Description

UC Cooperative Extension Specialist - Beef Cattle Production - Browns Valley, CA (AP 26-11)

University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources

Application Window

Open date: March 23, 2026

Next review date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date: Saturday, Aug 1, 2026 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

The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) invites applications for a UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Specialist at the Assistant rank.

With approximately 1.8 million head of beef cattle and over 10,000 producers, California is one of the nation's leading beef-producing states. Almost 62% of the state is classified as rangeland, with beef cattle grazing present in all counties but San Francisco County. Grazing is the state's largest land use, and beef cattle production is an economic and cultural driver in communities across the state. The specialist will create a robust research and extension program across the UC ANR network to support the beef cattle industry.

UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Specialists develop and conduct research and educational programs for appropriate clientele groups in communities outside 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 encompasses the entire research continuum, extending from basic research to the application of research results. This research is generally applied in nature and aims to find solutions to societal problems related to the UCCE Specialist's discipline and the UCCE mission. UCCE Specialists publish the results of applied research in a combination of peer-reviewed publications and stakeholder-facing materials, including refereed journals, technical reports, and white papers, tailored to the needs of the audiences their programs serve.

Extension programs disseminate knowledge and information to clientele groups to help them better understand and address problems and opportunities they face. 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. The specialist will be based at the Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center, 8279 Scott Forbes Road, Browns Valley, CA 95918.

Position Details

The beef cattle industry will face many challenges in the coming years. Fluctuating markets necessitate improved production and increased product value. Research areas can include increasing reproductive rates, improving animal health, economically increasing weight gain, preventing disease, and enhancing genetic merit. In addition, marketing research on the economic value of production practices can help producers identify which management strategies best fit their specific operation. As with many areas of the US, California faces management challenges from drought. State-specific research on culling and/or feeding to survive drought is always pertinent. The Beef Cattle Production Specialist will lead ANR's network of advisors and specialists to help the industry improve beef production efficiencies, adapt to environmental challenges, and meet regulatory goals, while ensuring animal welfare and the quality of the end product.

Major duties and responsibilities for this specialist:

Collaborate with UC ANR's network of advisors, specialists, AES faculty, statewide programs, and institutes, as well as external stakeholders, to conduct applied research and disseminate research results in support of beef cattle production issues, as well as cross-over research with production-animal focused, sustainable systems, and small-holder systems. External partners include groups such as the California Cattle Council, the California Cattlemen's Association, the California Beef Improvement Association, the California Rangeland Conservation Coalition, and the California Rangeland Trust, among others, at the intersection of beef cattle grazing, climate, and local food production.

Educate on science-based research, policy, and socially relevant issues related to beef cattle production systems, via conferences, individual consultations, workshops, and web-based programs accessible to a diverse audience.

Design and conduct an innovative applied research program addressing complex issues impacting beef cattle production and sustainable agricultural systems. Approaches in the selected areas of emphasis are expected to be leading-edge and transdisciplinary. Potential areas of emphasis include:
o Animal health, reproduction, and management
o Beef quality assurance
o Beef cattle nutrition
o Utilization of agricultural byproducts seasonally and during drought
o Genetic improvement
o Marketing opportunities such as value-added programs and genetics
o Sustainable grazing management

Publish findings, best practices, and case studies in accessible formats, including relevant peer-reviewed journals such as the Journal of Animal Science and Frontiers in Animal Science, as well as ANR outlets, industry publications such as the California Cattlemen magazine, and relevant online platforms to widen the reach and impact of research outcomes.

Participate in professional society activities and scholarly contributions, attaining goals of state, national, and international recognition over time.

Geographic Area of Responsibility: This state-wide position will support the beef cattle industry across California. This is an exciting opportunity to impact diverse communities throughout the state.

Reporting Relationship: The position will be located at the Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center (SFREC) in Browns Valley, CA. UC ANR will oversee the merit and promotion process, consistent with other UC ANR CE Specialists. It is not a remote position; the candidate must be available to work onsite at the Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center in Browns Valley.

Qualifications and Skills Required

Education: A minimum of a Ph.D. (or international equivalent) in animal science, ruminant nutrition, animal biology, or a 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

Demonstrated experience/interest in animal agriculture, agricultural sustainability, beef cattle production, research, and/or the beef cattle industry

Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly to non-scientific and public audiences

Demonstrated record of productivity in research as evidenced by publications in peer-reviewed journals

A track record of effectively engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders

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 or obtain a valid California Driver's License to drive a university vehicle.

Applicants must have unrestricted and permanent work authorization in the United States. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time. Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. at the time of hire, without additional sponsorship. Internal ANR applicants with questions may contact Katie Kilbane at ...@ucanr.edu.

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 prior 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.
Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment
Anti-Discrimination Policy
Affirmative Action

Desired Experience

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

A track record of applying for and securing extramural funding

Knowledge, experience, interest, and/or academic coursework related to outreach and extension, applied research, and science communication are highly desired.

Skills Required: To be successful, UCCE Specialist positions require skills in the following:

Technical competence

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

Conduct and report needs assessments to identify priority issues or problems relevant to the clientele groups 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 disaster preparedness and resilience in California.

Communication

Disseminate appropriate, science-based information to inform clientele, using extension methods that are responsive to clientele needs and suitable 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 various outreach methods, e.g., peer-reviewed publications, internet, workshops, and newsletters.

Collaboration & Teamwork

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

Engage with a network external to UC ANR, including state and local agency staff, policymakers, civic organizations, and nonprofit partners.
Lifelong Learning

Participate in professional organizations and collaborate with state government and agencies related to disaster preparedness and resilience 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- $90,600 to Step 6 - $118,500 annually. Step placement in this series is based on applicable experience and professional qualifications. information regarding the Cooperative Extension Specialist series salary scales, please refer to Salary Scale.

This position is eligible for indefinite status, subject to terms noted in Section 315 of the ANR Policy and Procedure Manual. 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 completing 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.
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 per the terms of University policy. ANR is part of UC's Family-Friendly Policies. For more information, refer to the UC Benefits website Benefits.
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 offers. 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 Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center (SFREC)
Located 60 miles northeast of Sacramento, SFREC is one of 10 research and extension centers within UC ANR. Located on over 5,700 acres of dry annual rangeland, irrigated pastures, oak woodlands, and riparian corridors along the Yuba River, SFREC is representative of several million acres of California foothill rangeland. The Center supports programs on beef cattle production, nutrition and health, rangeland water quality management, oak woodland restoration, native plant conservation, and invasive plant management. SFREC provides land, labor, and infrastructure to support research on critical beef cattle and natural resource issues and provides key site resources to support extension and outreach efforts that explore these themes. The Center hosts a resident 165-cow-calf herd and contracts roughly 400 yearlings and 200 weaners annually for research use and has two sets of animal-handling facilities to allow for weighing, sorting, processing, and observation of cattle. Dry labs allow on-site processing and storage of research samples. The Center has both indoor and outdoor meeting facilities that accommodate up to 120 participants.

Learn more about UC ANR

UC ANR and UC ANR Mission Statement

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 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 UCANR's Civil Rights Compliance 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.

How to Apply
If interested in this position, please visit UC Recruit and choose "applicants" (refer to position #26-11). 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 6, 2026 (open until filled).

Questions?

Contact: Katie Kilbane via email : ...@ucanr.edu.

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 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 status under state or federal law.

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) are strictly prohibited.
Application Requirements
Document requirements

• 
  Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
  
• 
  Cover Letter (Optional)
  
• 
  Statement of Research - 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

• 3-6 required (contact information only)

3 required; 3 optional
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
Browns Valley, CA

To apply, please visit:







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