Cooperative Extension Area 4-H Youth Development Advisor for Outdoor Education

About UC ANR

The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) bridges the gap between local issues and the expertise of the UC system. As part of a nationwide Cooperative Extension network, we connect research from land-grant universities with the everyday needs of communities across the United States. Our mission is to cultivate thriving communities, sustainable agriculture, resilient ecosystems, and economic prosperity in California and globally through equitable generation and sharing of collaborative, science-based solutions.

Over 180 UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Advisors conduct applied research and extension education from county-based offices, serving all 58 counties. By working and living among those we serve, UC ANR expands the University's reach to ensure equal access to its resources.

About the Role

We are seeking a UC Cooperative Extension Area 4-H Youth Development Advisor for Outdoor Education to lead programs in Lassen, Modoc, Plumas, and Sierra Counties. Headquartered in Lassen County, this role is dedicated to developing and delivering extension and research programs that provide youth with meaningful personal development opportunities.

The Advisor will frame their work in positive youth development, emphasizing outdoor education to promote program growth and expanded participation. This position involves cultivating strong community and academic networks to support an effective flow of information and creative work. The Advisor will provide academic oversight of the 4-H community club program and educational leadership to county-based staff, educators, volunteers, and community members.

A unique aspect of this role is the opportunity to leverage the region's vast natural resources. Lassen, Modoc, Plumas, and Sierra Counties feature millions of acres of public land, recreation facilities, trails, and outdoor education opportunities. The Advisor will utilize these assets to create youth-to-youth learning models, youth-led community events, and regional camping experiences that integrate area youth with their peers.

The role balances applied research with extension activities. Research will be needs-based and mission-oriented, addressing community challenges such as leadership skill development, youth motivation, and long-term outcomes of youth development. Extension activities will disseminate these findings through workshops, field demonstrations, publications, and digital media to help communities adopt new practices and improve social and environmental conditions.

About the Region

The four counties served are located in the far northeastern corner of California, at the intersection of the Sierra-Nevada mountains, the Cascade Range, the Great Basin, and the Modoc Plateau. Defined by small agricultural valleys flanked by mountains, forests, and rangelands, the area offers almost unlimited outdoor recreation opportunities. These rural counties are supported by agriculture and natural resource-based economies, with small, widely dispersed communities.

Hiring Process

Applications are accepted starting October 31, 2025. The most recent review date is Sunday, March 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM (Pacific Time). Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee only if the position has not yet been filled. Applications will continue to be accepted until Monday, June 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM (Pacific Time).

Equal Opportunity

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected group. UC ANR is committed to building a diverse workforce reflective of the people of California, and encourages applications from women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities.