UC Cooperative Extension Specialist- Coastal Hydrology, Agriculture, and Water Resilience Located at the University of California, Santa Cruz (25-16)

University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources

Application Window

Open date: June 2, 2025

Next review date: Saturday, Aug 2, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date: Sunday, Nov 2, 2025 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

UC Cooperative Extension Specialist-
Coastal Hydrology, Agriculture, and Water Resilience
Located at the University of California, Santa Cruz
Position Overview
The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR), in collaboration with the University of California, Santa Cruz, invites applications for a UC Cooperative Extension Specialist (UCCE) at the Assistant rank.

The specialist will focus broadly on integrated water resources management and hydrologic processes in coastal areas, many of which are severely water-limited, including applied research for sustainable water resources management for communities, ecosystems, and high-value agriculture. The position will address unique and critical needs for coastal regions, including groundwater overdraft, saltwater intrusion, nutrient loading, land use and regional economic development, freshwater fisheries, and maritime elements of coastal agriculture. It will support efforts to meet the requirements of California's Sustainable Groundwater Management Act. The specialist will advance water education by training the next generation of leaders to understand and formulate responses to changing interactions between water supplies and societies, and collaborate and communicate with federal, state, and regional agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the public.

UCCE Specialists develop and conduct research and educational programs aimed at appropriate clientele groups in communities outside of 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 describes the complete research continuum that extends from basic research to applications of research results. This research is generally applied in nature and has, as a goal, the solution of a problem facing society that is related to the mission of the UCCE Specialist's discipline and the UCCE mission. UCCE Specialists will publish the results of applied research in a combination of research publication types, whether peer-reviewed or not, based on the relevant audiences served by the UCCE Specialist's program.

The extension program disseminates knowledge and information to clientele groups for their use in improving their abilities to understand and address problems and opportunities facing them. 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 position will be part of the University of California Santa Cruz Department of Earth and Planetary Science in Santa Cruz, CA. It will be based primarily on the UCSC main campus, with secondary office and research space at the Monterey Bay Education, Science, and Technology Center (MBEST).

Position Details

This position will work to protect and enhance California's natural and agricultural resources through innovative research and extension activities related to improved water quality, water-use efficiency, and water supply security, ultimately increasing the ecological sustainability of agriculture in California's Central Coast region.

Major duties and responsibilities include:

Conduct transdisciplinary applied research on a range of coastal hydrology and related agricultural management issues, potentially including topics related to :
o Climate adaptation
o Drought management
o Groundwater sustainability and governance
o Links between water supply and quality
o Hydrologic system services and processes in coastal basins
o Corporate water stewardship
o Water policy
o Water diplomacy
o The food-water-energy nexus
o Coastal hydrology issues unique to the soils and other conditions found on the Central Coast
o Soil management and limiting erosion into waterways, estuaries, and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
A variety of research methods are possible, including field and controlled plot studies, comparisons between systems across the Central Coast and elsewhere in California, the use of drone and remote sensing data to assess water use and related processes, laboratory tests, and modeling of linked systems. The Specialist will be provided space at the MBEST Center and have access to the UCSC Farm, Hansen REC, and other active farms for research trials and studies.
Extend knowledge and serve as a resource and collaborator for UCCE Advisors, county agricultural commissioners, pest control associations, governmental scientists, and regulatory personnel. Outreach methods will include in-person and virtual meetings, educational seminars and workshops, and electronic tools such as social media, standard media outlets, and blogs. Examples of possible extension activities include:
o Supporting agencies to develop and implement document goals and requirements for water management (e.g., Groundwater Sustainability Plans, Water Use Efficiency Plans).
o Shaping water planning processes by hosting workshops with government agencies and nonprofit organizations (e.g., evaluating implementation of Integrated Watershed Management Plans).
o Informing legislators and the public via high-profile media interaction and briefings.
Collaborate with UC Cooperative Extension Advisors and Specialists across the Central Coast region and throughout California as well as other parts of UC ANR's extensive network. Develop strong ties with relevant UC ANR Program Teams (e.g., Water Resources) as well as the Hansen Research and Extension Center and the UC ANR California Institute for Water Resources.
Interact with partners at UCSC, including faculty in the Earth and Planetary Sciences Department, as well as Environmental Studies, Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology, and the Center for Agroecology.
Build a network eternal to UC ANR and UCSC, including staff of government agencies (e.g., The California Department of Water, the Coastal Commission, the U.S. Geological Survey, regional Resource Conservation Districts), as well as relevant non-profit organizations (e.g., The Nature Conservancy, the Public Policy Institute of California), local foundations and land trusts, other institutions of higher education (e.g., Cal State University Monterey Bay/Channel Islands), and elected officials.
Publish in relevant ANR outlets and external scientific journals appropriate for their field and discipline, such as the Journal of Water Resources Planning and Management, Water Resources Research, Water Policy, Environmental Science and Technology, Environmental Management, and California Agriculture.

Counties of Responsibility: This state-wide position will serve California's coastal communities.

Reporting Relationship: The position will be located at the UC Santa Cruz campus in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences. The appointment is within UC ANR, and UC ANR will oversee the merit and promotion process, consistent with other UC ANR CE Specialists, in consultation with the UCSC Department Chair. The CE specialist will also hold an additional 0% (uncompensated) CE Specialist appointment at UCSC. It is not a remote position; the candidate must be available to work onsite at the UCSC campus.
Qualifications and Skills Required
Education: A minimum of a Ph.D. (or international equivalent) in Water Resources or a closely 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
A portfolio of work demonstrating experience in water resources research.
Experience in leading collaborative research teams.
Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
Strong publication record.
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 a valid California Driver's License to drive a university vehicle.
Applicants need to meet appointment criteria for the respective University of California academic title series and evidence of being able to meet the required academic advancement criteria as per UC Academic Personnel Manuals. Applications need to document relevant research, extension, teaching experience, and appropriate scholarly achievements.

Desired Experience
Experience with integrated research and educational projects and extension to diverse audiences.
A record of public and stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
A track record of applying for and securing grant funding.

Skills Required

To be successful, Cooperative Extension Specialist positions require skills in the following:

Technical competence
Conduct and report needs assessments to identify priority issues or problems relevant to the clientele groups being 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
coastal hydrology and water resources.
Disseminate appropriate, science-based information to inform clientele, using extension methods that are responsive to clientele needs and appropriate 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 a variety of outreach methods e.g., peer-reviewed publications, internet, workshops, and newsletters.

Collaboration & Teamwork
Build collaborative working relationships with CE Advisors, CE Specialists, Academic Coordinators, and program staff across UC ANR, via participation in program teams and work groups.
Interact with campus academic colleagues to create synergies that will advance the programmatic goals of the UC Santa Cruz Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences and UC ANR.
Interact with partners at UCSC, including faculty and students in the Earth and Planetary Sciences Department, Environmental Studies, Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology, and the Center for Agroecology, via occasional lectures and other academic functions (such as serving on dissertation committees, oral exams, etc.). Per UC Academic Personnel Policy 334, Specialist in Cooperative Extension Series, the teaching of regular undergraduate or graduate courses will not be a responsibility of the position.
Engage in campus faculty meetings, campus faculty committee service, and other activities of the UC Santa Cruz faculty as appropriate.
Lifelong Learning
Participate in professional organizations and collaborate with state government and agencies related to coastal hydrology and water 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- $87,700 to Step 6 - $114,800 annually. Rank/step placement in this series is based on applicable experience and professional qualifications. For information regarding the Cooperative Extension Specialist series salary scales, please refer to
https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/2024-25/july-2024-scales/t29.pdf.
This position is eligible for indefinite status, subject to terms noted in Section 315 of the ANR Policy and Procedure Manual (PPM). 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 completion of 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 and the continuing need for the position.
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 as per the terms of University policy. ANR is part of UC's Family-Friendly Policies. For more information, refer to the UC Benefits website at: http://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/.
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 has to offer. 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 University of California Santa Cruz
UCSC, one of the UC system's ten campuses, opened in 1965. It is known for impactful research, teaching, and public service, along with innovation in many fields. Located in and around a redwood forest overlooking the Monterey Bay, UC Santa Cruz is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful college campuses in the world. The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at UC Santa Cruz is a leader in research excellence and innovative teaching, runs one of the largest undergraduate Earth Sciences programs in the country, and operates UCSC's Environmental Sciences BS major. UCSC is also home to the Center for Agroecology. The Center is an organization of staff, faculty, and students who work to advance agroecology and equitable food systems through experiential education, participatory research, agricultural extension, and public service. Its centerpieces are the 3-acre Alan Chadwick Garden and the 30-acre UCSC Farm, which serve as outdoor classrooms and teaching sites.

Learn more about
UC ANR and UC ANR Mission Statement.
UC Santa Cruz
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 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 UC ANR's Affirmative Action 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.
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 previous 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.
UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students, and Third Parties
APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment
How to Apply
If interested in this position, please visit: https://recruit.ucanr.edu/ and choose "applicants" (refer to position #25-16. 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 August 2, 2025 (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
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), is strictly prohibited.
Application Requirements
Document requirements
- Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
- Cover Letter
- Statement of Research and Extension - Statement of Research and Extension
  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).
- Transcripts - 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)
Three names, titles and contact information.
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
Santa Cruz, CA

To apply, please visit: https://recruit.ucanr.edu/JPF00329

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