Cooperative Extension Area Citrus Advisor - Serving Tulare, Fresno, and Madera Counties; AP

Application Window

• Open date:
  October 13, 2025
• Next review date:
  Sunday, Nov 23, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) – Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.
• Final date:
  Sunday, Feb 1, 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.

The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources invites applications for a UC Cooperative Extension Area Advisor at the Assistant rank. The Advisor will develop an innovative multi-county applied research and extension education program supporting the large citrus industry in Tulare, Fresno, and Madera Counties.

The Advisor will develop problem-solving and educational programs for high-priority production issues related to climate and drought resilience in citrus, including warmer temperatures, decreased water availability, and decreased water quality. Research and extension solutions may include rootstock and cultivar selection, irrigation and soil management, and emerging innovative farming practices. The incumbent will work on horticultural solutions to production challenges, integrating research and expertise from colleagues in agricultural engineering, irrigation, plant pathology, and entomology to address concerns such as limited and increasingly expensive inputs, the threat of huanglongbing disease, and other emerging pests and diseases.

One of the most pressing concerns for citrus growers in the region is the implementation of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, which is reshaping how water is allocated and used. The advisor will help growers navigate the evolving water landscape while protecting crop productivity and quality.

• Conduct applied research on topics relevant to the citrus industry based on clientele needs assessment and the Advisor's expertise.
• Engage in outreach to provide science-based information through workshops, field meetings, webinars, newsletters, industry and media outlets, phone calls, and online and social media tools.
• Collaborate with UC ANR Program Teams, UCCE Specialists, and external partners such as growers, industry organizations, and local farm bureaus.
• Maintain office hours and fieldwork in Tulare, Fresno, and Madera Counties, and travel to all counties served.
• Publish results in UC ANR series, technical sheets, commodity board reports, and peer-reviewed journals.

• A minimum of a master’s degree in horticulture, pomology, crop physiology, agroecology, plant nutrition, or a related field.
• Experience conducting applied, impact-oriented research on topics relevant to this position.
• Capacity to accomplish team-based research and education programs consistent with the values of UC ANR.
• Ability and means to travel on a flexible schedule as needed; proof of liability and property damage insurance on vehicle used; valid California Driver’s License.
• Authorized to work in the U.S.; employment visa sponsorship not available.
• Evidence of success in meeting UC Academic Personnel Manual criteria for the respective university title series.
• Strong written, oral, interpersonal, and IT communication skills.
• Collaboration, teamwork, flexibility, and lifelong learning.
• Interest in pursuing a career in UC Cooperative Extension.

• Building partnerships and multidisciplinary teams.
• Climate change mitigation partnerships and collaborations.
• Planning projects, managing teams, and implementing applied research and outreach programs with measurable goals.
• Securing extramural funding.
• Expertise in orchard crops, especially citrus.
• Spanish language skills.

Salary range for the Cooperative Extension Advisor position is Assistant Rank, Step I ($85,600) to Step VI ($108,600). Step placement is based on applicable experience and professional qualifications.

Benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, two days per month paid vacation, one day per month paid sick leave, and paid holidays. The position is eligible for sabbatical leave privileges.

Visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). and choose “applicants” (refer to positions 25-26). An in-person finalist interview may be required as part of the search process.

November 23, 2025 – applications must be received by this date for full consideration (Open until filled).

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity 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 status under state or federal law.

Katie Kilbane, email: klkilbane