"UC Cooperative Extension Specialist - Beef Cattle Production - Browns Valley, CA (AP 26-11)"

Position Overview

The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) invites applications for a UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Specialist at the Assistant rank. The specialist will create a robust research and extension program across the UC ANR network to support California's beef cattle industry, one of the nation's leading producers with approximately 1.8 million head of beef cattle and over 10,000 producers.

Location Headquarters

Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center, 8279 Scott Forbes Road, Browns Valley, CA 95918.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Collaborate with UC ANR's network of advisors, specialists, AES faculty, statewide programs, institutes, and external stakeholders (e.g., California Cattle Council, California Cattlemen's Association) to conduct applied research and disseminate results on beef cattle production, sustainable systems, and small-holder systems.
• Educate on science-based research, policy, and issues via conferences, workshops, web-based programs.
• Design and conduct innovative applied research on areas such as animal health/reproduction/management, beef quality assurance, nutrition, byproduct utilization, genetic improvement, marketing, sustainable grazing.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals (e.g., Journal of Animal Science, Frontiers in Animal Science), ANR outlets, industry publications.
• Participate in professional societies for state/national/international recognition.

Geographic Area of Responsibility

State-wide across California.

Qualifications and Skills Required

Education: Ph.D. (or equivalent) in animal science, ruminant nutrition, animal biology, or related field required at appointment.

Key Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience/interest in animal agriculture, beef cattle production, research.
• Excellent communication skills for diverse audiences.
• Record of research productivity (peer-reviewed publications).
• Engagement with diverse stakeholders; leading collaborative teams.
• Valid CA Driver's License; US work authorization required.

Desired Experience: Integrated research/extension; securing funding; outreach/science communication.

Salary & Benefits

Assistant Cooperative Extension Specialist Rank: Step 1 - $90,600 to Step 6 - $118,500 annually. Comprehensive UC benefits, vacation, sick leave, holidays, sabbatical eligibility.

Application Window

Open: March 23, 2026
Next review: May 6, 2026
Final: Aug 1, 2026 (open until filled).

Application Requirements

• Curriculum Vitae
• Statement of Research (2-page)
• References (3 required)
• College Transcripts

Apply via UC Recruit (position #26-11)

Contact: Katie Kilbane (klkilbane@ucanr.edu)