Programs Manager

Job Description

Help Move New Mexico Toward a Better Future

Are you ready to lead complex programs that shape the future of New Mexico’s public schools? We are seeking a motivated, mission-driven professional to manage our Funding Programs Department — a critical part of how New Mexico supports safe, effective public school facilities across the state.

As Funding Programs Manager, you will oversee the daily operations of the department, including the solicitation, processing, and administration of grant applications submitted by school districts. You’ll provide guidance on how funding can be used under state law—helping districts determine whether and how to pursue building system replacements, new construction, or other eligible improvements.

This position requires a combination of program management skills, analytical thinking, and strong interpersonal abilities. You’ll need to build supportive relationships with school districts, provide clear and diplomatic guidance, and ensure that funding decisions and project scopes align with program requirements, available resources, and school needs. You will also supervise one or more employees and work closely with internal PSFA leadership.

A high level of independent judgment, responsiveness, and attention to detail is essential.

Ideal Candidate

We’re looking for someone who is :

• Organized and process-driven – able to evaluate and improve workflows.
• Analytical – able to turn data into clear information to support sound decisions.
• Diplomatic – able to work effectively with school districts, the PSFA’s governing council, and other stakeholders even if conversations are challenging.
• Comfortable working with building systems, floor plans, and project scoping, whether through prior experience or a willingness to learn.
• Skilled at public speaking and written communication, including preparing and delivering reports and presentations to leadership bodies.
• Interested in public service, particularly in helping New Mexico’s schools access resources fairly and effectively.

Minimum Education and Experience

A background in architecture, construction, or planning is helpful, but not required. Success in this role depends more on your ability to learn quickly, think systematically, and communicate clearly than on formal credentials. However, you must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and at least seven (7) years of professional experience with increasing responsibility for managing projects or programs. A master’s degree is preferred. Experience or education may be substituted for one another at the discretion of the Director.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required

Leadership & Judgement

Organization & Process Management

Communication & Interpersonal Skills

Financial & Administrative Knowledge

Technical & Analytical Skills

Technology Skills

Learning & Adaptability

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

contract administration.

diverse community.

leadership.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

A background in architecture, construction, or planning is helpful, but not required. Success in this role depends more on your ability to learn quickly, think systematically, and communicate clearly than on formal credentials. However, you must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and at least seven (7) years of professional experience with increasing responsibility for managing projects or programs. A master’s degree is preferred. Experience or education may be substituted for one another at the discretion of the Director.

Salary : 85k-93k (DOE)