Open Positions

The New Mexico Environment Department’s (NMED) mission is to protect and restore the environment and to foster a healthy and prosperous New Mexico for present and future generations. We implement our mission guided by four tenets:

(1) Science: Using the best available science to inform our decision-making in protecting public health and the environment. (2) Innovation: Employing creative engineering and technological solutions to address environmental challenges. (3) Collaboration: Engaging communities and interested stakeholders in environmental decision-making outcomes. (4) Compliance: Ensuring meaningful compliance with state regulations and permits; leveling the playing field through enforcement. The Environmental Health Division (EHD) Director is appointed by the Governor and works closely with the Cabinet Secretary, Deputy Cabinet Secretary and other Division Directors. The EHD Director maintains a robust programmatic portfolio while supporting the Department and Administration priorities, goals and deadlines.

The EHD Director oversees a $10 million budget and the equivalent of 109 fulltime employees across 27 field offices across the state. The EHD Director, management team and staff are responsible for programs that directly impact the public health of New Mexicans, including permitting, technical assistance and compliance activities related to retail food establishments; industrial food manufacturing; cannabis and hemp extraction, manufacturing facilities, and processing facilities; public swimming pools and spas; and industrial/residential liquid waste (septic) throughout the state.

Additional responsibilities include leading collaboration with stakeholders; initiating, reviewing, and drafting legislation; informing legislators, local officials, community members, federal agencies, the Congressional delegation and others of Division projects; and serving as the Department representative to outside parties on priority environmental and public health protection matters.

The ideal candidate must have demonstrated leadership experience in business acumen, leading people, managing change, driving results, and building coalitions. 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 New Mexico’s natural environment and how it relates to human health.

The Governor’s Office and Department expect to fill this position as soon as possible. The salary for this position is between $95,000 and $105,000 annually, depending on experience.