NMDA Inspector Intermediate - Possible Career Development Opportunity

504135 NMSU satellite location, New Mexico, United States Staff Staff Full-time Closing at: Oct 23 2026 - 23:55 MDT Department Contact: Cheryl Mason-Herrera, 575-646-7523, cmason@nmda.nmsu.edu Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants Advertising Summary: The New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) works for the benefit of the state’s citizens and supports the viability of agriculture and affiliated industries. NMDA promotes food protection, a uniform, and fair marketplace, and global marketing and economic development; supports the beneficial use of natural resources; and works cooperatively with public and private sector entities. Opportunities for excellence abound, and NMDA staff dedicate themselves to proactive service in fulfilling the department’s mission. Each division plays an important role in carrying out the goals and objectives. Our rich agricultural history, culture, and traditions are addressed through new and innovative approaches using the latest in science, technology, and economic strategies. In New Mexico, we contribute to the safest and most affordable, and nutritious food supply on the globe. NMDA is a constitutional agency organized under the Board of Regents of New Mexico State University (NMSU). This unique relationship creates efficiencies and opportunities for New Mexico’s food and agriculture sector as well as service and outreach opportunities for NMSU, making NMDA an integral part of the university. NMDA/NMSU is an equal opportunity employer. Position Details Position Title: NMDA Inspector Intermediate - Possible Career Development Opportunity College/Division: New Mexico Dept of Agriculture Department: 180850-NMDA MARKETING AND DEVELOP DIVISION Location: NMSU satellite location Offsite Location (if applicable): Portales, NM Target Hourly/Salary Rate: Entry level NMDA Inspector Inter ($53,165.80) or Associate ($48,332.54) Appointment Full-time Equivalency: 1.0 FLSA Status : Exempt Bargaining Unit Announcement: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME). Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon funding Standard Work Schedule: Standard (M-F, 8-5) If Not a Standard Work Schedule: Job Duties and Responsibilities: Services provided by this position will include regular and seasonal agricultural commodity inspections; USDA Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Good Handling Practices (GHP) audits; Harmonized GAP Plus+ audits; USDA procurement inspections; and market inspections. The program operates under a cooperative agreement with the USDA and under the authority of the New Mexico Produce Marketing Act, Chapter 76, Article 15. Conducts quality and condition inspections of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and related commodities at terminal markets, warehouses, railroad sidings, packaging facilities, and other distribution sites to determine product quality and compliance with applicable standards. Examines commodities to determine official U.S. grade and product acceptability using established inspection procedures, USDA grading standards, the New Mexico Produce Marketing Act, and applicable regulations. Applies standard inspection methods and exercises sound judgment when evaluating product quality, documenting findings, and preparing official inspection reports. This position serves as an integral member of the inspection team located at the Peanut Grading Station (PGS) in Portales, New Mexico. Performs inspections of peanuts, potatoes, onions, pecans, and other agricultural commodities using USDA grading standards and established NMDA procedures. Conducts authorized third-party audits under USDA GAP, GHP, and Harmonized GAP Plus+ standards in accordance with established program guidelines, licensing requirements, and reporting procedures. Communicates inspection and audit findings to producers, shippers, facility personnel, and other industry representatives and provides information regar…

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