Environmental Stewardship Fellow

CALIFORNIA CLIMATE ACTION CORPS

Environmental Stewardship Fellow at Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians

Location: Willits, California

Number of Positions Available: 3

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, Monday - Friday, approximately 8:00AM - 5:00PM, 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 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.

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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.

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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.

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Program Benefits

Fellows will gain valuable hands-on experience in environmental restoration, community outreach, and sustainable land management. Opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and networking will be provided, along with a supportive, culturally-rich service environment. Fellows will also have the chance to learn from experienced Tribal leaders and environmental experts. 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

The Sherwood Valley Tribal Environmental Program is focused on restoring and protecting forest, meadow, and riparian ecosystems. By blending Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) with modern conservation practices, this project aims to enhance biodiversity, reduce wildfire risk, and promote sustainability. Key goals include forest thinning, prescribed burns, riparian restoration, and the implementation of a native plant nursery and a community composting program. Measurable outcomes include improved habitats for native species, increased carbon sequestration, and strong Community engagement in climate action. Fellows will play a pivotal role in hands-on restoration activities, volunteer engagement, and educational initiatives that contribute to these goals. Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Assist in implementing forest restoration activities, including thinning, prescribed burns, and riparian restoration to increase both diversity and wildfire resilience
• Coordinate and lead volunteer recruitment, training, and engagement for wildfire resilience and restoration projects and events
• Support the implementation of the Native Plant Nursery—including seed gathering, sorting, and planting—to promote native species restoration
• Support the Community Composting Program by assisting with composting operations, organic waste diversion, and tracking compost inputs and outputs
• Facilitate educational workshops and community events focused on environmental issues, climate resilience, and the integration of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) such as carbon sequestration in traditional and modern forest health treatments, native plants as environmental restoration allies, and the role of compost in the cycle of life
• Collaborate with Tribal staff and community members to plant, maintain, and donate trees, install drought-tolerant and fire-resilient native plants, divert organic waste from landfills through the composting program, and maintain forest units for wildfire resiliency
• 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, and experience in community outreach, composting, environmental education, native plant management, traditional ecological knowledge, tree planting/care, and volunteer management & engagement. 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 Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians

The Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians are committed to the protection and preservation of their ancestral homelands, which they have stewarded since time immemorial. The Tribe upholds its inherent rights to safeguard elements such as land, water, air, and traditional food sources. Governed by its Constitution and Tribal Council, Sherwood Valley established its Environmental Program in 1996, which has consistently monitored and conserved Tribal lands and waters through the EPA-GAP grant and other supporting grants. The Tribe is committed to cultural stewardship, environmental advocacy, and strategic partnerships to sustain natural resources for future generations. More info: www.sherwoodvalleybandofpomo.com

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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.