"Archival Research Specialist, Food and Wine"

Position Overview: A reasonable estimate for this position is $72,224-$102,121.

The Library of the University of California, Davis, seeks a forward-looking and entrepreneurial professional to join our team as Archival Research Specialist, Food and Wine, and advance the library's efforts to synthesize and interpret the history of wine in California. This is a two-year role with the potential for renewal contingent on available funding.

Reporting to the Associate University Librarian for Scholarly Resources, and working deeply with the Curator for Food and Wine, this position will take a strategic role in interpreting a signature archival collection at the UC Davis Library, the W. Andrew "Andy" Beckstoffer Papers. This collection has already been fully archivally processed and comprises 37 linear feet of materials, including the corporate records of Beckstoffer Vineyards, correspondence, land assessor maps, and some photographs. The bulk of the collection focuses on Andy Beckstoffer's work within the grape industry and in Napa Valley agricultural land preservation efforts, as well as his role in the establishment of organizations such as the Napa Valley Grape Growers Association (currently known as the Napa Valley Grapegrowers) and the Rutherford Dust Society. Also included are materials on the To Kalon vineyard, including lawsuits with Robert Mondavi Winery. There is also a small amount of material on labor unions, Cesar Chavez, and the United Farm Workers. More information about this archival collection can be found online.

The key deliverables for this position include the writing of a long-form article (intended for scholarly and/or lay publication) interpreting and synthesizing Beckstoffer's contributions; the planning and execution of both tangible and online exhibits showcasing this archival collection; and playing a leadership role in the planning of a signature donor event celebrating Beckstoffer and the exhibits. This position will play a key role in both the selection and interpretation of materials for both exhibits and an attendant digital collection.

Depending on the interest and experience of the incumbent, this position may also take a leadership role in gathering oral histories from key persons with knowledge of Andy Beckstoffer's life and leadership in the Napa Valley.

Working with significant input from the Curator, Food and Wine, this position may also take on other responsibilities in the Food and Wine Program, including but not limited to conducting oral histories beyond the scope of the Beckstoffer project; building physical and online exhibits; contributing to outreach activities around food and wine; and assisting with tours and social media promotion. As a member of the Food and Wine Program, the incumbent may also collaborate with others in the library on appropriate projects.

The University will not offer visa sponsorship for this position. The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate that they are legally authorized to work in the United States.

Position Responsibilities: Under the general supervision of the Associate University Librarian for Scholarly Resources, and working closely with the Curator for Food and Wine, the incumbent will:

• Become deeply familiar with the Beckstoffer archival collection
• Become deeply familiar with key figures in the Napa Valley region: Conduct oral histories with key persons with knowledge of Andy Beckstoffer's life and leadership in the Napa Valley OR work with the Curator, Food and Wine to ensure these oral histories are conducted; Gain deep familiarity with the content of relevant oral histories; Travel regionally to meet key figures and attend relevant meetings and events
• Author a long-form article (intended for scholarly and/or lay publication) interpreting and synthesizing Beckstoffer's contributions
• Plan and execute both tangible and online exhibits showcasing this archival collection, including selection and interpretation of materials, and selecting materials for an attendant digital collection
• Play a leadership role in the planning of a signature donor event celebrating Beckstoffer and the exhibits
• Represent the UC Davis Library in interactions with significant figures in Napa Valley and elsewhere
• Carry out other duties and responsibilities, as assigned

The incumbent may also: Contribute to the work of the UC Davis Library through participation in committees, task forces, and other collaborative projects; Participate in national and international professional organizations and activities; As an academic appointee, engage actively in pertinent ongoing research, scholarship, or creative activity and/or teaching, including peer review, dissemination, and corresponding university and disciplinary engagement

Salary and Benefits: Rank and salary: Assistant Librarian, Salary Point 1, $72,224 to Associate Librarian, Salary Point 10, $102,121 (Appointment rank and salary based on qualifications and experience.) The incumbent will be a member of the LX Collective Bargaining Unit represented by the University Council - American Federation of Teachers (UC-AFT). Benefits: The University of California is one of the largest employers in California, and offers outstanding health and retirement benefits to its employees and their families. Librarians are academic appointees and earn 24 days of vacation and 12 days of sick leave per year. In addition, there are 13 university holidays.

Application Information: Candidates applying by October 28, 2025 will receive first consideration. The position will remain open until filled. Please include a letter of interest addressing qualifications and experience related to the position, a Curriculum Vitae, and names and contact information for at least four references. To apply, visit https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF07364. The University of California is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. UC Davis is a smoke- and tobacco-free campus effective January 1, 2014.