University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources
UC Cooperative Extension Specialist- Community Economic Development: Outdoor Rec
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, Davis, California, us, 95617
UC Cooperative Extension Specialist – Community Economic Development: Outdoor Recreation and Tourism (AP 25-36)
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources
Application Window Open date: December 9, 2025 Next review date: Thursday, Jan 29, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) – Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee. Final date: Saturday, Feb 28, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) – Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
Position Overview The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) invites applications for a UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Specialist at the Assistant Rank. California's outdoor recreation economy is the largest in the United States. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, California's outdoor recreation activities led the nation in value, accounting for 2.1 percent of the state's GDP in 2023-approximately $81.5 billion, which encompassed more than 545,000 jobs and $38.1 billion in earnings. Activities include boating and fishing, cycling, climbing, hunting and shooting, winter snow sports, equestrian activities, recreational aviation, OHV/ATV use, recreational vehicles, and more. Sales of consumer goods, travel, and tourism expenses, as well as the cost of participating in outdoor recreational activities, all generate spending that contributes significantly to federal, state, and local tax revenue. This economic impact is particularly significant for rural gateway communities, where outdoor recreation and tourism-related activities comprise a substantial portion of local economic activity. Outdoor recreation economies are interconnected with multiple community domains, including strategic planning, workforce and economic development, infrastructure, small business support, housing, creative and knowledge economies, arts and culture, food and entertainment, youth development, and health and wellness.
The Specialist will balance opportunities and impacts of outdoor recreation and tourism, spanning infrastructure, natural resources, environmental stewardship, and sustainable, equitable economic development. With expertise across these domains and in facilitating collaborative approaches to community problem-solving, Cooperative Extension is well-positioned to help communities manage and leverage their outdoor recreation and tourism assets. This Specialist will work in a unique role at the intersection of community economic development and outdoor recreation and tourism through an innovative research and extension program. In collaboration with academics, public agencies, and partners from the non-profit and private sectors, they will build capacity across California to foster outdoor recreation and tourism opportunities, as well as their benefits to local economies. The Specialist will work closely with UC ANR's Community Economic Development Program Area to develop statewide and local plans for sustainably enhancing California's outdoor recreation and tourism industries.
Responsibilities
Develop and implement a collaborative research, education, and outreach program to build and strengthen California's outdoor recreation and tourism economy. Best practices in Destination Management and sustainable tourism strategies
Develop toolkits, case studies, and other tools that communities can use to maximize their outdoor recreation and tourism opportunities for collaborative partnerships, infrastructure, small business, and workforce development
Innovative public and private financing and policy mechanisms for outdoor recreation infrastructure and small business development, community and economic development incentives and land use practices, community benefits, workforce development, and other measures
Develop economic, workforce, visitor and tourism profiles and data tools and strategic planning methods to support local planning collaboratives, set baselines and track progress
Provide research and data support for local partners to create baseline and performance assessments of economic, community, and environmental indicators that support understanding of tourism and visitor activities and profiles, industry and business conditions, outdoor recreation infrastructure and stakeholder assets, labor and workforce conditions, and environmental and natural resources impacts in the context of sustainable recreation and tourism.
Develop and support strategic planning and capacity to implement sustainable recreation and tourism development projects, working with multiple community partners, state and federal agencies (particularly land managers and parks), private sector partners like Chambers of Commerce and Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) and industry associations, educational institutions, and community-based organizations, like outdoor recreation user groups and advocacy organizations.
Work with tribal partners, Latino communities, and other underrepresented communities as partners in planning for sustainable recreation and tourism.
Support fund development, grantmaking, incentives, and policy measures that promise to enhance regional business activity, improve quality of life (including placemaking, arts and creative economy, main street revitalization), and mitigate environmental impacts that result from activities in the tourism and recreation economy.
Extend knowledge on outdoor recreation and tourism through different modalities and approaches, which may include extension publications, newsletters, web pages, blogs, policy briefs, UCCE Advisor meetings, on-site visits to partner locations, and clientele workshops.
Collaborate with UCCE Advisors and Specialists, UC ANR statewide programs, institutes, program teams and the newly established Outdoor Recreation Institute to develop statewide and local plans for developing California's outdoor recreation and tourism industries.
Publish in relevant UCANR outlets and external peer-reviewed journals appropriate for the field of outdoor recreation.
Qualifications Education:
A minimum of a Ph.D. (or international equivalent) in community economic development, business, tourism and recreation, outdoor recreation, economics, public administration, public policy, urban planning, rural sociology, landscape architecture, natural resource management, environmental studies, or a closely related field is required at the time of appointment. Applicants who have not yet earned a Ph.D. must be within 12 months of completing their degree to be considered for the position.
At least two years of professional experience in program administration and with multi-stakeholder partnerships
Professional experience in community economic development or outdoor recreation and tourism
Strong publication record in academic journal literature, as well as community-oriented fact sheets, research briefs, white papers, etc.
Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills
The ability to collaborate effectively with private, public, and non‑profit sector stakeholders
Experience working in cross‑disciplinary, multi‑stakeholder public‑private collaboratives, including technical assistance, capacity building, and partnership‑related work, such as strategy planning and project identification.
Demonstrated ability to effectively plan programs, manage teams, and implement an applied research and outreach program, including setting measurable goals and objectives.
Ability and means to travel on a flexible schedule as needed, proof of liability, and property damage insurance on the vehicle used are required. Must possess or obtain a valid California Driver's License to drive a university vehicle.
Applicants need to meet appointment criteria for the respective University of California academic title series per the UC Academic Personnel Manuals. Applications need to document research, extension, and/or teaching experience applicable to the academic title and document appropriate scholarly achievements relevant to this position.
We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time. Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. at the time of hire.
A background investigation will be required for the successful candidate, including fingerprinting and a criminal history clearance by the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This position is subject to the requirements and compliance of the California's Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA). Employment within UC ANR is contingent upon securing written acknowledgement to comply with California law.
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer. 'Misconduct' means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
Desired Experience
Experience in integrated research and educational projects, and extension to diverse audiences
Familiarity with California's outdoor recreation and tourism economies
A track record of applying for and securing extramural grant funding
Experience in rural and Gateway communities and natural resource‑based and outdoor recreation tourism‑based economies
Applied data analysis in standard and novel approaches to community and economic planning and strategy, such as tourism visitor data, industrial and workforce profiling, economic impacts, baselining and performance measures with government and proprietary data.
Skills Required Technical Competence
Conduct and report needs assessments to identify priority issues or problems relevant to the clientele groups being served.
Develop and implement effective applied research and educational programs to address the identified priority needs of the clientele that are consistent with UC ANR's Strategic Vision and Initiatives.
Conduct applied research related to outdoor recreation and tourism and rural Gateway communities in California.
Communication
Disseminate appropriate, science‑based information to inform clientele, using extension methods that are responsive to clientele needs and appropriate for the audience and situation.
Maintain and promote UCCE's credibility by providing science‑based knowledge.
Evaluate programs and report accomplishments, results, and potential or actual impacts to scientific and lay audiences through a variety of outreach methods e.g., peer‑reviewed publications, internet, workshops, and newsletters.
Collaboration & Teamwork
Build collaborative working relationships with UCCE Advisors, UCCE Specialists, Academic Coordinators, and program staff across UC ANR, via participation in program teams and workgroups.
Lifelong Learning
Participate in professional organizations and collaborate with state government and agencies related to outdoor recreation and tourism in California.
Demonstrate commitment to ongoing growth - both professionally and as a person.
Salary & Benefits The beginning salary will be in the Assistant Cooperative Extension Specialist Rank Step 1—$90,600 to Step 6—$118,500 annually. Rank/step placement in this series is based on applicable experience and professional qualifications. For information regarding the Cooperative Extension Specialist series salary scales, please refer to the respective PDF.
The Cooperative Extension Specialist position is a two‑year renewable term appointment. Performance in this position is evaluated annually, with merit actions being evaluated every two years. Upon completion of a successful review, you may be reappointed for another definite term. Our intention with this definite‑term appointment is to be reappointed based on positive performance reviews and the continuing need for the position.
This position is eligible for indefinite status, subject to terms noted in Section 315 of the ANR Policy and Procedure Manual. If the successful candidate is currently a UCCE specialist with indefinite status, the candidate will be offered the position commensurate with applicable experience and professional qualifications with eligibility to retain such indefinite status.
Benefits: The University of California offers comprehensive benefits, including two days per month paid vacation, one day per month paid sick leave, and paid holidays. This position is eligible for sabbatical leave privileges as per the terms of University policy. UC ANR is part of UC's Family‑Friendly Policies. For more information, refer to the UC Benefits website.
Application Requirements Document Requirements
Curriculum Vitae – Your most recently updated C.V.
Cover Letter
Statement of Research and Extension – Please submit a Statement of Research and Extension Interests including how your current and/or past research and extension experience could contribute to, or be applicable to, the needs of the local community. Provide examples of potential goals and outcomes from your research and extension activities.
References – Please provide 3 references including names, titles, emails and phone numbers.
College Level Transcripts – Electronic transcripts or legible scanned copies (PDF) of original transcripts will be accepted. Transcripts must identify course work completed, grades earned, degrees conferred and confer dates. Please DO NOT send transcripts that are password protected.
Reference Requirements
3-6 required (contact information only)
Contact Questions? Contact Mikyla Perez at mikperez@ucanr.edu
Equal Opportunity Employer The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
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University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources
Application Window Open date: December 9, 2025 Next review date: Thursday, Jan 29, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) – Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee. Final date: Saturday, Feb 28, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) – Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
Position Overview The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) invites applications for a UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Specialist at the Assistant Rank. California's outdoor recreation economy is the largest in the United States. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, California's outdoor recreation activities led the nation in value, accounting for 2.1 percent of the state's GDP in 2023-approximately $81.5 billion, which encompassed more than 545,000 jobs and $38.1 billion in earnings. Activities include boating and fishing, cycling, climbing, hunting and shooting, winter snow sports, equestrian activities, recreational aviation, OHV/ATV use, recreational vehicles, and more. Sales of consumer goods, travel, and tourism expenses, as well as the cost of participating in outdoor recreational activities, all generate spending that contributes significantly to federal, state, and local tax revenue. This economic impact is particularly significant for rural gateway communities, where outdoor recreation and tourism-related activities comprise a substantial portion of local economic activity. Outdoor recreation economies are interconnected with multiple community domains, including strategic planning, workforce and economic development, infrastructure, small business support, housing, creative and knowledge economies, arts and culture, food and entertainment, youth development, and health and wellness.
The Specialist will balance opportunities and impacts of outdoor recreation and tourism, spanning infrastructure, natural resources, environmental stewardship, and sustainable, equitable economic development. With expertise across these domains and in facilitating collaborative approaches to community problem-solving, Cooperative Extension is well-positioned to help communities manage and leverage their outdoor recreation and tourism assets. This Specialist will work in a unique role at the intersection of community economic development and outdoor recreation and tourism through an innovative research and extension program. In collaboration with academics, public agencies, and partners from the non-profit and private sectors, they will build capacity across California to foster outdoor recreation and tourism opportunities, as well as their benefits to local economies. The Specialist will work closely with UC ANR's Community Economic Development Program Area to develop statewide and local plans for sustainably enhancing California's outdoor recreation and tourism industries.
Responsibilities
Develop and implement a collaborative research, education, and outreach program to build and strengthen California's outdoor recreation and tourism economy. Best practices in Destination Management and sustainable tourism strategies
Develop toolkits, case studies, and other tools that communities can use to maximize their outdoor recreation and tourism opportunities for collaborative partnerships, infrastructure, small business, and workforce development
Innovative public and private financing and policy mechanisms for outdoor recreation infrastructure and small business development, community and economic development incentives and land use practices, community benefits, workforce development, and other measures
Develop economic, workforce, visitor and tourism profiles and data tools and strategic planning methods to support local planning collaboratives, set baselines and track progress
Provide research and data support for local partners to create baseline and performance assessments of economic, community, and environmental indicators that support understanding of tourism and visitor activities and profiles, industry and business conditions, outdoor recreation infrastructure and stakeholder assets, labor and workforce conditions, and environmental and natural resources impacts in the context of sustainable recreation and tourism.
Develop and support strategic planning and capacity to implement sustainable recreation and tourism development projects, working with multiple community partners, state and federal agencies (particularly land managers and parks), private sector partners like Chambers of Commerce and Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) and industry associations, educational institutions, and community-based organizations, like outdoor recreation user groups and advocacy organizations.
Work with tribal partners, Latino communities, and other underrepresented communities as partners in planning for sustainable recreation and tourism.
Support fund development, grantmaking, incentives, and policy measures that promise to enhance regional business activity, improve quality of life (including placemaking, arts and creative economy, main street revitalization), and mitigate environmental impacts that result from activities in the tourism and recreation economy.
Extend knowledge on outdoor recreation and tourism through different modalities and approaches, which may include extension publications, newsletters, web pages, blogs, policy briefs, UCCE Advisor meetings, on-site visits to partner locations, and clientele workshops.
Collaborate with UCCE Advisors and Specialists, UC ANR statewide programs, institutes, program teams and the newly established Outdoor Recreation Institute to develop statewide and local plans for developing California's outdoor recreation and tourism industries.
Publish in relevant UCANR outlets and external peer-reviewed journals appropriate for the field of outdoor recreation.
Qualifications Education:
A minimum of a Ph.D. (or international equivalent) in community economic development, business, tourism and recreation, outdoor recreation, economics, public administration, public policy, urban planning, rural sociology, landscape architecture, natural resource management, environmental studies, or a closely related field is required at the time of appointment. Applicants who have not yet earned a Ph.D. must be within 12 months of completing their degree to be considered for the position.
At least two years of professional experience in program administration and with multi-stakeholder partnerships
Professional experience in community economic development or outdoor recreation and tourism
Strong publication record in academic journal literature, as well as community-oriented fact sheets, research briefs, white papers, etc.
Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills
The ability to collaborate effectively with private, public, and non‑profit sector stakeholders
Experience working in cross‑disciplinary, multi‑stakeholder public‑private collaboratives, including technical assistance, capacity building, and partnership‑related work, such as strategy planning and project identification.
Demonstrated ability to effectively plan programs, manage teams, and implement an applied research and outreach program, including setting measurable goals and objectives.
Ability and means to travel on a flexible schedule as needed, proof of liability, and property damage insurance on the vehicle used are required. Must possess or obtain a valid California Driver's License to drive a university vehicle.
Applicants need to meet appointment criteria for the respective University of California academic title series per the UC Academic Personnel Manuals. Applications need to document research, extension, and/or teaching experience applicable to the academic title and document appropriate scholarly achievements relevant to this position.
We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time. Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. at the time of hire.
A background investigation will be required for the successful candidate, including fingerprinting and a criminal history clearance by the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This position is subject to the requirements and compliance of the California's Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA). Employment within UC ANR is contingent upon securing written acknowledgement to comply with California law.
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer. 'Misconduct' means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
Desired Experience
Experience in integrated research and educational projects, and extension to diverse audiences
Familiarity with California's outdoor recreation and tourism economies
A track record of applying for and securing extramural grant funding
Experience in rural and Gateway communities and natural resource‑based and outdoor recreation tourism‑based economies
Applied data analysis in standard and novel approaches to community and economic planning and strategy, such as tourism visitor data, industrial and workforce profiling, economic impacts, baselining and performance measures with government and proprietary data.
Skills Required Technical Competence
Conduct and report needs assessments to identify priority issues or problems relevant to the clientele groups being served.
Develop and implement effective applied research and educational programs to address the identified priority needs of the clientele that are consistent with UC ANR's Strategic Vision and Initiatives.
Conduct applied research related to outdoor recreation and tourism and rural Gateway communities in California.
Communication
Disseminate appropriate, science‑based information to inform clientele, using extension methods that are responsive to clientele needs and appropriate for the audience and situation.
Maintain and promote UCCE's credibility by providing science‑based knowledge.
Evaluate programs and report accomplishments, results, and potential or actual impacts to scientific and lay audiences through a variety of outreach methods e.g., peer‑reviewed publications, internet, workshops, and newsletters.
Collaboration & Teamwork
Build collaborative working relationships with UCCE Advisors, UCCE Specialists, Academic Coordinators, and program staff across UC ANR, via participation in program teams and workgroups.
Lifelong Learning
Participate in professional organizations and collaborate with state government and agencies related to outdoor recreation and tourism in California.
Demonstrate commitment to ongoing growth - both professionally and as a person.
Salary & Benefits The beginning salary will be in the Assistant Cooperative Extension Specialist Rank Step 1—$90,600 to Step 6—$118,500 annually. Rank/step placement in this series is based on applicable experience and professional qualifications. For information regarding the Cooperative Extension Specialist series salary scales, please refer to the respective PDF.
The Cooperative Extension Specialist position is a two‑year renewable term appointment. Performance in this position is evaluated annually, with merit actions being evaluated every two years. Upon completion of a successful review, you may be reappointed for another definite term. Our intention with this definite‑term appointment is to be reappointed based on positive performance reviews and the continuing need for the position.
This position is eligible for indefinite status, subject to terms noted in Section 315 of the ANR Policy and Procedure Manual. If the successful candidate is currently a UCCE specialist with indefinite status, the candidate will be offered the position commensurate with applicable experience and professional qualifications with eligibility to retain such indefinite status.
Benefits: The University of California offers comprehensive benefits, including two days per month paid vacation, one day per month paid sick leave, and paid holidays. This position is eligible for sabbatical leave privileges as per the terms of University policy. UC ANR is part of UC's Family‑Friendly Policies. For more information, refer to the UC Benefits website.
Application Requirements Document Requirements
Curriculum Vitae – Your most recently updated C.V.
Cover Letter
Statement of Research and Extension – Please submit a Statement of Research and Extension Interests including how your current and/or past research and extension experience could contribute to, or be applicable to, the needs of the local community. Provide examples of potential goals and outcomes from your research and extension activities.
References – Please provide 3 references including names, titles, emails and phone numbers.
College Level Transcripts – Electronic transcripts or legible scanned copies (PDF) of original transcripts will be accepted. Transcripts must identify course work completed, grades earned, degrees conferred and confer dates. Please DO NOT send transcripts that are password protected.
Reference Requirements
3-6 required (contact information only)
Contact Questions? Contact Mikyla Perez at mikperez@ucanr.edu
Equal Opportunity Employer The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
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