Climate Fellow

CALIFORNIA CLIMATE ACTION CORPS

Climate Fellow at Santa Clara County Office of Education

Location: San Jose, California

Number of Positions Available: 3

Time Commitment: September 16, 2024 - August 15, 2025

This is a full-time, 11-month, 1700-hour program from September 16, 2024 - August 15, 2025. Fellows commit to a 40-hour work week, typically Monday - Friday, approximately 8am - 5pm, with occasional evening and weekend commitments based on project needs. 170-340 of these hours are dedicated to professional development.

**Please note: Due to the full-time commitment of the Program, students enrolled in undergraduate courses between Sep 16, 2024 - Aug 14, 2025 will not be eligible to participate in the California Climate Action Corps Program.

——

About the California Climate Action Corps Fellowship

The California Climate Action Corps has over 350 positions available across California for the 2024-25 CCAC Fellowship. This is a climate-focused, workforce development program for emerging climate and environmental leaders. These are paid, full-time fellowships—similar to internships—but with 170-340 dedicated hours for professional development and training while receiving hands-on experience in the climate field.

CCAC Fellows serve as AmeriCorps members and are matched with organizations across California to mobilize communities to take direct climate action and lead projects focused on wildfire resiliency, urban greening, and organic waste diversion and edible food recovery.

———

Applications are accepted May 1 - August 16, 2024, with priority consideration given to applicants who apply and undergo a CCAC info session before June 21, 2024.

———

Program Benefits

Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in environmental education and sustainability projects, with access to skilled staff mentors. Through training and networking opportunities, Fellows can develop valuable skills in project management, community engagement, and advocacy, while contributing to meaningful initiatives that positively impact local communities. SCCOE fosters a collaborative and inclusive team culture, providing Fellows with a supportive environment to learn and grow professionally. Other benefits include:

• Receive up to a $33,600 stipend (pre-tax) spread evenly over 11 months
• Earn up to $10,000 (pre-tax) education award upon completion of 1700 hours
• Participate in 170-340 hours of professional development & training
• Minimum essential healthcare coverage
• Forbearance on qualifying student loans and interest payments accrued during term
• Food assistance and child care assistance (for those eligible)

Description of Duties

The Climate Fellow position with the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) presents a unique opportunity to engage with diverse communities in addressing critical environmental challenges. As Fellows, individuals will contribute to projects focused on urban greening, food waste reduction, school garden support, and the Santa Clara County Youth Climate Initiative. Fellows will adopt a multifaceted approach, engaging with communities and volunteers, and collaborate closely with SCCOE's Environmental Literacy and Sustainability team to leverage existing partnerships with community-based organizations, districts, and schools. Through a focus on Campus, Curriculum, Community, and Culture, Fellows will strive to embed sustainability principles into the fabric of educational institutions. The Climate Fellow position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the advancement of environmental education and sustainability initiatives. Play a vital role in fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and resilience in Santa Clara County. Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Design, implement, and maintain school greening projects, fostering sustainable outdoor spaces conducive to learning and environmental stewardship
• Recruit, train, and engage volunteers to design, plant, and maintain school gardens
• Develop case studies and offer ongoing support to empower schools in establishing and maintaining vibrant school garden programs to align efforts in promoting climate education, green schoolyards, and addressing environmental justice concerns
• Lead education and outreach efforts, curate educational materials, and provide training on food waste management, native plant cultivation, and waste reduction strategies
• Conduct focus groups and provide training and resources to support the Santa Clara County Youth Climate Initiative with policy and advocacy endeavors aimed at integrating climate change education into school curricula
• Track program data and analyze results to quantify climate impact

Minimum Program Eligibility Requirements

• Live in California by August 16, 2024
• Be at least 18 years of age by September 16, 2024
• Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent
• Must be a US Citizen, US National, or lawful US resident to participate

Desired Qualifications/Skills

Experience in Volunteer Engagement, Event Coordination, Community Outreach, Environmental Education, Field Experience, Project Management, Organic Waste/ Edible Food Recovery, Tree Planting/Care, Volunteer Management, Environmental Justice/ Equity, GIS / Mapping, Data/ Quantitative Analysis, and Marketing or Social Media. Other valuable contributions include:

• An interest in climate change mitigation, volunteerism, or public service
• Experience with outreach, education, training, or community behavior change
• Fundamental understanding of climate change science, environmental policies in California, and/or environmental priorities
• Excellent organizational, writing, interpersonal, and speaking skills

About Santa Clara County Office of Education

The Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) is a champion of public education, serving as an exemplary regional resource to students, parents, school districts, community agencies and businesses. Working collaboratively with school and community partners, SCCOE is a regional service agency that provides instructional, business, and technology services to the 31 school districts of Santa Clara County. They directly serve students through special education programs, alternative schools, Head Start and State Preschool programs, migrant education, and Opportunity Youth Academy.

——

Apply Today!

Applications are accepted May 1 - August 16, 2024, with priority consideration given to applicants who apply and undergo a CCAC info session before June 21, 2024. Interviews will take place May - August, with all positions filled by August 2024. This is a competitive program and interviews are not guaranteed. CCAC is an equal opportunity Fellowship with a preference for candidates already living in the communities they will serve. Applications are for the California Climate Action Corps Program in general, but applicants can select up to 3 preferred organizations and positions within the application.

Job Types: Full-time, Temporary

Pay: $3,055.00 per month

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Loan forgiveness
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person

Salary : $3,055 - $10,000