Staff Research Associate 3 - Mariposa, CA, Job ID 84894

Position Summary The UCANR Fire Network is a statewide team with expertise across a wide range of disciplines, including fire science and ecology, prescribed fire, home hardening and defensible space, community and regional planning, grazing and fire interactions, and more. The network includes specialists on UC campuses, advisors and staff in local communities, and broad networks of partners and volunteers. The goal of the Fire Network is to inspire and empower Californians through research, education and outreach, policy, and training. Department Summary The Staff Research Associate III (SRA III) will assist Fire Advisors in the full range of program implementation duties on methods to reduce wildfire risk, especially through prescribed fire, in Mariposa and Madera Counties. The incumbent will lead a program, overseeing employees with support from a Fire Advisor as needed, focused on conducting, managing and evaluating an educational program and facilitating collaborative partnerships to increase the use of prescribed fire throughout the service areas. Field work includes assisting with field experiments, data collection of long‑term monitoring plots, prescribed fire implementation, and working with landowners and research partners to coordinate research opportunities. Office tasks include research data management, data summarization, development of social media content and formation of educational material for workshops and trainings on community wildfire preparedness, vegetation management, land stewardship, and prescribed fire. Key Responsibilities Perform and lead field‑based experimental work in fire ecology and forestry. Develop research and prepare written reports detailing field experimental methods and results. Contribute to the implementation of research plans. Conduct site visits to provide technical assistance and advise landowners on research‑based best management practices. Coordinate volunteers and logistics during field‑based procedures. Train staff, volunteers, students, and others in safe and effective field operations. Secure permits and documentation aligning with applicable regulations and protocols for field experiments. Demonstrate commitment to safety during field operations. Conduct and synthesize fire and forest ecology research to inform best‑management recommendations on private lands. Lead, refine, and evaluate ecological monitoring protocols. Collaborate with local partners and agencies to inform research and educational programming. Demonstrate commitment to professional development. Perform other duties as assigned. Requirements Demonstrated scientific and/or research expertise in fire ecology and forestry. Experience working in a research environment. Proficient analytical skills for data analysis and recommendation development. Knowledge and skill in developing and implementing procedures and techniques to accurately produce results. Effective verbal, written and interpersonal communication and presentation skills. Excellent organization, administrative and time‑management skills, ability to work independently and cooperatively with team members. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and common desktop/web applications. Preferred Skills Bachelor’s degree in a related area or equivalent experience and/or training. Experience working in a research environment. Proficient analytical skills for data analysis and recommendation development. Special Conditions of Employment Must possess a valid California Driver’s License to operate a County or University vehicle. Ability and willingness to travel flexibly as needed; liability insurance proof on the vehicle used is required. Travel reimbursement will follow University policies. Employment contingent upon successful background check; fingerprinting may be required. UC ANR hires individuals with conviction histories and reviews information in context of job responsibilities. Compliance with the University’s smoke‑ and tobacco‑free environment policy. Compliance with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs and any applicable public health directives. Disclosure of misconduct as defined by UC policies may be required. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources