Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Development Advisor Serving San Diego and Imperial Counties (AP# 22-05)

The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) is a vital division within the University of California system dedicated to connecting academic research with community needs across California. UC ANR operates as part of a nationwide Cooperative Extension network that began in the early 20th century, helping to bridge the gap between land-grant university expertise and real-world challenges faced by communities. Through cutting-edge research and extension education in agriculture, natural resources, nutrition, and youth development, UC ANR serves California’s diverse population across all 58 counties, delivering science-based solutions and fostering sustainable practices. The organization boasts over 180 county-based Cooperative Extension Advisors who work directly within communities to promote economic prosperity, environmental resilience, thriving ecosystems, and inclusive educational opportunities.

This particular role is a Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Development Advisor position focused on serving San Diego and Imperial Counties. The position is headquartered in UCCE San Diego County with extension activities also performed in Imperial County. It is a full-time, onsite role that requires availability for travel within the assigned region to participate in community engagement and outreach efforts.

As a 4-H Youth Development Advisor, you will develop, implement, and evaluate youth programs that emphasize STEAM (science, technology, engineering, agriculture, and mathematics) in ways that create meaningful personal growth opportunities for young people. California’s 4-H program strives to empower youth to become competent, confident, and connected leaders contributing positively to their communities. The advisor will design innovative applied research projects and extension education programs that increase youth participation in STEAM through hands-on learning and leadership development. You will foster collaboration with school districts, military youth centers, nonprofits, local agencies, and other community stakeholders, helping build partnerships that enhance program visibility and efficacy.

Your responsibilities will include developing educational workshops, conducting research aligned with 4-H statewide objectives, and working with county-based educators and volunteers to raise program quality. The advisor’s role is to improve youth engagement, skill development, workforce preparation, and career awareness centered around agricultural technology, animal science, artificial intelligence, robotics, and other STEAM-related areas.

The position requires a master’s degree in youth development, education, or related STEAM fields, alongside a demonstrated record of applied research, program leadership, and community partnership building. Leadership skills, communication excellence, and cultural competency are critical, as is the ability to travel and work collaboratively across diverse socioeconomic and ethnic communities. The salary range for this role spans from $85,600 to $108,600 depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits include paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, sabbatical leave eligibility, and participation in family-friendly University policies.

UC ANR is committed to inclusive excellence, Equal Opportunity employment, and adherence to California’s Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA). This role offers a unique opportunity to impact youth development through STEAM in two diverse counties with significant youth populations facing economic and educational challenges. Joining UC ANR means joining a motivated team passionate about leveraging science-based education to improve lives and communities statewide.