Small Farms Staff Research Associate 2 Fresno, CA, Job ID 81947

Position Overview

The Small Farms Staff Research Associate 2 at the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources will support sustainable agricultural production on small and diversified farms in Fresno and Madera Counties. Working on multiple grant-funded projects, the Associate will manage research plots, collect and analyze data, and facilitate bilingual outreach and educational programs. This role involves extensive field work including soil, water, plant, and insect sample collection and the setup and maintenance of research infrastructure.

Compensation: $28.88/hour to $37.36/hour | This is a career appointment with a 50% variable component.

Key Responsibilities

• Field Research & Demonstration (50%): Assist with the establishment and management of research and demonstration plots; prepare, install, and maintain equipment and supplies; collect, process, and ship various samples; contribute to experimental design; order supplies; coordinate on-farm participatory research including Spanish communication; and ensure a safe work environment.
• Data Collection & Analysis (35%): Keep accurate records by downloading and preparing field data; conduct literature reviews; summarize research findings with graphs and tables; develop and translate survey instruments; recruit and coordinate with farmers; track research activities and contacts; and analyze data to identify barriers for small-scale farmers.
• Educational Programming & Outreach (15%): Present research results and demonstrate sustainable practices at extension meetings; assist farmers with on-farm implementation and regulatory compliance; coordinate bilingual outreach via multiple channels; provide technical assistance in both English and Spanish; and contribute to the development of bilingual educational materials.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in plant science, agronomy, horticulture, agroecology, or a related field and/or equivalent experience or training.
• Relevant coursework and/or experience in water, soil, and nutrient management; integrated pest management including entomology and plant pathology; and pesticide use and compliance.
• Experience in applied agricultural research and familiarity with field setup and equipment used for agricultural practices.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Experience in extension, adult education, project coordination, or community outreach along with bilingual communication skills (reading, writing, translating, and effectively communicating in Spanish).
• Experience working with field research equipment, sensors, and monitoring devices; and familiarity with small-scale farms, diversified farming systems, or niche crops.

Special Conditions of Employment

• Must possess a valid California Driver's License and demonstrate the ability to travel on a flexible schedule. Proof of liability damage insurance is required, with job-related travel reimbursement per University policies.
• Overtime, occasional weekend work, and travel outside normal business hours may be required to meet operational needs.
• Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check (and fingerprinting if necessary). Applicants may be required to disclose any prior misconduct as defined by University policies.
• This is a smoke- and tobacco-free environment. As a condition of employment, compliance with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs is required, with potential additional public health directive requirements.