Citrus IPM Research & Outreach Specialist

Application Window

Open date: March 30, 2026

Most recent review date: Wednesday, Apr 22, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.

Final date: Monday, May 25, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

Position Overview:

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The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) is seeking a Junior Specialist to work in the Lindcove Research and Extension Center, Exceter, California.

The UC ANR Junior Specialist will work with Area IPM Advisor in applied research and extension programs addressing issues related to integrated pest management of arthropod pests in citrus. The candidate will work to develop methods to test different management practices on citrus pests in laboratory, greenhouse, and field trials to meet the pest management needs of citrus growers in the San Joaquin Valley.

The candidate will participate in and contribute to extension and outreach activities to disseminate findings on new management solutions that benefit growers, pest control advisors, and field scouts, and get feedback and identify gaps and challenges faced by growers.

Duties include:

Research (75%)

* Undertake and support applied research on integrated pest management of citrus crops in the San Joaquin Valley sustainable systems.

* Meet weekly with PI and project collaborators to discuss results and interpretations of data collected to plan future projects and experiments.

* Design greenhouse experiments, oversee insect colonies, conduct experiments, collect and analyze data.

Extension (20%)

* Provide and coordinate outreach and assistance to citrus industry stakeholders.

* Develop tools and resources that support education and assistance for growers, pest control advisors, and those that serve them.

* Attend seminars on topics related to fields of interest.

* Participate in training programs to enhance knowledge and skills.

University and Public Service (5%)

* Lead tours, give presentations, and provide training to visiting scientists, industry representatives, and undergraduate students.

* Participate in activities of committees within the department, college, campus, and other University entities, as appropriate.

Reporting Relationship:
The Junior Specialist will be administratively responsible to the Area Citrus IPM Advisor.

Location Headquarters:
Lindcove REC, Exceter, California.

Required Qualifications and Skills

Required Qualifications

Education:

A Bachelor degree in relevant field, including Plant Sciences, Entomology, Pest Management, Agriculture or a closely related field.

Additional Qualifications:

* Interest in and desire to pursue a career in UC Cooperative Extension.

* Excellent communication and organizational skills.

* Ability and means to travel on a flexible schedule as needed, proof of liability and property damage insurance on vehicle used is required. Must possess or obtain a valid California Driver's License to drive a County or University Vehicle.

* This is not a remote position. The candidate must be available to work onsite. In accordance with UC ANR Flexible Work Guidelines, flexible greements are available upon approval by supervisors and periodic re-evaluation.

* Understanding of and commitment to equal opportunity and diversity, equity and inclusion.

* Ability to work independently in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever-changing clientele and project needs.

* Applicants must have unrestricted and permanent work authorization in the United States. 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, without additional sponsorship. Internal UC ANR applicants with questions may contact Katie Kilbane at klkilbane.

* A background investigation will be required for the successful candidate, including fingerprinting and a criminal history clearance by the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This position is subject to the requirements and compliance of the California's Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA). Employment within UC ANR is contingent upon securing written acknowledgement to comply with California law.

* As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment,…