Forestry & Natural Resources Advisor (Applied Research

Company: University of California Agriculture and Natural R
Location: Davis
Posted on: May 20, 2023

Job Description:

Forestry & Natural Resources Advisor (Applied Research and Extension) 22-48University of California Agriculture and Natural ResourcesDate Posted: March 13, 2023Closing Date: May 7, 2023County Locations: Shasta County, Siskiyou County, Trinity County Position OverviewThe University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) offers a unique recruitment opportunity for a UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Forestry and Natural Resources Advisor. UC ANR operates a statewide network of researchers and educators dedicated to the development and application of knowledge to address local agricultural, environmental, youth and community health issues. Over 150 UCCE advisors conduct research, outreach and education from locally based CE offices serving all 58 counties from 70+ locations throughout the state. 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 UC system. Purpose: The Forestry & Natural Resources Advisor will implement an extension education and applied problem-solving research program in sustainable forest management on both private and public lands for Shasta, Trinity, and Siskiyou Counties. The advisor will conduct a locally-based extension, education, and applied research program to address high priority issues with focus on conifer forest resource management and sustainable natural resources. Important issues to be addressed include forest stewardship, forest production economics, water quality, wildland fire, invasive species, pest management and air quality issues. The advisor will work with landowners, government and non-government agencies to reduce risks of wildfire and manage post-wildfire revegetation; focus on making healthier communities by providing access to the research and education of the University to support the sustainability of natural environments; and work to improve the understanding of forest ecology and management of Californians to foster the sustainable use of forests. The candidate will develop and implement applied research programs to provide science-based information addressing complex issues. The advisor will provide essential leadership to address critical issues facing forestry and natural resources in Shasta, Trinity and Siskiyou Counties. The focus of the applied research program will be based on a needs assessment and may include partnerships with a variety of campus and county-based colleagues. The advisor will develop and conduct applied research and demonstration projects that address issues such as the evaluation of alternatives to the role of fire by other management practices, the role of fire and ability of other treatments to duplicate the effects of fire, potential uses of forest biomass as it relates to the development of an economically and environmentally sustainable industry, relationships between sustainable forest management and opportunities to improve water quality and quantity, the effects of forest management on wildlife and plant populations, and management strategy and harvest scheduling benefits to ecological conditions and economics. The academic is expected to implement a range of extension activities to address local needs. This information can be disseminated through workshops, seminars, field days, short courses, newsletters, and lay publications, in coordination with local public agencies. Applied research and creative activity are expected to be aligned with the position description and determined by clientele needs, and include collaboration on projects, securing grant funding from public agencies, private foundations, and commodity groups, and publications in relevant topical journals. The advisor further is expected to show professional competence such as presenting at local or regional meetings of professionals, service providers, or other industry partners, and University and public service. Key clientele include local Fire Safe Councils, the Northern California Prescribed Fire Council, the California Fire Science Consortium, Registered Professional Foresters, timber companies, private forest landowners and concerned citizens. This is an exciting opportunity to have meaningful impacts in the communities in the target counties and throughout California. There are numerous opportunities for research and extension partnerships that link consumers and resource professionals with relevant science-based information and promote effective problem solving. The candidate will join a team of highly motivated UCCE colleagues who are passionate about their work and are dedicated to making a difference within the communities and working landscapes of California. The potential for collaborative projects within the UC ANR system is nearly limitless. Counties of Responsibility: This position will be headquartered in the UCCE Shasta County office, Redding, California. Reporting Relationship: The Cooperative Extension advisor serves under the administrative guidance of the University of California Cooperative Extension Shasta and Trinity County Director with input from the County Director in Siskiyou County. Qualifications and Skills RequiredRequired QualificationsEducation: A minimum of a Master's degree in forestry ecology, resource management or other closely related fields with a sound understanding of applied forest management is required at time of appointment. Additional RequirementsA California license as a Registered Professional Forester is required. (The Advisor would have a grace period of 5 years after hire to achieve this certification).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 valid California Driver's License to drive a County or University vehicle.Extension experience and demonstrated excellence in the areas of applied research is desired.Coursework and experience in forestry, fire ecology, and natural resource management.Training and experience in interdisciplinary and multi-disciplinary research and collaboration is preferred.Familiarity with California's natural resources will be beneficial.Knowledge and demonstrated use of remote methods of conducting outreach and delivery are a benefit.This is not a remote position. The candidate must be available to be onsite. Skills RequiredTo be successful, the CE Advisor requires skills in the following area: Technical Competence and ImpactThe candidate should understand key concepts to optimize engagement and development and be able to design and implement a program that leads to positive changes and impact within the community and beyond.CommunicationDemonstrated excellence in written, oral, and interpersonal and information technology communication skills. Public speaking to stakeholders is a routine part of this position. Spanish language skills are a plus.Demonstrated ability to share complex information in a manner tailored to the audience.Collaboration, Teamwork and FlexibilityDemonstrated ability to work collaboratively as a team member with industry and other stakeholders. Able to adapt as circumstances warranted.Aware and willing to actively promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.Lifelong LearningDemonstrated commitment to ongoing self-improvement. Ability to shift program focus as times and organizational needs change.Learn more about Skills and Areas of Programmatic Review (including Professional Competence, University and Public Service and Affirmative Action and DEI) Desired Experience Experience in conducting field research in agriculture; planning and implementation of broad, large-scale research and extension programs;An understanding of how public policy impacts agricultural management and producer decision-making.Passion and desire to pursue a career in Cooperative ExtensionExperience in building partnerships and with multidisciplinary teamsDemonstrated ability to effectively plan projects, manage teams and implement an applied research and outreach program, including setting measurable goals and objectives About UC ANRThe University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) consists of a network of scientists and educators working in partnership across California. We are committed to developing and supporting practical, science-based solutions that contribute to healthy food systems, healthy environments, healthy communities, and healthy Californians. UC ANR administers UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE), which is responsible for program development and delivery in the counties throughout the state of California.The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and will honor your experiences, perspectives and unique identity. We encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQ+ community members, and others who demonstrate the ability to help us create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable and welcoming. Salary & Benefits Salary: The salary range for this Cooperative Extension Advisor position is Assistant Rank, Step I ($71,200) to Step VI ($94,000). Step placement in the advisor series is based on applicable experience and professional qualifications. For information regarding Cooperative Extension Advisor salary scales, please refer to the University of California website.If the successful candidate is currently a UCCE Advisor, the candidate will be offered the position without change to the candidate's current rank, step, salary and/or appointment terms; and if applicable, is eligible to retain indefinite status.This position is eligible for indefinite status following three successful reviews and subject to terms noted in UC ANR Policy and Procedure Manual, Section 315.Benefits: The University of California offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, 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 the University policy. For more information, refer to the UC Benefits website. Closing Date: To assure full consideration, complete application packets must be received by May 7, 2023 (open until filled).Applicants may wish to explore the UC Davis Services for International Students and Scholars web page as a resource. University of California Cooperative ExtensionAs a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs - With Updated Interim Amendments. All Covered Individuals under the policy must provide proof of receiving the COVID-19 Vaccine Primary Series or, if applicable, submit a request for Exception (based on Medical Exemption, Disability, Religious Objection, and/or Deferral based on pregnancy or recent COVID-19 diagnosis and/or treatment) no later than the applicable deadline. All Covered Individuals must also provide proof of receiving the most recent CDC-recommended COVID-19 booster or properly decline such booster no later than the applicable deadline. New University of California employees should refer to Exhibit 2, Section II.C. of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Attachment for applicable deadlines. All Covered Individuals must also provide proof of being Up-To-Date on seasonal influenza vaccination or properly decline such vaccination no later than the applicable deadline. Please refer to the Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Program Attachment. (Capitalized terms in this paragraph are defined in the policy.) Federal, state, or local public health 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.

Keywords: University of California Agriculture and Natural R, Davis , Forestry & Natural Resources Advisor (Applied Research, Other , Davis, California