The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) offers a unique recruitment opportunity for an Assistant Specialist in Agriculture Production and Natural Resource Management. UC ANR operates a statewide network of researchers, educators and support staff dedicated to the development and application of knowledge to address local agricultural, environmental and (community) health issues. Research, outreach and education from locally based Cooperative Extension offices serves all 58 counties from 70+ locations throughout the state. Our mission is to bring the power of the University of California directly to Californians through research, extension and education programs that support:
Sustainable, safe, and nutritious food production and delivery
Economic success in a global economy
A sustainable, healthy, and productive environment
Science literacy and youth development
By working and living among those we serve, UC ANR expands the University of California's reach to engage all people and communities in California, ensuring equal access to the UC system.
Purpose:
The Assistant Specialist (1.0 FTE) will assist in all phases of applied research and extension activities related to livestock production, rangeland health, crop production, irrigation, soil health, and fire-resistant landscapes in the Central Sierra region. The position will be headquartered at the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Amador County office in Jackson, CA. The candidate will also have opportunities to participate in national and statewide collaborative project activities.
Responsibilities:
The Assistant Specialist will provide independent support of research and extension programming by designing, conducting and communicating results from applied research in projects locally relevant. The Assistant Specialist will focus on several grant funded research projects including: 1) examining virtual fence technology for sustainable grazing management and reduced wildfire risk 2) research examining the potential benefits of adding compost to annual rangelands; 2) research examining the effects of soil amendments, soil water potential, and soil temperature on truffle production in the Sierra Nevada; 3) assist with genetic analysis of Tuber melanosporum and mating types; 4) examining the efficacy of grazing, burning and mastication for fuels reduction; 5) examining the efficacy of several chemical and non-chemical control methods for brush regrowth following a fuel break installation; and 6) other research and extension projects pending funding approval.
The position will provide extension support to farmers, ranchers, landowners and agency personnel related to grant funded projects. Research duties will focus on field trials at collaborating farms, ranchers and private property and will include project design, data collection, use of specialized equipment, travel to farms, data analysis, and preparation of grant reports. Extension and outreach duties will include development of educational materials, participation in policy communications, and presentations at extension meetings.
Reporting Relationship: The Assistant Specialist is administratively responsible to the Agriculture and Natural Resources Advisor in the Central Sierra, Amador County. Required Qualifications and Skills Required Qualifications:
Education: A Master's degree or other advanced degrees in disciplines in genetics, plant science, or a closely related field, and/or a Bachelor's degree with five years of relevant experience demonstrating expertise is required by the appointment start date. Specialty and/or professional experience must demonstrate capacity or potential to accomplish team-based research and education programs consistent with the values of Cooperative Extension.
Additional Qualifications:
This is not a remote position. The candidate must be available to work onsite.
Ability and means to travel on a flexible schedule as needed, proof of liability and property damage insurance on vehicle used is required. Must possess valid California Driver's License to drive a County or University vehicle.
Academic coursework and/or work experience in genetics, animal science, and cropping systems required.
Strong quantitative skills, experience in statistical analysis of data, and familiarity with field-based methods of data collection in agricultural research.
Prior experience in applied research and extension.
Excellent time management skills and the ability to manage multiple project tasks.
Ability to build partnerships working with multidisciplinary teams.
Desired Qualifications:
Demonstrated excellence in the areas of applied research and extension;
Evidence of publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals;
Knowledge and experience in preparing DNA extractions and performing PCR;
Knowledge and experience working with and handling livestock;
Experience in report writing, public speaking, and extension are preferred.
Skills Required: To be successful, the Assistant Specialist requires skills in the following areas:
Technical Competence and Impact
Interact with collaborating scientists to achieve project objectives.
Collect and analyze data for agency reporting and journal publications
Participate in extension education and outreach activities.
Communication
Demonstrated excellence in written, oral, interpersonal and information technology communication skills.
Skills to communicate and extend technical information to diverse audiences are required.
Ability to give presentations at seminars and continuing education functions.
Collaboration, Teamwork and Flexibility
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as a team member with others.
Able to adapt as circumstances warranted.
Promote diversity, equity and inclusion.
Lifelong Learning
Demonstrated commitment to ongoing self-improvement - both professionally and as a person.
About UC ANR
The University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) consists of a network of scientists and educators working in partnership across the California. We are committed to developing and supporting healthy food systems, healthy environments, healthy communities, and healthy Californians. UC ANR administers UC Cooperative Extension UCCE), which is responsible for program development and delivery in the counties throughout the state of California.
Affirmative Action: Further to the above, all UC ANR academics are expected to share and exhibit UC ANR's commitment to affirmative action. Learn more of UC ANR Affirmative Action policy: http://ucanr.edu/sites/anrstaff/Diversity/Affirmative_Action/
The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and will honor your experiences, perspectives and unique identity. We encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQ+ community members, and others who demonstrate the ability to help us create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable and welcoming.
The Assistant Specialist position is a non-career track position. The position is a one-year term appointment with a merit cycle every two years. The performance in the position will be evaluated annually. The position will be extended based on the continued need for the position, performance and availability of funding.
Benefits: The University of California offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, two days per month paid vacation, one day per month paid sick leave, and holidays. For more information, refer to the UC Benefits website at: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html How to Apply
If interested in this position, please visit: https://recruit.ucanr.edu/ and choose “applicants” (refer to position #23-03)
Closing Date: To assure full consideration, application packets must be received by May 19, 2023 (open until filled). Questions?
Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) for the duration of the appointment period.
University of California Cooperative Extension
As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs - With Updated Interim Amendments. All Covered Individuals under the policy must provide proof of receiving the COVID-19 Vaccine Primary Series or, if applicable, submit a request for Exception (based on Medical Exemption, Disability, Religious Objection, and/or Deferral based on pregnancy or recent COVID-19 diagnosis and/or treatment) no later than the applicable deadline. All Covered Individuals must also provide proof of receiving the most recent CDC-recommended COVID-19 booster or properly decline such booster no later than the applicable deadline. New University of California employees should refer to Exhibit 2, Section II.C. of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Attachment for applicable deadlines. All Covered Individuals must also provide proof of being Up-To-Date on seasonal influenza vaccination or properly decline such vaccination no later than the applicable deadline. Please refer to the Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Program Attachment. (Capitalized terms in this paragraph are defined in the policy.) Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.
As of January 1, 2014, ANR is a smoke- and tobacco-free environment in which smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes), is strictly prohibited.
About University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources
The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) consists of a network of scientists and educators working in partnership across the California. We are committed to developing and supporting healthy food systems, healthy environments, healthy communities, and healthy Californians. UC ANR administers UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE), which is responsible for program development and delivery in the counties throughout the state of California.