Job Details

University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources

UC Cooperative Extension Specialist - Agricultural Waste Management and Bioenergy Production Professor (25-15)

Position Number: 6132520
Location: Merced, CA
Position Type: Agriculture - Environmental Science, Ecology & Forestry

UC Cooperative Extension Specialist - Agricultural Waste Management and Bioenergy Production Professor (25-15)

University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources

Application Window

Open date: April 3, 2025

Next review date: Friday, May 16, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date: Tuesday, Jul 15, 2025 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 description

Position Overview
The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR), in collaboration with the University of California, Merced, invites applications for a Professor of Cooperative Extension at the Assistant rank, which has the formal appointment title as Specialist in Cooperative Extension.

The Professor of Cooperative Extension in Agricultural Waste Management and Bioenergy will develop and implement a collaborative, multifaceted research and extension program focused on the interface between crop production and mechanical engineering to develop sustainable practices and technologies. This includes applying biodegradable mulching films, developing machinery for mulching crop residues to limit soil erosion, improving water use efficiency, reducing crop waste, and enhancing the conversion of agricultural wastes to bioenergy. The role serves as a critical link between the crop production sector and engineering to address the technology needs of California's agricultural industry.

Professors of Cooperative Extension, also known as UCCE (UC Cooperative Extension) Specialists, develop and conduct research and educational programs aimed at appropriate clientele groups in communities outside of UC campuses. UCCE Specialists have programs primarily focused on mission-oriented research or creative work that support the university's efforts to extend knowledge, including outreach and community engagement. Mission-oriented research describes the complete research continuum that extends from basic research to applications of research results. This research is generally applied in nature and has, as a goal, the solution of a problem facing society that is related to the mission of the UCCE Specialist's discipline and the UCCE mission. UCCE Specialists will publish the results of applied research in a combination of research publication types, whether peer-reviewed or not, based on the relevant audiences served by the UCCE Specialist's program.

The extension program disseminates knowledge and information to clientele groups for their use in improving their abilities to understand and address problems and opportunities facing them. The extension educational program serves the University's public service mission. Educational program activities include but are not limited to collaborations with UCCE Advisors, other UCCE Specialists, campus faculty, program teams, workgroups, or clientele groups; developing and presenting educational materials; communicating to clientele through broadcast, print, or electronic media; participating in meetings with clientele; developing and presenting in-service training courses; organizing or participating in workshops, field tours, symposia or conferences. Much of this work is conducted in partnership with UC ANR's locally based UCCE Advisors. The UCCE Specialist - Advisor and faculty partnership creates an applied research network that benefits both the University and the public at large. This position does not include formal classroom instruction at the University.

Location Headquarters. University of California Merced, Department of Department of Mechanical Engineering, Merced, California

Position Details

Major Duties and Responsibilities Include:

Develop and implement a collaborative research and outreach program with the goal of enhancing and creating new technologies that sustainably expand crop production.

Conduct applied research related to agricultural engineering and bioenergy production. Potential research topics include:
o Improvement in efficiency of mechanized harvesting and processing to minimize crop loss

o Development of new technologies for the management of crop residues
o Development or assessment of waste-to-energy conversion technologies
o Monitoring and reporting on the adoption and success of waste management and bioenergy practices in the region
o Assessment and development of techniques to divert agricultural waste from landfills, such as composting.

Evaluate and promote innovative bioenergy solutions tailored to local agricultural needs.

Collaborate with UC Cooperative Extension Advisors and other CE Specialists/Professors of Cooperative Extension, UC Merced faculty, and UC ANR statewide programs and institutes to conduct applied research and inform extension efforts at the local, regional, and statewide levels. Extension activities may include demonstrations, technical workshops, and consultations.

Utilize the UC Merced Experimental Smart Farm, a 40-acre research facility, to showcase innovative solutions for soil conservation and water use optimization in agriculture.

Build partnerships with other universities, agencies, and non-profit groups focused on agricultural engineering and bioenergy, including the local community college network through collaboration with Merced College's new Agriculture and Industrial Technology Complex.

Strengthen partnerships between UC Merced, BEAM Circular, F3 Innovate, and other organizations to position California's Central Valley as a hub for climate-smart agriculture innovation.

Secure external funding through grants and partnerships to support extension and research activities.

Foster a community of practice among engineers, farmers, and industry stakeholders to facilitate the adoption of innovative technologies and practices.

Publish in relevant ANR outlets and external scientific journals appropriate for the field of agricultural engineering and bioenergy production.

Counties of Responsibility: This state-wide position will serve farmers across California, as well as allied agencies and organizations. This is an exciting opportunity to impact diverse communities throughout the state.

Reporting Relationship: The position will be located at the UC Merced campus in Merced, CA, with an appointment in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. UC ANR will oversee the merit and promotion process, consistent with other UC ANR CE Specialists, in consultation with the UCM Department Chair. The CE specialist will also hold an additional 0% (uncompensated) Adjunct Professor series appointment with the working title of Professor of Cooperative Extension (Agricultural Waste Management and Bioenergy Production) at UC Merced. It is not a remote position; the candidate must be available to work onsite at the UC Merced campus.

Qualifications and Skills Required
Education: A minimum of a Ph.D. (or international equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, or a closely related field is required at the time of appointment. Applicants who have not yet earned a Ph.D. must be within 12 months of completing their degree to be considered for the position.

Key Qualifications

Strong experience in agricultural systems and bioenergy production.

A demonstrated record of research in the mechanization of agriculture, waste management, and bioenergy production.

Experience with agricultural machinery design, waste-to-energy conversion processes, and a history of working with the agriculture industry on applied research projects.

Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.

Strong publication record.

Experience in leading collaborative research teams.

Ability and means to travel on a flexible schedule as needed, proof of liability, and property damage insurance on the vehicle used are required. Must possess a valid California Driver's License to drive a university vehicle.

Applicants need to meet appointment criteria for the respective University of California academic title series and evidence for being able to meet required academic advancement criteria as per UC Academic Personnel Manuals. Applications need to document relevant research, extension, teaching experience, and appropriate scholarly achievements.

Desired Experience

Experience with integrated research and educational projects and extension to diverse audiences.

A track record of applying for and securing grant funding.

Skills Required
To be successful, Professor of Cooperative Extension/UCCE Specialist positions require skills in the following:

Technical competence

Conduct and report needs assessments to identify priority issues or problems relevant to the clientele groups being served.

Develop and implement effective UC ANR Cooperative Extension applied research and educational programs to address the identified priority needs of the clientele that are consistent with ANR's Strategic Vision and ANR Initiatives.

Conduct applied research designed to monitor changes and solve statewide and locally relevant problems related to agricultural waste management and bioenergy production in California.
Communication

Disseminate appropriate, science-based information to inform clientele, using extension methods that are responsive to clientele needs and appropriate for the audience and situation.

Maintain and promote UC ANR Cooperative Extension's credibility by providing science-based knowledge.

Evaluate programs and report accomplishments, results, and potential or actual impacts to scientific and lay audiences through a variety of outreach methods e.g., peer-reviewed publications, internet, workshops, and newsletters.
Collaboration & Teamwork

Build collaborative working relationships with CE Advisors, CE Specialists, Academic Coordinators, and program staff across UC ANR, via participation in program teams and work groups.

Interact with campus academic colleagues to create synergies that will advance the programmatic goals of the UC Merced Department of Mechanical Engineering and UC ANR.

Interact with the UC Merced Department of Mechanical Engineering and other relevant graduate programs via occasional lectures and other academic functions (such as serving on dissertation committees, oral exams, etc.) as appropriate. Per UC Academic Personnel Policy 334, Specialist in Cooperative Extension Series, the teaching of regular undergraduate or graduate courses will not be a responsibility of the position.

Engage in campus faculty meetings, campus faculty committee service, and other activities of the UC Merced faculty as appropriate.

Lifelong Learning

Participate in professional organizations and collaborate with state government and agencies related to agricultural waste management and bioenergy production in California.

Demonstrate commitment to ongoing growth - both professionally and as a person.

Salary & Benefits
Salary: The beginning salary will be in the Assistant Cooperative Extension Specialist Rank Step 1- $87,700 to Step 6 - $114,800 annually. Step placement in this series is based on applicable experience and professional qualifications. For information regarding the Cooperative Extension Specialist series salary scales, please refer to
https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/2024-25/july-2024-scales/t29.pdf

This position is eligible for indefinite status, subject to terms noted in Section 315 of the ANR Policy and Procedure Manual (PPM). If the successful candidate is currently a UCCE specialist with indefinite status, the candidate will be offered the position commensurate with applicable experience and professional qualifications with eligibility to retain such indefinite status.

The Cooperative Extension Specialist position is a two-year renewable term appointment. Performance in this position is evaluated annually, with merit actions being evaluated every two years. Upon completion of a successful review, you may be reappointed for another definite term. Our intention with this definite term appointment is to be reappointed based on positive performance reviews and the continuing need for the position.

Benefits: The University of California offers comprehensive benefits, including two days per month paid vacation, one day per month paid sick leave, and paid holidays. This position is eligible for sabbatical leave privileges as per the terms of University policy. ANR is part of UC's Family-Friendly Policies. For more information, refer to the UC Benefits website at: http://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/

About UC ANR
UC ANR is a division of the University of California system that bridges the gap between local issues and the expertise of the UC system by providing research-based information, educational programs, and technical expertise to the public in areas such as agriculture, natural resources, nutrition, and youth development. UC ANR is part of a nationwide Cooperative Extension network, which began in the early 20th century to connect research from land-grant universities with the everyday needs of people in communities across the United States. Today, we collaborate with farmers, ranchers, diverse communities, youth and adult educators, and policymakers to address local and statewide issues related to food systems, water, climate change, and sustainable agriculture through a statewide network of campus-based researchers, county-based Advisors, and community educators. Our mission is to cultivate thriving communities, sustainable agriculture, resilient ecosystems, and economic prosperity in California and globally through equitable generation and sharing of collaborative, science-based solutions. Over 180 UCCE Advisors conduct applied research and extension education from county-based UCCE offices serving all 58 counties from 70+ locations. By working and living among those we serve, UC ANR expands the University of California's reach to engage all people and communities in California, ensuring equal access to the resources UC has to offer. Our vision is that UC ANR will be valued in every California community for meaningful engagement and making a positive difference in people's lives.

About the University of California, Merced
Opened in 2005 as the newest campus of the University of California, UC Merced continually strives for excellence in carrying out the university's mission of teaching, research, and public service, benefiting society by discovering and transmitting new knowledge and functioning as an active repository of organized knowledge. The Department of Mechanical Engineering is dedicated to the education of a new generation of engineers and researchers in areas related to mechanical engineering while being exposed to state-of-the-art research techniques, methodologies, and equipment to solve problems that are relevant to modern society like green energy, surface science, mechanical modeling and synthesis, robotics and mechatronics, control systems, and more.

Learn more about

UC ANR and UC ANR Mission Statement.

UC Merced

UC ANR administers Statewide Programs and Institutes that focus research and extension on solving priority problems that engage ANR academics and UC faculty in integrated teams

UC ANR Strategic Initiatives help unify, communicate, and advocate for the work we do.

UC ANR UC ANR uses seven Public Value statements to communicate how our work makes a difference to the public.

UC ANR academics are expected to share and exhibit UC ANR's commitment to UC ANR's Affirmative Action policy

UC ANR is committed to supporting inclusive excellence and is guided by UC ANR's Principles of Community. We strive to create an environment where all individuals, regardless of their background, feel valued and respected and have equal opportunities for growth and success.

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, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students, and Third Parties
APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

How to Apply
If interested in this position, please visit: https://recruit.ucanr.edu/ and choose "applicants" (refer to position #25-15. An in-person finalist interview may be required as part of the search process.

Closing Date: To assure full consideration, application packets must be received by May 16, 2025 (open until filled)

Questions?
Contact Tatiana Avoce; email: tavoce@ucanr.edu

Applicants may wish to explore the UC Davis Services for International Students and Scholars web page at https://siss.ucdavis.edu/ as a resource.

University of California Cooperative Extension

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

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 the UC nondiscrimination policy.

As of January 1, 2014, ANR is a smoke- and tobacco-free environment in which smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes), is strictly prohibited.
Application Requirements
Document requirements

Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
Cover Letter
Statement of Research and Extension - Please submit a 2-page Statement of Research and Extension Interests including how your current and/or past research and extension experience could contribute to, or be applicable to, the needs of the local community. Provide examples of potential goals and outcomes from your research and extension activities.
References - Please provide three references (names, titles and contact information).
College Level Transcripts - Electronic transcripts or legible scanned copies (PDF) of original transcripts will be accepted. Transcripts must identify course work completed, grades earned, degrees conferred and confer dates. Please DO NOT send transcripts that are password protected.

Reference requirements

3-5 required (contact information only)

About UC Agriculture and Natural Resources

The University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. 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 the UC nondiscrimination policy.
Job location
Merced, CA

To apply, please visit: https://recruit.ucanr.edu/JPF00311