Food Business Specialist (CES 3) Fresno, CA, Job ID 79630

Position Overview

The Food Business Specialist (Community Education Specialist 3) based in Fresno, CA at the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources supports outreach, education, and technical assistance for the Local Farm and Food Innovation (F3Local) Initiative’s Farm-to-Market program. Serving Merced, Fresno, Madera, Kings, and Tulare Counties, the specialist develops curricula, coordinates workshops, and provides one-on-one technical assistance to small-scale farmers, food entrepreneurs, and innovators. This is a 100% fixed contract appointment. Compensation: $49,200.00/year to $66,200.00/year.

Key Responsibilities

• Education and Training Development (50%): Develop, design, and evaluate educational materials tailored to the target audience. Plan and deliver presentations to enhance the skills of food entrepreneurs, and provide personalized technical assistance on licensing, permitting, access to capital, business planning, and marketing support.
• Outreach and Community Engagement (40%): Increase outreach and technical assistance by developing effective methods, delivering presentations, and collaborating with local technical providers. Inform small business owners and entrepreneurs about available educational resources and engagement opportunities, and build partnerships within the community.
• Data Collection and Management (10%): Assist with program activities by collecting and managing data, maintaining databases and Excel records, tracking activities and expenses, and preparing evaluation reports, summaries, and case studies.

Required Qualifications

• Associate's degree with coursework in food science, food service management, food safety, agricultural economics, agricultural business, business management/administration, entrepreneurship, community development or equivalent experience/training.
• Thorough knowledge of community education, community engagement, and facilitation best practices.
• Proven ability to engage with diverse communities and build strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, and community groups.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills (verbal, written, and interpersonal).
• Proficiency in using Windows-based computers and Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience/training.
• Experience teaching and working with diverse audiences, including underserved populations.
• Background in community engagement and/or economic development.
• Business acumen with experience in business planning, financial management, marketing, and sales for small businesses.
• Technical proficiency in areas such as food safety, sanitation, menu development, inventory management, and supply chain logistics.
• Experience organizing workshops, conferences, or community events to support small-scale farms and food businesses.
• Bilingual communication/translation abilities in English and Spanish, Hmong, Mien, Punjabi, or other community languages.