University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources seeks a Woody Biomass & Bioenergy Advisor

This position offers the opportunity to integrate and bring focus to woody biomass utilization by working with and across UC ANRs efforts to improve forest management, woody biomass utilization, and promote long-term economic development and community resilience. Education programs will have positive impacts on vegetation management, woody biomass utilization, and development of associated economic development projects.

This is an exciting opportunity to develop and deliver relevant program content to have meaningful impacts in local communities and throughout California.

Opportunities abound for extension and research partnerships with forest landowners, natural resource professionals, private enterprises involved in woody biomass utilization, and local, state, and federal agencies. The advisor joins a team of highly motivated UCCE colleagues across the state who are passionate about their work and are dedicated to making a difference within the communities and throughout California. The potential for collaborative projects within the UC ANR system is nearly limitless.

The position will

· Investigate opportunities and strategies for increasing the use of woody biomass though development of biofuels and bioenergy, as well as other products.

· Integrate efforts to enhance biomass management and natural resources manufacturing with strategies for reducing community risk from wildfires.

· Evaluate how sustainable, climate smart, forestry practices enhance community resilience.

· Develop and extend research based information on the efficacy of converting woody biomass into fuels for transportation and other products consistent with the California Forest Carbon Plan.

· Identify and develop markets for biomass-generated soil amendments for use in agricultural, forest, and urban settings consistent with goals of the Healthy Soils and other programs.

· Valid driver license.

· Solid understanding of woody biomass production systems, engineered wood products, wood science, biomass energy, or advanced manufacturing systems.

· Live within a commutable distance of the position headquarters during period of appointment.

Desired Experience

· Woody biomass system management

· Natural resource-based economies

· Carbon accounting/utilization and environmental regulations

· Renewable/bioenergy development

· Passion and desire to pursue a career in Cooperative Extension and community development

· Partnership-building with multidisciplinary teams

· Demonstrated ability to effectively plan programs, manage teams and implement an applied research and outreach program, including setting measurable goals and objectives

To be successful, the CE Advisor requires skills in the following area:

Technical Competence and Impact

The candidate should have a deep understanding of woody biomass production systems and bioenergy and be able to design and implement a program that leads to positive changes and impact within the community and beyond. There is an expectation that advisors evolve and grow across their career and respond to changes in the industry and by clientele.

Communication

Demonstrated excellence in written, oral, and interpersonal and information technology communication skills. Public speaking to stakeholders is a routine part of this position.

Demonstrated ability to share complex information in a manner tailored to the audience.

Collaboration, Teamwork and Flexibility

Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as a team member with industry and other stakeholders. Able to adapt as circumstances warranted.

Aware and willing to actively promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Lifelong Learning

Demonstrated commitment to ongoing self-improvement - both professionally and as a person. Ability to shift program focus as times and organizational needs change.

Learn more about Skills and Areas of Programmatic Review (including Professional Competence, University and Public Service and Affirmative Action and DEI) at: https://ucanr.edu/sites/anrstaff/files/319460.pdf

If interested in this position, please visit: https://recruit.ucanr.edu/ and choose “applicants” (refer to position #21-58)

Closing Date: To assure full consideration, application packets must be received by

February 8, 2022 – (open until filled)