NMDA State Chemist

Department: New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) – an agency organized under the Board of Regents of New Mexico State University (NMSU). NMDA supports agriculture, food protection, fair trade, and natural-resource stewardship through science, technology, and economic strategies.

About the role

This full-time, exempt position serves as the technical expert and leader of a regulatory-agency laboratory. The State Chemist exercises independent judgment to review, revise, and develop analytical procedures, incorporate new equipment, and ensure compliance with statutory requirements and industry needs. The role oversees laboratory operations, staff work, and quality systems to maintain required certifications and meet program standards.

Responsibilities

• Review and revise laboratory analytical procedures and capabilities; introduce new analyses or equipment based on statutory requirements and industry needs.
• Oversee and assist in all laboratory operations to meet regulatory-program requirements and maintain certification standards.
• Resolve technical issues efficiently and develop, modify, or adapt methods for chemical, physical, or biological analysis.
• Consult on field sampling, handling, and preservation procedures; perform data recording, statistical analysis, and interpretation of results.
• Monitor, assess, and improve laboratory programs and procedures; verify compliance with program standards.
• Provide technical documentation or testimony in compliance conferences, hearings, or court proceedings.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state safety laws, codes, and regulations.
• Schedule and lead staff meetings; participate in problem-solving and decision-making.
• Perform other assigned duties.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree plus 8 years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor’s degree plus 6 years of relevant experience. Master’s degree or higher preferred.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain annual respirator medical approval and fit-test certification.
• Cover letter and unofficial transcripts are required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in laboratory accreditation, management, quality control, and ISO/IEC standards.
• Specific experience in chemical analysis of feed (protein, fat, fiber, moisture, ash), fertilizer (NPK via combustion or ICP-MS/OES), and/or pesticides (via GC, LC-MS/MS, HPLC).
• Method development/adaptation experience in a GLP or ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory.
• Position is regulatory (not research) and requires 55% or more bench work in the listed areas.

Working Conditions

• Constant exposure to extreme temperatures, toxic chemicals, biohazardous materials, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, loud noises, and other hazardous conditions requiring safety precautions and protective equipment.
• Moderate physical activity; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 50 pounds.