Cooperative Extension Viticulture Advisor - Northern San Joaquin Valley (AP# 21-35)

University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) invites applications for a Cooperative Extension Viticulture Advisor serving San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and southern Sacramento Counties.

About the role

The Advisor will implement an innovative extension education and applied research program to address high-priority issues in wine grape production, including pest and water management. The role focuses on both experienced and entry-level grape growers, supporting viticultural practices, pest and water management, and new technologies to improve industry competitiveness and wine grape quality.

Secondary responsibilities include supporting other berry crop producers, such as blueberries and cranberries, though the primary emphasis remains on wine grape production. The Advisor will collaborate with growers, industry partners, and crop consultants, and join a team of motivated UCCE colleagues dedicated to community impact.

This position is headquartered in San Joaquin County with regional responsibilities in southern Sacramento County (the Lodi Appellation) and Stanislaus County. The role is not remote; the candidate must work onsite and travel within the coverage area.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver extension education programs on viticulture, pest management, water conservation, and new technologies.
• Conduct applied research to address challenges in wine grape production, including regulatory and environmental compliance.
• Disseminate research findings through workshops, field demonstrations, webinars, fact sheets, policy briefs, news blogs, social media, and peer-reviewed publications.
• Provide individual consultations, farm visits, and site-specific recommendations to growers.
• Collaborate with industry stakeholders, county-based staff, and UC ANR colleagues to promote science-based solutions.
• Support secondary berry crop producers (e.g., blueberries, cranberries) as needed.
• Obtain a Qualified Pesticide Applicator Certificate (QAC) within one year of hire.

Requirements

• A master’s degree in viticulture, horticulture, crop science, soil science, pest management, or a closely related field (required at time of appointment).
• Demonstrated ability in applied agricultural research and extension.
• General knowledge of crop production, including soil, water, fertility, and pest management.
• Experience with vineyards or orchard crops (desired).
• Experience in Cooperative Extension programming or community development (desired).
• Valid California Driver’s License and ability to travel flexibly; proof of vehicle insurance required.
• Authorization to work in the U.S. without sponsorship (required).

Skills

• Technical competence in planning, managing, and implementing research programs with measurable goals.
• Excellent written, oral, interpersonal, and information technology communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including growers, industry partners, and colleagues.
• Commitment to lifelong learning and adapting to industry and organizational changes.
• Cultural competency to work with clientele across socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds.

Benefits

Employment with UC ANR includes access to University of California benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. The role is evaluated through an academic advancement system based on extending knowledge, applied research, professional competence, and public service.

About the region

The Northern San Joaquin Valley is a dynamic agricultural region bridging the Sacramento metropolitan area, the San Francisco Bay, and California’s Central Valley. Key cities include Stockton, Modesto, Tracy, Manteca, and Lodi, with the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta providing critical water resources, recreation, and wildlife habitat.

The region is internationally recognized for wine grape production, particularly in the Lodi American Viticulture Area (AVA), which spans ~85,000 acres and produces 20% of California’s wine. The Lodi AVA is known for its diversity of grape varieties (130+), sustainable practices (Lodi Rules certification), and family-owned farms. The area also supports diverse agriculture, including tree crops (almonds, walnuts, cherries), vegetables, grains, and dairy operations.