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 community engagement across California. With a strong commitment to research, education, and outreach, UC ANR supports farmers, industry professionals, and communities to improve agricultural practices and food safety. Role Overview: As a UC Cooperative Extension Specialist in 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 diverse stakeholders to promote safe agricultural practices and protect public health. What You'll Do: - You will conduct applied research on produce safety systems to identify risks and develop mitigation strategies. - You will engage with growers, industry partners, and regulatory agencies to disseminate best practices and educational materials. - You will design and lead extension programs that support compliance with produce safety regulations. - You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate scientific findings into practical solutions. - You will provide training and technical assistance to stakeholders to improve produce safety standards. - You will publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences. - You will secure funding through grant writing to support ongoing research and extension activities. - You will contribute to policy development related to produce safety and agricultural practices. What You Bring: - You have a Ph.D. in Plant Sciences, Food Safety, Agricultural Engineering, or a related field. - You have at least 3 years of postdoctoral or professional experience in produce safety or related agricultural research. - You possess strong knowledge of produce safety regulations, including the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). - You have demonstrated experience in designing and implementing extension programs. - You have excellent communication skills for diverse audiences, including growers and policymakers. - You are proficient in grant writing and securing research funding. Bonus Points If You Have: - Experience working within cooperative extension systems or agricultural outreach programs. - Familiarity with the USDA-ARS research environment and collaborative projects. - Skills in data analysis and use of statistical software relevant to agricultural research. - Multilingual abilities to engage with diverse agricultural communities. What We Offer: - We offer a dynamic and supportive work environment at a premier research and extension center. - We offer opportunities for professional growth and leadership in agricultural research and extension. - We offer competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans. - We offer flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance. - We offer access to cutting-edge research facilities and collaborative networks. Ready to Apply? Submit your application through the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources career portal by the specified deadline. Please include your resume, cover letter, and references. For more information, visit our website or contact our HR department.