Open Positions

This position focuses on leadership and oversight of the Environmental Protection Division (EPD), Resource Protection Division (RPD), Water Protection Division (WPD), and the Environmental Health Division (EHD) that collectively include 573 fulltime equivalents (FTEs). The DCS-A oversees EPD, RPD, WPD, and EHD budget management in coordination with the DCS-O. The DCS-A also supports the Cabinet Secretary in directing the work of the Office of Strategic Initiatives (OSI), managing legislative matters, constituent relations, community engagement and scientific reviews of federal environmental actions and rulemaking activities.

The DCS-A oversees program administration priorities and initiatives including infrastructure investments; produced water; climate change; perfluorinated substances (PFAS); recreational cannabis; and federal facility oversight. The DCS-A is responsible for strengthening compliance and enforcement programs; advancing water and wastewater infrastructure; and performance reporting for programmatic metrics across EPD, RPD, WPD, and EHD. The DCS-A also leads Tribal collaboration and consultation with the Department’s Tribal Liaison and helps maintain and grow the Department’s environmental justice and equity program. Additional responsibilities include serving as the Secretary’s designee to decide delegated docketed matters and providing coverage on Administration priorities including speaking engagements, inter-agency and legislative coordination, federal agency engagement, meetings with outside parties, and external communications on Governor initiatives and priorities. The DCS-A also may serve as the Department representative on the New Mexico Water Policy and Infrastructure Task Force, the 30 by 30 Advisory Committee, National Governors Association Water Policy Committee and multiple committees within the Environmental Council of the States.

The ideal candidate must have demonstrated leadership experience in business acumen, leading people, managing change, driving results, and building coalitions. The ideal candidate must demonstrate exceptional customer service while working in structured and unstructured environments and managing multiple projects with competing deadlines. The ideal candidate must possess exceptional communication skills, both oral and written, knowing how to effectively communicate with a wide variety of stakeholders. Finally, the ideal candidate should have a passion for the protection of human health and New Mexico’s natural environment.

The Governor’s Office and Department expect to fill this position as soon as possible. The salary for this position will be discussed with interested, qualified candidates.