Specialty Crops Cooperative Extension Advisor

~ The Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) is a statewide network of University of California researchers and educators dedicated to the creation, development and application of knowledge in agricultural, natural and human resources. ~

The University of California's Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources is the bridge between local issues and the power of UC Research. ANR's advisors, specialists and faculty bring practical, science-based answers to Californians.

ANR works hand in hand with industry to enhance agricultural markets, help the balance of trade, address environmental concerns, protect plant health, and provide farmers with scientifically tested production techniques and Californians with increased food safety.

Position Overview

The Area Cooperative Extension (CE) Advisor for specialty crops will conduct a locally-based extension and applied research program with a broad focus on problem-solving, applied research and extension educational programming for small, medium, and large scale commercial farmers.

Responsibilities

• This position will provide expertise in all aspects of crop production including soils, irrigation, crop scheduling, nutrition, and integrated pest management with an emphasis on high value specialty crops that promote economic viability in these urban edge counties.
• The CE advisor will also address critical issues related to the sustainability of agriculture in the San Francisco Bay Area (SFBA) such as marketing, agri-tourism, local food networks, ag-urban interface problems, agricultural land conservation, new farmer education, compliance with food safety, labor, pesticide, and water quality regulations.
• The CE advisor will also provide technical support in helping craft agricultural land use and other policies that support East Bay Agriculture, and sharing other model agricultural policies proven helpful elsewhere in a balanced and objective manner.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

Programmatic Competence:

• A minimum of an earned master's degree, though other advanced degrees are encouraged, in disciplines such as plant science, agricultural crop science, horticulture, agronomy or a closely related field, is required by the appointment start date.
• Applicants who are currently enrolled in a masters program must be within 12 months of completing their degree in order to be considered.

Communication:

• Excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication skills are required.

Collaboration, Teamwork & Flexibility:

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as a team member with other professionals
• Willingness and ability to embrace change as clientele and organizational needs evolve.

Desired Qualifications:

• Practical experience in crop production, marketing, and familiarity with organic practices is desirable.
• An understanding of the unique challenges facing agriculture on the urban edge and the ability to build partnerships and work with multidisciplinary teams to address these challenges is desirable.

Additional Information

Academic Expectations:

All UC ANR CE academic appointees are responsible for performance in the areas of:

• Applied research and creative activity
• Extending knowledge and information
• Professional competence and activity
• University and public service

Affirmative Actions:

• An understanding of and commitment to UC ANRs affirmative action goals and commitments is expected of all CE advisors. Compliance with affirmative action policies includes supporting outreach efforts to underserved and underrepresented audiences.
• UC ANR Affirmative Action policy and information can be found here.

Contact: 

• Kimberly Ingram, (530) 750-1282

Compensation

• Beginning salary will be in the Cooperative Extension Assistant Advisor Rank and commensurate with applicable experience and professional qualifications.
• For information regarding Cooperative Extension Advisor salary scales, please refer to the University of California website.

To Apply

Please click "Apply" below to electronically submit the following six components of the Application Packet:

• Cover Letter
• ANR Academic Application Form from the ANR website. Please do not send letters of reference.
• CV or Resume
• Statement of Contributions to Diversity: Please submit a 1-page Statement of Contributions to Diversity addressing past and/or potential contributions to diversity through personal experience, teaching, research, extension, professional activity, and/or service. This should include how you would ensure that all potential clientele have access and benefit from your program.
• Statement of Research and Extension Interests: Please submit a 2-page Statement of Research and Extension Interests including how your current and/or past research and extension experience could contribute to, or be applicable to, the needs of the local community. Provide examples of potential goals and outcomes from your research and extension activities
• College Level Transcripts: Electronic transcripts or legible scanned copies (PDF) of original transcripts will be accepted. Transcripts must identify course work completed, grades earned, degrees conferred and confer dates. Please DO NOT send transcripts that are password protected.