New Mexico State University is a comprehensive land-grant institution of higher learning accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Universities. An active research university, NMSU anchors the southern end of New Mexico’s Rio Grande Research Corridor, exceeding $140 million in research and public service expenditures. NMSU is classified as a Hispanic-serving institution by the federal government with a total minority enrollment over 48%. Home to the state’s NASA Space Grant Program, NMSU is located in Las Cruces, which features desert mesas, the farmlands of the Rio Grande Valley, and the Organ Mountains, an extension of the Rocky Mountain chain. The University is committed to building a cultural diverse educational environment.

This position will have responsibility equally distributed between outreach, administrative, and research tasks to support NOAA funded projects related to ecological drought (EcoDri) and the climate assessment of the southwest (CLIMAS). Specific duties include maintaining existing regional networks and building new partnerships relevant to ecological drought and CLIMAS projects, assisting in activities related to outreach to communities, interacting with stakeholders using social media, creating new website content related to drought, climate, climate change, and water resources, interacting with the CLIMAS team at the University of Arizona, and managing administrative tasks related to project reporting, budgeting, and grant tracking. This position will also support the research teams in achieving related research objectives such as the development of an ecological drought communication framework for New Mexico and Arizona and identification of societal impacts of climate change (due to increased aridity, water shortage, and health) and ecological drought on communities in the Southwest US. The coordinator will also assist in disseminating research findings through peer-reviewed publications and professional meetings. Duties to other related projects can also be assigned.

Basic knowledge of climate change and climate-related issues in the U.S. Southwest; ability to communicate effectively in written and oral formats; skill in coordinating and convening diverse stakeholders and interest groups; ability to coordinate and plan in-person and online events; skills in short- and long-term planning; experience related to project management, scheduling, budgets, and compiling information for annual reports, familiarity with relational databases, including designing, organizing, and querying information in a database; familiarity with graphic design software (e.g. Adobe suite) and/or business intelligence software (Tableau, PowerBI, etc.); familiarity with basic website management using a content management system (e.g. Cascade); familiarity with using social media platforms for program-related outreach (e.g., Twitter, YouTube

Independently employs a broad knowledge of principles, practices, and procedures in a particular field of specialization to plan, design, and conduct research and present findings. Carries out novel or complex assignments requiring the development of new or improved techniques and procedures. May act in a liaison capacity with various department, divisions, and organizations.

Designs and implements research protocols and projects; applies advanced analytical techniques and the modification and extension of theories and practices in innovative research projects in field of specialty; develops statistical and observational models. Operates and maintains sophisticated equipment to conduct research, analyze data, and report research findings; may instruct others in use of equipment. Applies diversified knowledge of scientific research principles, practices, and protocols in research projects; may make recommendations and conclusions which serve as the basis for decision making in a specialty area. Collaborates with users and principal investigators on design, analysis, application, and reporting of research projects; teaches and advises on techniques. Supplies technical leadership and consultation to professional co-workers, collaborators, and graduate students. Prepares analyses, reports, and other documentation for publication; presents findings at local, national, and/or international meetings. Prepares grant proposals to obtain funding in support of research activities.Serves as principal investigator, as appropriate, on sub-projects of complexities consistent with above criteria. May manage or oversee a research laboratory; may curate a research collection. Maintains currency of knowledge with respect to relevant state-of-the-art technology, equipment, and/or systems.Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of current technological developments/trends in area of expertise. Comprehensive knowledge of engineering, scientific, and/or mathematical concepts and theories in area of specialty. knowledge of contracts and grants preparation and management. Knowledge of engineering and/or scientific research principles, practices, and protocols. Knowledge of research methodology, principles and procedures.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community. Skill in educating others in research methods and techniques in area of expertise.

Ability to utilize advanced computer statistical and technical applications. Ability to use independent judgment to adapt and modify research concepts and approaches to specific projects. Ability to provide technical guidance and leadership to professional personnel in area of expertise. Ability to develop and deliver presentations. Ability to develop scientific reports and manuscripts based on original research. Ability to utilize and maintain advanced scientific equipment and facilities. Ability to utilize advanced analytical techniques and programs to develop scientific models.

Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

Five(5) years of professional experience related to the standard duties as outlined

Experience in GIS, Web GIS, and programing is desirable.

Ability to utilize advanced computer statistical and technical applications. Ability to use independent judgment to adapt and modify research concepts and approaches to specific projects. Ability to provide technical guidance and leadership to professional personnel in area of expertise. Ability to develop and deliver presentations. Ability to develop scientific reports and manuscripts based on original research. Ability to utilize and maintain advanced scientific equipment and facilities.
A Master of Science degree in a field related to climate science, water science, environmental science, and environment management and policy or related field. A Ph.D. degree in a related field is preferred.

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The electronic application is the official document that will be used to qualify applicants. Paper/email documents will not be accepted. Required documents must be attached to this application.