Program Manager

Submission Instructions:
An account with the NMSU job board website will be required (https://jobs.nmsu.edu/login). Once an account has been made, proceed with using the job URL (https://careers.nmsu.edu/jobs/program-manager-las-cruces-new-mexico-united-states-a0b831ec-1077-4b1b-b192-456569af9f4b) to apply for the position of Program Manager at the New Mexico Water Resources Research Institute. Only applications submitted through the NMSU jobs portal will be considered.
 

Job Duties and Responsibilities
The role involves managing the activities, tracking, and reporting of one or more WRRI grant-funded programs to ensure that objectives and deliverables are met while complying with university, state, and federal policies and regulations. The position facilitates team collaboration and assists in developing program budgets and managing contracts, grants, and state funding. This includes monitoring budget expenditures and burn rates, as well as preparing revisions and interim status reports for all accounts.

The individual will prepare quarterly and annual project reports, organize and gather materials to ensure project deliverables are met, and collect and share data to manage all aspects of meeting those deliverables. Additionally, they will review and provide feedback on manuscripts and technical reports, oversee and assist with proposal writing to secure additional funding, and provide technical and professional coordination and leadership in executing program/project activities aligned with objectives and areas of expertise.

This role also involves coordinating and communicating information related to institutional and specific grant-funded program objectives and results. It plays a crucial part in overseeing sponsored projects, understanding the full scope of work, deliverables, and requirements. The individual will facilitate and assist Principal Investigators (PIs), staff, partners, and graduate assistants with project development, presentation materials, and reporting; work with collaborative teams; and develop integrated project plans to ensure successful execution.

As the primary point of contact for assigned grant-funded projects, the individual will ensure that the program's objectives are carried out and completed. Responsibilities include developing work allocations for project support, training, promoting and enforcing internal procedures and controls, and resolving problems. They will also be responsible for coordinating the implementation of the monitoring and assessment component of grant-funded projects which will require time on location engaging directly with producers and other vested parties.

Additionally, this role serves as the principal representative and liaison with external constituencies on operational matters, providing technical and professional guidance and leadership. The individual will develop annual operating budgets and provide fiscal direction, as well as establish and maintain records for the operating unit. They will oversee and coordinate the collection, compilation, and analysis of program activity data, writing and presenting comprehensive statistical and narrative program reports.

Moreover, the role includes assisting in producing, developing, advertising, and marketing projects and/or products across various media, including print and video. This may involve developing teaching materials, handouts, news releases, pamphlets, and brochures. The individual will also assist in establishing and implementing short- and long-range goals, objectives, policies, and operating procedures.

Collaboration with university departments, programs, projects, local and state school systems, and community organizations is essential to consolidate resources and enhance programs. The individual will help develop and implement policies and procedures consistent with the organization to ensure the efficient operation of the program/project, and will perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE: Knowledge of contracts and grants preparation and management. Knowledge of management principles and practices.;
SKILLS: Skill in the use of computers, preferably in a PC, Windows-based operating environment. Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community. Program planning and implementation skills. Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities. Skill in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating policy, and developing and implementing new strategies and procedures. Employee development and performance management skills.;
ABILITIES: Ability to develop and maintain recordkeeping systems and procedures. Ability to provide technical coordination and management of development and/or implementation projects in area of expertise. Ability to gather data, compile information, and prepare reports. Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments. Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
 

Preferred Qualifications
Experience managing complex public programs, including experience with grants, reporting, or compliance.
Experience working with rural or agricultural communities, public entities, or technical assistance providers.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines.
Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
Demonstrated knowledge of water resource issues in the Southwest.
 

Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency
Required Education: Bachelor's degree in a related field.; Required Experience: Five (5) years of professional experience related to the standard duties as outlined.; Equivalency: None; Required Certification/License:
 

Special Requirements of the Position
Must be able to obtain an NMSU driving permit within 30 days of employment.
Must be able to travel as needed.
Work a standard schedule of hours between Monday and Friday, 8-5 (may change slightly depending on business needs).
 

EEO Statement
New Mexico State University does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, military service, or other non-merit factor.