Farmer Water Justice Clinic; Clinic - Fellow; LEGAL SVC Advisor

Job : 84628

Location: Davis

Full/Part Time: Full Time

Under the direction of the Clinic Director, the Fellow shall engage with small farmers or farmer coalitions to discuss groundwater allocations and markets. The Fellow will research specific Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) proposals for allocation and/or groundwater market development. Subject to the Director's review and approval, the Fellow shall provide legal analysis and assistance to ensure that small farmers are informed of legal issues and options associated with any ongoing or contemplated groundwater adjudications.

Subject to the Director's review and approval, the Fellow shall develop a comprehensive collection of groundwater markets in California, research them, and present a summary of the best market practices to assist the underrepresented small farmer community. With the Director's approval, the Fellow shall provide an overview of legal options for groundwater allocation or markets for small farmers to discuss with their separate legal counsel.

Apply By Date: March 12, 2026 at 11:59pm

• Required to hold a valid California driver's license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program
• JD Degree required. Candidates must either apply for admission to the California bar by registering to take the July 2026 bar exam or be currently admitted to the California bar.
• Demonstrated commitment to public interest law.
• Commitment to working with students and small farmer clients.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated ability in legal research and writing; strong organizational and planning skills.

• Experience in community-based advocacy, community organizing, teaching, or rural legal services.
• Experience in environmental law or transactional law.
• Fluency in Spanish.

• 85% - Research, Analysis & Legal Representation
• 15% - Outreach and Campus Activities

The Small Farmer Water Justice Clinic Fellowship allows one fellow the opportunity to spend 1-2 years in residence working with the clinic. The Clinic provides legal assistance to underrepresented communities related to the implementation of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act. In collaboration with the Community Alliance with Family Farmers and other project partners, the Clinic provides: (1) legal analysis and assistance to small farmers to help them understand the implications of Groundwater Sustainability Plans, prepared by local GSAs, on the farmers' groundwater use and water rights;

(2) general legal analysis and assistance to small farmers in areas where groundwater allocation litigation is contemplated or present (however, the Clinic will not enter into any attorney-client relationship and will not engage in any litigation); and (3) legal analysis and assistance to small farmers concerning groundwater allocation as it relates to water market proposals by GSAs.

• Salary or Pay Range: $63,900 /yr.
  
  - $112,100 /yr.
• Salary Frequency: Annual
• Salary Grade: Grade 20
• UC
  
  Job Title:
  
  LEGAL SVC ADVISOR 2
• UC Job Code: 007206
• Number of Positions: 1
• Appointment Type: Contract - 1 year contract with possibility of extension or conversion to career, based on funding
• Percentage of Time: 100%
• Shift (Work Schedule): Monday - Friday, 8:00AM - 5:00PM
• Location: Davis, CA
• Union Representation: 99 - Non-Represented (PPSM)
• Benefits Eligible: Yes
• This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work)

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.

• High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
• UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
• Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
• Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
• Work Life and Wellness programs and resources
• On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
• Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet…