Orchard Systems Extension Advisor - Multi-County Impact

International Society for Horticultural Science; Modesto, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 86,000 - 109,000; Full time

Job summary

The UC Cooperative Extension invites applications for an Area Orchard Systems Advisor serving Stanislaus and San Joaquin Counties. The advisor will lead applied research and extension programs focused on almonds, pistachios, peaches, and apricots, addressing irrigation, nutrient management, pest control, and soil health.

Located in Modesto, this on-site role collaborates with farmers, industry partners, and UC ANR specialists to translate research into practical farm practices and policy

Qualifications

• Education: Master’s degree in pomology, horticulture, plant science or related field at time of appointment.
• Experience delivering extension education and outreach to growers and stakeholders.
• Ability to collaborate with diverse teams including county staff, specialists and industry partners.
• Willingness to travel within Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties as needed.

Responsibilities

• Develop an applied research program addressing irrigation, fertigation, canopy management and soil health in orchard systems.
• Lead extension programs and educational activities for farmers, PCA/CCA professionals, and industry partners.
• Collaborate with other UC ANR academics for statewide and local impact.
• Support policy-relevant work and publication opportunities across crops and disciplines.

Skills

Applied research

Outreach programming

Team collaboration

Travel flexibility

Communication skills

Data analysis

Education

Master’s degree in pomology/horticulture or related field

Job description

The UC Cooperative Extension invites applications for an Area Orchard Systems Advisor serving Stanislaus and San Joaquin Counties. The advisor will lead applied research and extension programs focused on almonds, pistachios, peaches, and apricots, addressing irrigation, nutrient management, pest control, and soil health.

Located in Modesto, this on-site role collaborates with farmers, industry partners, and UC ANR specialists to translate research into practical farm practices and policy