Agricultural Education Specialist (CES 3) - Hansen REC - Camarillo, CA, Job ID 81653

The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) is a renowned public research and education organization that serves all 58 counties of California. For over a century, UC ANR has been dedicated to advancing agriculture, natural resources, economic development, nutrition, and youth engagement through impactful research and community outreach. The organization is deeply committed to fostering sustainable practices, promoting public awareness, and facilitating educational initiatives that empower California residents and communities. UC ANR values collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, working closely with numerous local partners, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations to address the state's most pressing challenges. The institution upholds policies on affirmative action and anti-discrimination, maintaining a culture of respect and equity for all employees. Compliance with state and federal vaccination programs is mandatory for employment, ensuring a safe workplace. The Community Education Specialist 3 (CES 3) will be based at the Hansen Agricultural Research and Extension Center (HAREC) in Camarillo, California. HAREC’s mission is to support sustainable agriculture and natural resource management on California’s Central Coast through research and educational programs. This specialist will work closely with UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) in Ventura County, which aims to serve the community through applied research and education in agriculture, natural resources, and youth development. This role is integral in developing and managing education and outreach programs designed to increase agricultural literacy among various stakeholders including the general public, teachers, students, and professionals across the Ventura County area. The CES 3 is responsible for collaboratively planning, organizing, and evaluating educational programs such as farm field trips, summer camps, demonstration days, and curriculum development or adaptation such as Ag in the Classroom initiatives. The position involves active participation in strategic planning processes for agricultural education, including convening summits and facilitating focus groups to enhance agricultural education pathways and public awareness. By building and maintaining effective networks with educational and nonprofit partners, the CES 3 acts as a vital liaison fostering collaboration and securing funding opportunities. This is a two-year fixed-term appointment offering an annual salary ranging from $51,600 to $69,300. The role operates under the direction of the UC HAREC Director with secondary oversight from the UC Cooperative Extension Area Director for Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties. The CES 3 must be a mature and adaptable professional capable of coordinating diverse activities countywide while effectively engaging with community members and partner organizations. With responsibilities that extend from program development to event planning and public outreach, this position requires a passionate commitment to advancing agricultural education and sustaining vibrant community partnerships. The candidate must demonstrate excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills and be proficient in contemporary business software tools and virtual platforms to deliver impactful educational experiences. Given the position’s community-centric focus, the CES 3 also needs to maintain discretion when handling sensitive information and comply with all regulatory and university policies. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the long-term sustainable agricultural future of Ventura County through robust education and community engagement initiatives.

• Associate degree in agriculture, environmental science, nutrition, education, psychology, sociology, community development or related field or equivalent experience/training
• Continuing education in related field
• Thorough knowledge and experience implementing programs and developing educational materials to meet organizational needs
• Experience working with diverse youth, family and/or community audiences
• Experience collaborating with multiple community organizations
• Ability to maintain positive interactions with others and work cooperatively
• Experience in organizing, coordinating, and publicizing events
• Thorough and effective verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills and presentation skills
• Thorough analytical skills to conduct analysis and develop recommendations, demonstrating organization and problem-solving skills
• Thorough knowledge of and skill in delivering programs, including online
• Skill in using business software systems in the completion of work assignments, i.e., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Zoom