Junior Specialist represented - Lindcove Research and Extension Center; AP

Application Window

Open date: March 30, 2026

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

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

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 the Area IPM Advisor in applied research and extension programs addressing issues related to integrated pest management of arthropod pests in citrus. The candidate will 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 gather feedback to identify gaps and challenges faced by growers.

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.

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

Headquarters:
Lindcove REC, Exceter, California.

Required Qualifications

• Education:
  
  A Bachelor degree in a 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. Flexible agreements 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. No sponsorship will be provided.
• A background investigation will be required, including fingerprinting and a criminal history clearance by the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The position is subject to the requirements and compliance of California’s Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA).
• As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years related to misconduct, being investigated for misconduct, or leaving a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct.

Skills Required

• Professional Competence and Activity — Participate in outreach activities, help academics organize client meetings and field days, prepare extension publications, contribute to blogs and…