Position Overview

The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR), a statewide program with local development and delivery, is seeking the following UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Advisor.

Location Headquarters. Moreno Valley, Riverside County, CA

Purpose. The Woody Biomass and Bioenergy Advisor will implement an innovative extension education and applied research program with the goal of increasing the utilization of low value woody biomass in the region.

The position will

·      Investigate opportunities and strategies for increasing the use of woody biomass though development of biofuels and bioenergy, as well as other products.

·      Integrate efforts to enhance biomass management and natural resources manufacturing with strategies for reducing community risk from wildfires.

·      Evaluate how sustainable, climate smart, forestry practices enhance community resilience.

·      Develop and extend research based information on the efficacy of converting woody biomass into fuels for transportation and other products consistent with the California Forest Carbon Plan.

·      Identify and develop markets for biomass-generated soil amendments for use in agricultural, forest, and urban settings consistent with goals of the Healthy Soils and other programs.

This position offers the opportunity to integrate and bring focus to woody biomass utilization by working with and across UC ANRs efforts to improve forest management, woody biomass utilization, and promote long-term economic development and community resilience. Education programs will have positive impacts on vegetation management, woody biomass utilization, and development of associated economic development projects. 

This is an exciting opportunity to develop and deliver relevant program content to have meaningful impacts in local communities and throughout California.

Opportunities abound for extension and research partnerships with forest landowners, natural resource professionals, private enterprises involved in woody biomass utilization, and local, state, and federal agencies. The advisor joins a team of highly motivated UCCE colleagues across the state 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 will be headquartered in Riverside County and also serve San Bernardino County.  

Reporting Relationship: The CE Advisor serves under the administrative guidance of the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) County Director for Riverside 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 in forestry, engineering, soil science, environmental science/design, or related field is required at the time of appointment. 

Additional Requirements

·  Valid driver license.

·  Solid understanding of woody biomass production systems, engineered wood products, wood science, biomass energy, or advanced manufacturing systems.

·  Live within a commutable distance of the position headquarters during period of appointment.

 Desired Experience

·  Woody biomass system management

·  Natural resource-based economies

·  Carbon accounting/utilization and environmental regulations

·  Renewable/bioenergy development

·  Passion and desire to pursue a career in Cooperative Extension and community development

·  Partnership-building 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

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 woody biomass production systems and bioenergy 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 – both professionally and as a person. Ability to shift program focus as times and organizational needs change.

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

Salary & Benefits

How to Apply

Closing Date:  To assure full consideration, application packets must be received by

March 11, 2022 – (open until filled)

Questions?

University of California Cooperative Extension

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.