The mission of the New Mexico Environment Departments (NMED), is to protect and restore our environment and foster a prosperous New Mexico for all future generations. Our mission is guided and implemented by four principles:
(1) Science: Using the best science to inform our decision making in protecting public health, the environment, and other matters.
(2) Innovation: Using innovative engineering and technological solutions in order to address environmental issues
(3) Collaboration: Engaging communities with interested stakeholders in environmental decision making outcomes
(4) Compliance – Ensuring meaningful compliance to state regulations and permits; leveling playing fields through enforcement
The Governor appoints the Environmental Protection Division (EPD Director) and serves at his pleasure. He works closely with the Cabinet Secretary and Deputy Cabinet Secretaries, as well as other Division Directors and Deputy Directors. The EPD Director supports the Department’s priorities, goals and deadlines while maintaining a strong portfolio. This position directly manages and supports Climate Change Bureau, Radiation Control Bureau, and Air Quality Control Bureau. These combined offices collectively employ 140 fulltime equivalents (FTEs). EPDs budget amounts to approximately $18M. It includes state general fund, federal grants and state special revenue funds.
The EPD director is responsible for protecting New Mexican’s air and environment and keeping the public from unnecessary radiation exposure. This includes the development of public health and environmental management policies, regulatory and compliance assurance strategy, and directing operational activities in close cooperation with the Cabinet Secretary and Deputy Cabinet Secretaries, EPD Director, Bureau Chiefs, and other stakeholders. Other responsibilities include leading collaboration with stakeholders; initiating and reviewing legislation; informing board members and/or lawmakers; and serving as the Department representative for outside parties; and developing compliance and enforcement strategy. The EPD director is responsible for implementing and evaluating performance measures. These can be found here.https://www.env.nm.gov/performance-measures/).
The ideal candidate must have proven leadership skills in business acumen, leading people and managing change, driving results and building alliances. The ideal candidate should be able provide outstanding customer service, work in both structured and unstructured environments, and manage multiple projects with competing deadlines. The ideal candidate must have exceptional communication skills. They should be able to communicate effectively with many stakeholders. The ideal candidate must be passionate about protecting the public health of New Mexicans as well as their natural environment.
The Governors Office and Department plan to fill this role as soon as possible. This position pays approximately $105,000 annually.