive Driving Course Certification within six (6) months of date of hire as a condition of continued employment.

Working Conditions

Office setting, exposure to Visual/Video Display Terminal (VDT) and extensive personal computer and telephone usage with extended periods of sitting.  Must be able to lift 25 lbs.  Occasional exposure to outdoor work which may be accompanied by extreme weather.

Supplemental Information

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Agency Contact Information: Chris Angel 505-469-1796 Email

For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.

Bargaining Unit Position

This position is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

Salary : $81,349 - $130,159