Position Overview

The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) offers a unique opportunity for a UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Community Nutrition, Health, and Food Systems Area Advisor. UC ANR operates a statewide network of researchers and educators dedicated to the development and application of knowledge to address local agricultural, environmental and health issues. Over 150 UC ANR 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.

Location Headquarters:  Modoc County, Alturas, CA

Purpose. The Community Nutrition, Health, and Food Systems Advisor will implement an innovative extension education and applied problem-solving research program for the Intermountain Region (including Modoc, Siskiyou, and Lassen counties) and is primarily a rural area.

The advisor will develop a program based on priority community needs within the broad areas of healthy lifestyles, nutrition, food security, and locally grown food production, preservation, and availability. Of specific interest and importance are the programmatic areas of strengthening the connections between local farmers and consumers by expanding access to affordable nutritious food; improving community health by increasing consumer awareness and understanding about healthy food choices, local food production, and food preservation opportunities; improving water and food security by supporting local production and delivery systems; and helping local food producers overcome regionally significant obstacles such climate variability and uncertainty.

The advisor will work with and provide a point of connection for county, state, community, NGOs, schools and other organizations to work together toward enhanced community health and resilience. The advisor’s applied research program will inform delivery of food, nutrition, and health strategies and assist policy efforts across the area counties with potential throughout California. There is a growing Master Food Preserver program in the area as well as budding farmer’s market, farm to school programs, and a local food hub in Modoc County and similar community gardens, direct market producers and community food hubs in neighboring counties that lack locally relevant information and guidance to develop and meet the needs of local communities.

The advisor will be part of the network of UC ANR Nutrition and Health Advisors that provide critical capacity, coordination, and science-based momentum for an accelerated approach to California’s health problems.  As such, the advisor’s work will also connect with other UC ANR advisors, UC Campus-based specialists and faculty, the UC ANR Nutrition Policy Institute and with relevant UC ANR volunteer networks (e.g., UC Master Gardener, UC Master Food Preserver, and UC 4-H).  UC ANR implements two large Federal Nutrition programs (CalFresh Healthy Living and EFNEP).  These programs offer rich opportunities for collaboration.  The advisor will be part of a state-wide advisory committee providing input on and seeking synergies around these and other Statewide programs.        

This is an exciting opportunity to have meaningful impacts in these Intermountain Region communities and throughout California more broadly.

Opportunities abound for research and extension partnerships that link consumers and professionals across multi-sectors with relevant science-based information and promote effective problem solving.  The advisor will also 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 throughout California.  The potential for collaborative projects within the UC ANR system is nearly limitless.

Counties of Responsibility.  This position is focused on the Intermountain Region of Modoc, Siskiyou, and Lassen counties.  There is an opportunity to work collaboratively across counties as well as have some statewide collaborations, influence and impact. 

Reporting Relationship: The CE advisor serves under the administrative guidance of the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) County Director for Modoc County.  The CE advisor is programmatically responsible to the Statewide Community Nutrition and Health Director.

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 the California.  We are committed to developing and supporting 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 counties: https://ucanr.edu/sites/ucanr/County_Offices/
• Our Strategic Initiatives http://ucanr.edu/sites/StrategicInitiatives/
• Our Public Value statements at https://ucanr.edu/sites/anrstaff/2016-2020_Strategic_Plan/Goal_5__Prioritize_programs_and_services/Public_values_statement/
• DEI: Further to the above, advisors 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: 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 22-15)

Closing Date: To assure full consideration, application packets must be received by February 17, 2023 (open until filled)

Questions?

Contact Tatiana Avoce – 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 condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Policy.  All Covered Individuals under the policy must provide proof of Full Vaccination or, if applicable, submit a request for Exception (based on Medical Exemption, Disability, and/or Religious Objection) or Deferral (based on pregnancy) no later than the applicable deadline.   New University of California employees should refer to Appendix F, Section II.C. of the policy for applicable deadlines.  (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.

Required Qualifications

Education:   A minimum of a Master’s degree in Public or Community Health, Nutrition or other closely related fields is required at the time of appointment.

Additional Requirements

• A background investigation will be required for the successful candidate, including fingerprinting and a criminal history clearance by the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This position is subject to the requirements and compliance of the California’s Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA). Employment within UC ANR is contingent upon securing written acknowledgement to comply with California law.
• Experience and/or expertise in whole child health (physical, social-emotional) and/or social determinants of health (including healthcare, transportation, built environment, workforce development, public safety, nutrition security, climate health, etc.).

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 key concepts related to community health and nutrition 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 may even need to change the focus of their work.

Communication

Demonstrated excellence in written, oral and interpersonal and information technology communication skills.

Demonstrated cultural sensitivity and humility, and 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 others.  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 and/or expertise in applying equity-driven values and approaches in racially and culturally diverse communities; understanding and experience with practices of inclusion.
• Passion and desire to pursue a career in Cooperative Extension and community development.
• Experience in successful Cooperative Extension programming or community development,
• Demonstrated ability to effectively plan, manage teams and implement a research program, including setting measurable goals and objectives.

About University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources

The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) consists of a network of scientists and educators working in partnership across the California. We are committed to developing and supporting 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.

Connections working at University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources