Staff Manager - Environmental Science (NMED #33868)

The State of New Mexico is seeking a Staff Manager for the Environmental Science department in Santa Fe. This role involves supervising technical staff in the Air Quality Bureau's Minor Source Unit, managing permit applications, and ensuring compliance with air quality regulations. Responsibilities include staff management, program development, and collaboration with EPA. The position offers career growth and includes five days of leave.
Posting Details

This posting will be used for ongoing recruitment and may close at any time. Applicant lists may be screened more than once.

Department Name: Environmental Protection Division
Program Area: Air Quality Bureau/Minor Source Unit

Looking for a rewarding career and growth opportunity? The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) is seeking highly engaged talent to assist us in our mission to protect and restore the environment and foster a healthy and prosperous New Mexico for present and future generations. Come be a part of our great team for change! Learn more at: https://www.env.nm.gov/

As a valued new employee to the NMED, you will receive five (5) full days of leave in your leave.
Why does the job exist?

The purpose of this position is to support the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED)/Air Quality Bureau (AQB) permitting section through management of the minor source permit section unit functions. This position supervises technical staff who perform technical and regulatory reviews of the most complex air quality permit applications, complete various special projects to achieve AQB goals, and preparation to testify in legal proceedings. The goal of the minor source permit section is to ensure permits are legally enforceable to minimize air emissions and keep New Mexico's air clean.
How does it get done?
• Directly supervise all Environmental Scientist and Specialist II positions in the Minor Source Section, including hiring, disciplinary actions, time reporting, and performance evaluations.
• Indirectly supervise Environmental Scientist and Specialist III positions in the Minor Source Section.
• Assist the Minor Source Staff Manager with managing the regulatory, technical, and operational activities of the Minor Source Program.
• Help develop and implement program goals, objectives, policies, procedures, and organizational plans to ensure efficient service delivery and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate operations and sub-functions to meet program and agency goals.
• Ensure consistent and equitable application of state and federal air quality regulations across the industry.
• Review and interpret Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) policies, guidelines, and court cases; coordinate with EPA to ensure alignment with federal rules and grant requirements.
• Negotiate federal grant conditions with EPA and ensure the program fulfills all commitments.
• Serve as a liaison with upper management (e.g., Permit Programs Section Chief, Bureau Chief, and Division Director) and coordinate with other sections within the Bureau.
• Provide expert consultation to internal and external stakeholders (e.g., staff, legal, engineers, industry, citizens, EPA) on permitting procedures, regulatory requirements, and technical matters.
• Develop guidance materials, permitting templates, and policies; contribute permitting input for new or revised regulations and inter-agency issues.
• Lead or participate in special projects, including presentations for hearings or public meetings.
• Analyze complex program challenges, evaluate alternatives, and develop sound solutions.
• Provide technical training and guidance to staff and subordinate managers; promote professional development through site visits and formal courses.
• Ensure staff have the necessary resources and support to produce high-quality work.

Who are the customers?
• New Mexicans to protect and restore the environment
• Occasional contact with external Federal, State and Local regulatory bodies as well as contractors and environmental not for profit organizations
• Internal staff

Ideal Candidate
• New Mexicans to protect and restore the environment
• Occasional contact with external Federal, State and Local regulatory bodies as well as contractors and environmental not for profit organizations
• Internal staff

Minimum Qualification

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Animal Science, Natural Science, Biological Science, Physical Science and/or chemistry and five (5) years of work experience in environmental science, animal science, natural sciences, biological science, physical science and/or chemistry, to include two (2) years of heavy supervisory or limited professional level experience operating within strict parameters and guidelines directly related to the purpose of the position defined by the agency at the time of recruitment. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling nine (9) years may substitute for the required education and experience.
Employment Requirements

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 Certificate as a condition of continued employment.
Working Conditions

Work is performed in an office setting with exposure to Visual/Video Display Terminal (VDT) and extensive personal computer and phone usage. Some sitting, standing, bending and reaching may be required.
Supplemental Information

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Agency Contact Information: Rhonda Romero (505)629-3934 or Email

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

For more information on how to apply, please check out the Application Guide: link
Bargaining Unit Position

This position is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.