Urban Green Leader

CALIFORNIA CLIMATE ACTION CORPS

Urban Green Leader at The Student Conservation Association

Location: Hayward, California

Number of Positions Available: 2

Time Commitment: September 21, 2026 - August 13, 2027

This is a full-time, 11-month, 1700-hour program from September 21, 2026 - August 13, 2027. Fellows in this position commit to a 40-hour work week, Tuesday - Saturday, approximately 8:30AM - 4:30PM, with occasional evening and weekend commitments based on project needs. 170-340 of these hours are dedicated to professional development.  This is a hyrbid position, onsite 3 days per week.

**Please note: Due to the full-time commitment of the Fellowship, students enrolled in undergraduate courses between Sep 21, 2026 - Aug 13, 2027 will not be eligible to participate in the California Climate Action Corps Fellowship.

——

About the California Climate Action Corps Fellowship

The California Climate Action Corps has over 400 positions available across California for the 2026-27 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—with 170-340 dedicated hours for professional development and training, providing hands-on experience in the climate field.

CCAC Fellows 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.

———

Applications are accepted May 1 - July 31, 2026, with priority consideration given to applicants who apply and undergo a CCAC info session before June 19.

———

Program Benefits

With over 100,000 SCA alumni nationwide, 70% are employed in or studying in conservation and stewardship fields. Fellows gain access to the SCA alumni network, participate in our annual career fair, and connect directly with professionals who often become key contacts for their next opportunity. As a result, thousands of SCA alumni have been hired by land and resource management agencies and non-profit organizations focusing on conservation, climate resiliency, and stewardship. Other benefits include:

• Receive a $35,250 stipend (before taxes) distributed evenly over the 11-month service term
• Receive $10,000 in education awards (before taxes and upon completion of 1700 hours)
• Participation in 170-340 hours of training and professional development
• Receive $300 in professional development funds
• Receive food assistance via CalFresh (for those eligible)
• Forbearance on existing qualifying student loans and interest payments accrued during the service term
• Minimum essential healthcare coverage
• Childcare assistance (for those eligible)

Description of Duties

In 2023, the Student Conservation Association (SCA) initiated the Bay Area Climate Resiliency Corps (BACRC) to extend its legacy of empowering youth in conservation service. Comprising youth teams, the BACRC focuses on climate resiliency projects in historically disadvantaged areas of the Bay Area. Urban Green Leaders will lead BACRC, recruiting and guiding youth teams, implementing climate projects, providing education, and organizing volunteer events. Throughout this impact, Fellows contribute to reducing urban heat islands, enhancing green spaces, fostering community resilience, and engaging youth in meaningful service and education opportunities. Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Recruit, train, and coordinate youth teams to implement climate resiliency projects—including tree planting, fire-prone invasive species removal, and schoolyard greening—in the Bay Area
• Design and deliver climate education programs to deepen understanding of personal and community climate resilience
• Organize and lead volunteer events at schools and within communities, engaging hundreds of volunteers in climate-related activities
• Collaborate with municipalities, land management agencies, and community stakeholders to identify and prioritize climate resiliency projects
• Manage project planning, partnership coordination, and risk assessment to ensure successful project completion
• Serve as a liaison between BACRC teams and SCA leadership, providing regular updates on project progress and outcomes
• Track program data and analyze results to quantify climate impact

Minimum Program Eligibility Requirements

• Live in California by August 14, 2026
• Be at least 18 years of age by August 14, 2026
• Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent
• Must be a US Citizen, US National, or lawful US resident to participate

Preferred Qualifications/Skills

Ability to lift up to 30 lbs in diverse outdoor conditions (rain, wind, heat, steep or uneven terrain), and experience in community outreach, composting, engaging with K-12 students, environmental education, environmental justice/equity, event coordination & planning, Google suite, graphic design, habitat restoration, landscape management, marketing & social media, Microsoft Office Suite & Teams, native plant management, project management, traditional ecological knowledge, tree planting/care, and volunteer management & engagement. Access to a reliable vehicle and must possess a valid driver's license. 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 The Student Conservation Association

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on conservation programs for youth and adults. Program participants protect and restore national parks, national forests, wildlife refuges, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks, community green spaces, and much more across the country. In the Bay Area, SCA's Urban Green program advances innovative climate solutions, prioritizes environmental stewardship and youth development, and leverages the strength of public-private partnerships. After graduating, SCA members emerge with increased environmental awareness, social responsibility, and leadership skills. More info: thesca.org

——

Apply Today!

Applications are accepted May 1 - July 31, 2026, with priority consideration given to applicants who apply and undergo a CCAC info session before June 19. Interviews will take place May-Aug, with all positions filled by September 4, 2026. 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. Applicants can select up to 5 preferred positions within the California Climate Action Corps Fellowship application.