University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources

Compensation

Full Description

Job Title: UC Cooperative Extension Specialist - Produce Safety Systems Company Overview: The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) is a leading institution dedicated to advancing agricultural innovation, sustainability, and education. With a strong commitment to community engagement and scientific research, UC ANR supports California’s diverse agricultural industry through cutting-edge programs and expert knowledge. Role Overview: As a UC Cooperative Extension Specialist focused on Produce Safety Systems, you will play a critical role in developing and implementing research-based solutions to enhance produce safety. Located at the USDA-ARS Sam Farr United States Crop Improvement and Protection Center in Salinas, CA, you will collaborate with growers, industry stakeholders, and regulatory agencies to promote safe and sustainable produce production practices. What You'll Do: - You will conduct applied research on produce safety systems to address current challenges in the industry. - You will develop and deliver educational programs and materials to growers and agricultural professionals. - You will collaborate with federal, state, and local agencies to align produce safety initiatives with regulatory standards. - You will engage with diverse stakeholders to facilitate knowledge exchange and adoption of best practices. - You will publish research findings in scientific journals and present at industry conferences. - You will provide technical assistance and consultation to support produce safety improvements. - You will contribute to grant writing and securing funding for ongoing research projects. - You will mentor students and extension staff to build capacity in produce safety expertise. What You Bring: - A Ph.D. in Plant Sciences, Food Safety, Agricultural Engineering, or a related field. - At least 3 years of postdoctoral or professional experience in produce safety or related agricultural research. - Strong knowledge of produce safety regulations, including FDA Produce Safety Rule and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). - Proven ability to conduct interdisciplinary research and extension activities. - Excellent communication skills for diverse audiences, including growers, scientists, and policymakers. - Experience with grant writing and project management. Bonus Points If You Have: - Experience working directly with produce growers and industry stakeholders in California. - Familiarity with microbial risk assessment and foodborne pathogen detection methods. - Established network within agricultural regulatory agencies and extension services. - Bilingual skills, particularly in Spanish, to engage with diverse farming communities. What We Offer: - We offer a collaborative and supportive work environment committed to professional growth. - We offer competitive salary and comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and retirement plans. - We offer opportunities to lead impactful research projects with real-world applications. - We offer access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources at the USDA-ARS Sam Farr Center. - We offer flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance. Ready to Apply? To apply, please submit your CV, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references through the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources online application portal. Review of applications begins May 27, 2025. For more information, visit our careers page at [UC ANR Careers].