APPLICATION WINDOW
Open date: October 31, 2022
Next review date: Tuesday, Jan 3, 2023 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.
Final date: Friday, Mar 3, 2023 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) offers a unique recruitment opportunity for a UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Community Water Systems/Supply Area Advisor. UC ANR operates a statewide network of researchers and educators dedicated to the development and application of knowledge to address local community, agricultural, environmental and health issues. Over 150 UC ANR UCCE advisors conduct applied research, outreach and education from locally based Cooperative Extension 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.
Location Headquarters. Bakersfield, Kern County, CA
Purpose. The Community Water Systems/Supply Area Advisor will implement an innovative extension education and applied research program around the intersection of water supply and quality issues and community development. This position aims to link UC ANR’s expertise in water resource management with community development, to ensure long-term resilience of water systems in rural areas of the Central Valley. The position will:
• Provide technical assistance for community water system consolidation efforts,
• Provide technical assistance for communities to lessen negative externalities and meet local regulatory and management program goals (such as the implementation of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) and the Irrigated Lands Regulatory Program (ILRP)).
The position will address key questions in areas such as the following:
• What are the impacts of increasing pressures on household and community water systems, e.g., by long-term droughts, water contamination, increased groundwater pumping, and increased demand?
• How do water system consolidations increase community resiliency?
• What kinds of additional actions might be taken to increase community resiliency when it comes to water?
The position is expected to create collaborative synergistic relationships with state and non-governmental partners, including the State Water Board and Department of Water Resources, and community water groups.
Additional areas of potential research include data analysis and management, well testing and contaminant levels, depth to groundwater analysis, analyses of innovations around filtration for contaminants, analysis of system consolidations and the role of communities The position will be expected to work in partnership with organizations involved in water management, community development, and environmental justice, take an active role in public outreach, and develop strong collaborations with key community groups and other non-governmental organizations. The position will collaborate with UCCE Advisors and Specialists, the UC ANR California Institute for Water Resources, as well as other UC and CSU system academics.
This is an exciting opportunity to develop and deliver relevant program content to have meaningful impacts in local communities and throughout California.
Counties of Responsibility. This position will be headquartered in Kern County and also serve Kings and Tulare Counties. Kern County, the headquarters for this position, is located in California’s Central Valley, which is the richest agricultural region in the state. Extending east beyond the southern slope of the eastern Sierra Nevada range into the Mojave Desert, it includes parts of the Indian Wells Valley and the Antelope Valley. From the Sierras the county extends across the floor of the San Joaquin Valley to the eastern edge of the Temblor Range, part of the Coastal Ranges. To the south the county extends over the ridge of the Tehachapi Mountains. Almonds are consistently ranked as one of the top grossing agricultural products in Kern County. Additionally, Kern County has a large agricultural base and is a significant producer of oil, natural gas, hydro-electric, wind turbine, and geothermal power. The Central Valley area of Kern and Kings Counties is one of the fastest growing areas in the country. It is only a 3-hour drive to the greater Los Angeles area to the south, or the San Francisco-Sacramento area to the north; and only a 2-hour drive to some of the most beautiful Pacific beaches found anywhere.
Reporting Relationship: The CE Advisor serves under the administrative guidance of the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) County Director for Kern County with input from the other UCCE County Directors in the coverage area.
Qualifications and Skills Required
Required Qualifications
Education: A minimum of a Master’s degree water sciences, or related field is required at the time of appointment.
Additional Requirements
• Valid driver’s license required to fulfill job duties- Employees driving County or University vehicles must possess valid California Driver’s License and participate in the DMV pull notice program.
• Experience in household and community water systems in urban and rural communities
• Understanding of the intersection of water systems and community development
• Knowledge of impacts of droughts, water contamination, and groundwater pumping on water supply
Skills Required
To be successful, the CE Advisor requires skills in the following area:
Technical Competence and Impact
The candidate should have a deep understanding of water systems and water supply, and be able to design and implement a program that leads to positive changes and impact within the community and beyond. There is an expectation that advisors evolve and grow across their career and respond to changes in the industry and by clientele.
Communication
Demonstrated excellence in written, oral, and interpersonal and information technology communication skills. Public speaking to stakeholders is a routine part of this position. Demonstrated ability to share complex information in a manner tailored to the audience.
Collaboration, Teamwork and Flexibility
Demonstrated 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 Learning
Demonstrated 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) at: https://ucanr.edu/sites/anrstaff/files/319460.pdf
Desired Experience
• Experience in rural communities and agriculture/natural resource-based economies
• Passion and desire to pursue a career in Cooperative Extension and community development
• Experience in building partnerships and with multidisciplinary teams
• Demonstrated ability to effectively plan programs, manage teams, and implement an applied research and outreach program, including setting measurable goals and objectives
• Spanish language skills are a plus
About UC ANR
The 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.
Learn more about
• UC ANR at https://UCANR.edu
• UC ANR in Kern County: http://cekern.ucanr.edu
• UC ANR in Tulare County: http://cetulare.ucanr.edu
• UC ANR in Kings County: http://cekings.ucanr.edu
• Our Strategic Initiatives http://ucanr.edu/sites/StrategicInitiatives/
• Our Public Value statements at: https://ucanr.edu/sites/anrstaff/Divisionwide_Planning/UC_ANR_Public_Values/
• DEI: Further to the above, academics are expected to share and exhibit UC ANR’s commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion https://ucanr.edu/sites/Professional_Development/Office_-_Team_Management/Diversity_Equity_Inclusion_Belonging/
• Affirmative action: Further to the above, Advisors are expected to share and exhibit UC ANR’s commitment to affirmative action. Learn more of UC ANR Affirmative Action policy: http://ucanr.edu/sites/anrstaff/Diversity/Affirmative_Action/
• 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 beginning salary will be in the Cooperative Extension Assistant Advisor Rank and commensurate with applicable experience and professional qualifications. For information regarding Cooperative Extension Advisor salary scales, please refer to the University of California website: https://ucanr.edu/sites/anrstaff/files/358478.pdf. 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 https://ucanr.edu/sites/anrstaff/files/118501.pdf
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 at: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html
How to Apply
If interested in this position, please visit: https://recruit.ucanr.edu/ and choose “applicants” (refer to position #21-56)
Closing Date: To assure full consideration, application packets must be received by January 3, 2023 – (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
Please note the UC Policy on COVID and Flu vaccinations and working for UC: The University of California issues policies essential for the safety and well-being of the community, including requirements for employees to be appropriately vaccinated for COVID-19 and vaccinated for influenza, or to have an approved exception/exemption on file.
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.
Please visit https://ucanr.edu/About/Jobs/?jobnum=2350
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Document requirements
- Curriculum Vitae – Your most recently updated C.V.
- Cover Letter
- Statement of Research and Extension – Statement of Research and Extension Interests: Please submit a 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 3 references: names, titles and contact information.
- Statement of Contributions to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) – In submitting your application packet, please pay particular attention to your Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) statement. This statement is viewed very seriously as part of recruitment. Why? The University of California community values diversity which embraces inclusion, and honors excellence. Scholarship, research, creativity, innovation, and service flourish when all members of the community are welcomed, supported, and respected. UC ANR’s mission and public statements continue to fulfill these values. UC ANR is committed to removing barriers preventing full expression of our potential and reflecting the population of California in our staff and academic personnel, especially those who have been systematically and historically underrepresented. Please submit a 1-page Statement of your Contributions to DEI showing past and/or potential contributions to diversity through personal experience, professional activity, and/or service. This should include how you would ensure that all potential clientele have access and benefit from your program.
- 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)
JOB LOCATION
Bakersfield, Kern County, CA
