University of California, Davis Cooperative Extension Area Orchard Systems Advisor; Almond

Position Overview

The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) invites applications for a UC Cooperative Extension Area Orchard Systems Advisor
, serving Stanislaus and San Joaquin Counties. The successful candidate will implement an innovative multi‑county extension education and applied research program that focuses on almonds and pistachios in Stanislaus County and peaches and apricots in Stanislaus and San Joaquin Counties. The disciplinary focus includes orchard production systems, nutrient management, pest management, water efficiency, and soil fertility and health.

• The advisor will support UC ANR’s public values of promoting economic prosperity, protecting natural resources, and building climate‑resilient communities by improving land management, soil quality, agricultural sustainability, and water use efficiency.

• Develop an applied research program to address critical issues such as irrigation and fertigation efficiency, rootstock and variety evaluation, cropping efficiency, soil health, invasive disease epidemics, and climate‑change mitigation strategies (e.g., groundwater recharge, biomass recycling).

• Create and implement an innovative extension program using traditional and modern tools to support the development of new practices and evaluation of existing practices that increase production efficiencies while protecting natural resources.

• Collaborate with farmers, allied industry, pest control advisors, commodity boards, federal and state agencies, and other stakeholders to deliver needs‑based education responsive to clientele preferences.

• Work collaboratively with Cooperative Extension Specialists, AES researchers, and other UCCE staff through various work groups to maximize statewide and local benefits.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of a master’s degree related to pomology, horticulture, plant science, or a related field.
• Qualified Pesticide Applicator Certificate (QAC) or License (QAL) prior to applying or overseeing pesticide application.
• Experience conducting applied research in agriculture, horticulture, or natural resources.
• Experience delivering educational and outreach programming.
• Experience in program and/or personnel management.
• Valid California Driver’s License and liability/property damage insurance for vehicle use; proof of insurance required.
• Authorised to work in the United States; visa sponsorship not available.
• Non‑remote position requiring presence at headquarters and travel to counties.

Additional Skills Required

• Ability to meet UC academic appointment criteria and demonstrate scholarly achievements.
• Interest in pursuing a career in UC Cooperative Extension.
• Technical competence to optimize engagement, design and implement impactful programs.
• Excellent written, oral, interpersonal, and IT communication skills.
• Collaboration, teamwork, and flexibility; ability to work with county staff, stakeholders, and colleagues.
• Lifelong learning and adaptability to industry, client, and organisational changes.

• Engagement with partner organizations to address orchard crop industry challenges.
• Communication with regional audiences including local officials, agricultural organisations, and natural resources agencies.
• Experience working with growers, cooperators, collaborators, and agency personnel.
• Planning applied research or evaluation projects, managing teams, and setting measurable goals.
• Experience with diverse socio‑economic and ethnic client populations.

Salary:
Assistant Rank, Step I ($85,600) to Step VI ($108,600). Step placement based on experience and qualifications. For full scale information, see the University of California website: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Benefits:
Comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans, two days per month paid vacation, one day per month paid sick leave, and paid holidays. Eligible for sabbatical leave as per University policy.

If interested, visit  and choose “applicants” (refer to position #24‑26). An in‑person finalist interview may be required as part of the search process.

Closing Date:
Applications must be received by January 3, 2026.

University of California Cooperative Extension

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by UC nondiscrimination policy.