Agricultural Education Specialist; CES Hansen REC Camarillo, CA,

Position: Agricultural Education Specialist (CES 3) Hansen REC Camarillo, CA, Job ID 81653
Agricultural Education Specialist (CES
3) Hansen REC Camarillo, CA, Job

University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources

Job Description

The Community Education Specialist 3 (CES
3) position will be located at the University of California (UC) Hansen Agricultural Research and Extension Center (HAREC) and will work closely with UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE), Ventura County. HAREC's mission is to support sustainable agriculture and natural resources on the Central Coast through research, education, and community outreach. The UCCE in Ventura County's mission is to support the county through applied research and education in agriculture, natural resources, and youth development.

The CES 3 will collaboratively develop, coordinate, and evaluate an effective outreach and education program to increase agricultural literacy among the public and other stakeholders in Ventura County. The program will be based at the Hansen Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Camarillo, CA, with countywide activities as appropriate. The CES 3 will also participate in the development of a strategic plan for enhancing agricultural education pathways and public awareness and appreciation of agriculture in the County.

The strategic planning process will include an Agricultural Education Summit and focus groups with educational and nonprofit institutions in Ventura County. The CES 3 will develop and maintain a collaborative network of educational institutions and nonprofits, acting as a bridge between partner organizations to develop and enhance collaborative projects and funds development. The clientele being served are the general public, teachers, students and professionals working in public and non-profit sectors.

The CES 3 reports to the UC HAREC Director, with secondary reporting to the UC Cooperative Extension Area Director for Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties.

This position is a two-year contract appointment that is 100% fixed.

Pay Scale: $51,600.00/year to $69,300.00/year

Job Posting Close Date:
This job is open until filled. The first application review date will be 10/27/2025.

Key Responsibilities:

50%

Develop plans for new education and outreach programs at HAREC/UCCE to increase knowledge and awareness of agriculture and food origins among youth and the general public in collaboration with UCCE Advisors, 4-H Youth Development and UC Master Gardener programs, and local partner organizations.

Organize, conduct and evaluate educational activities at HAREC and other locations in Ventura County, including development of new curriculum or adaptation of existing curriculum. Examples of activities include farm field trips, summer camps, demonstration days, educational curriculum adaptation (e.g., Ag in the Classroom) in local school districts, and support for school gardens and farm-to-school efforts. Programs may be developed in collaboration with UCCE Advisors and UC statewide programs.

Assist in the short- and long-term planning and design of facilities for future educational activities at HAREC, including a demonstration kitchen and indoor and outdoor education areas.

25%
Participate in developing a strategic plan for Agricultural Education in Ventura County as part of a Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation (SALC) grant. As part of strategic plan development, participate in an Agricultural Education Summit and focus group meetings and help moderate breakout sessions. Collaborate with local partners in enhancing agricultural education pathways and agricultural awareness efforts in the County.
15%
Participate in and evaluate impact of educational and outreach events for HAREC/UCCE. Assist in event planning and publicizing educational and outreach events for HAREC/UCCE, such as agricultural extension meetings, Ventura County Farm Day, Agri-Tech Fair, Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, Oxnard Insect Festival, etc.
10%
Develop and maintain a network of educational institutions and non-profits involved in agricultural education and awareness activities in Ventura County, acting as a bridge between partner organizations.

Requirements:

• Associate degree in agriculture, environmental science, nutrition, education, psychology, sociology, community development or related field / or equivalent experience / training
• Continuing education in related field
• Thorough knowledge and experience implementing programs and developing educational materials to meet organizational needs
• Experience working with diverse youth, family and/or community audiences
• Experience collaborating with multiple community organizations
• Ability to maintain positive interactions with others and work cooperatively
• Experience in organizing, coordinating, and publicizing events
• Thorough and effective verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills and presentation skills
• Thorough analytical skills to conduct analysis and develop recommendations, demonstrating organization and problem-solving skills
• Thorough knowledge of and skill in delivering programs,…