"UC Cooperative Extension Orchard Systems Advisor (Cherries, Walnuts, Olives, Apples) AP 25-21"

Position Overview

The University of California division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) invites applications for a UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Orchard Systems Advisor, in the Assistant Rank, serving San Joaquin and Stanislaus Counties. The successful candidate will develop and implement an innovative applied research and extension education program that will focus on walnut and sweet cherry production. Disciplinary focus will be on production systems, integrated pest management, nutrient management, irrigation management and efficiency, business strategies, soil fertility and health, and mitigating the impacts of climate change. The position will also include sweet cherry in Sacramento County and area wide responsibilities for olives (oil and table), and several other smaller-acreage crops including apples, prunes, persimmons, and pomegranates. San Joaquin County is the statewide leader in both cherry and walnut production and the advisor would be expected to develop a regional and statewide expertise on these crops, providing leadership within ANR. This position will work with commercial organic, regenerative, and conventional production and marketing systems.

UCCE Advisors are responsible for applied research and the extension of knowledge. Research activities are applied, needs-based, mission-oriented, and focused on addressing our communities' challenges. Extension activities are educational practices Advisors use to share research results directly with their clientele and communities.

Location Headquarters

This position will be headquartered in the UCCE Office in San Joaquin County located at 2101 E. Earhart Ave. #200, Stockton, CA 95206.

Counties of Responsibility

San Joaquin and Stanislaus Counties.

Qualifications and Skills Required

Required Qualifications

• Education: A minimum of a master's degree in pomology, production horticulture, pest management or a closely related field is required at the time of appointment.
• Experience in conducting applied research in agriculture, horticulture or natural resources.
• Experience delivering educational and outreach programming.
• Experience in program and/or personnel management.
• The CE Advisor must possess or obtain a Qualified Pesticide Applicator Certificate (QAC) or License (QAL) prior to applying or supervising the application of any pesticide.
• Ability and means to travel on a flexible schedule as needed, proof of liability, and property damage insurance on the vehicle used is required. Must possess or obtain a valid California Driver's License.
• We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time. Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. at the time of hire.
• This is not a remote position.

Additional Skills Required

• Applicants need to meet appointment criteria for the respective University of California academic title series.
• Interest in and desire to pursue a career in UC Cooperative Extension.
• Technical Competence and Impact: The candidate should understand key concepts related to horticultural production practices, small farm economics and other related topics suitable for the area.
• Communication: Demonstrated excellence in written, oral, interpersonal and information technology communication skills.
• Collaboration, Teamwork and Flexibility: The candidate should demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively.

Desired Experience

• Ability to effectively engage with partner organizations.
• Experience working with grower cooperators, collaborators and agency personnel.

Salary & Benefits

Salary: The salary range for this Cooperative Extension Advisor position is Assistant Rank, Step I ($85,600) to Step VI ($108,600). Salary scales.

Benefits: Comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays. Eligible for sabbatical leave. UC Benefits.

Application Window

Open date: October 30, 2025
Most recent review date: Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Final date: Tuesday, Feb 3, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

How to Apply

Visit: https://recruit.ucanr.edu/JPF00343 and choose 'applicants' (refer to position #25-21).
Closing Date: January 3, 2026 (open until filled).

Application Requirements

• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter
• Statement of Research and Extension
• References - 3 required (contact information only)
• College Level Transcripts

Questions? Contact Mikyla Perez at mikperez@ucanr.edu