Head of South Coast Research & Extension (Hybrid)

University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources; Irvine (CA); Hybrid; USD 108,000 - 157,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Competitive salary

Job summary

The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) invites applications for the Director of the South Coast Research and Extension Center in Irvine, CA. This leadership role oversees research, extension, and outreach programs across a 200-acre site and aligns with UC ANR's mission to advance sustainable agriculture and natural resource stewardship.

The position is a 100% fixed career appointment with hybrid work options for California residents, offering a pay scale of

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in agriculture, natural resources, environmental science, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in managing research, extension, or facility operations.
• Demonstrated knowledge of agricultural production systems, research design, and regulatory compliance.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, physical resources, and staff effectively.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to work with diverse academic, industry, and public partners.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, plan strategically, and manage complex operations.
• Ability to travel throughout California as required.

Responsibilities

• 40% Program Leadership and Research Management: Provides leadership and direction for applied research, demonstration, and extension activities at South Coast REC. Oversees project review, resource allocation, and coordination with UC faculty, CE advisors, and collaborators. Ensures projects address regional and statewide priorities and meet compliance standards. Integrates research results into extension and outreach programs.
• 25% Administrative and Operational Oversight: Directs daily operations of the 200-acre agricultural and environmental research facility. Manages annual budgets, cost recovery, contracts, and facility maintenance. Oversees safety, regulatory compliance, and environmental stewardship. Manages scheduling and use of research and outreach spaces.
• 15% Outreach and Partnership Development: Represents UC ANR and South Coast REC to regional stakeholders, commodity groups, and the public. Builds collaborative relationships with agencies, industries, and community organizations. Coordinates outreach events, workshops, and field days that communicate research findings and public benefits.
• 10% Personnel Management: Supervises, trains, and evaluates professional, administrative, and field staff. Fosters a supportive, inclusive, and safety-conscious workplace. Provides staff with clear direction, goals, and professional development opportunities.
• 10% Strategic Planning and Evaluation: Develops and implements strategic plans for research focus areas, land use, and infrastructure investment. Evaluates programs using UC ANR metrics. Identifies funding, partnerships, and grant opportunities to sustain and expand Center programs. Participates in statewide REC leadership initiatives.

Education

Bachelor's degree in agriculture, natural resources, environmental science, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Job description

The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) invites applications for the Director of the South Coast Research and Extension Center in Irvine, CA. This leadership role oversees research, extension, and outreach programs across a 200-acre site and aligns with UC ANR's mission to advance sustainable agriculture and natural resource stewardship.

The position is a 100% fixed career appointment with hybrid work options for California residents, offering a pay scale of