Urban Conservation Fellow

CALIFORNIA CLIMATE ACTION CORPS

Urban Conservation Fellow at Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy

Location: Altadena, California

Number of Positions Available: 2

Time Commitment: September 15, 2025 - August 14, 2026

This is a full-time, 11-month, 1700-hour program from September 15, 2025 - August 14, 2026. Fellows commit to a 40-hour work week, typically Tuesday - Saturday, approximately 8:30am - 5pm, with occasional evening and weekend commitments based on project needs. 175+ of these hours are dedicated to professional development.  This is a hybrid position, onsite 3 days per week.

**Please note: Due to the full-time commitment of the Program, students enrolled in undergraduate courses between Sep 15, 2025 - Aug 14, 2026 will not be eligible to participate in the California Climate Action Corps Program.

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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 2025-26 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 over 175 dedicated hours for professional development and training while receiving 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 and edible food recovery.

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Applications are accepted May 1 - July  31, 2025, with priority consideration given to applicants who apply and undergo a CCAC info session before June 20, 2025.

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Program Benefits

As a rapidly growing organization, we offer abundant opportunities to gain hands-on experience across all facets of conservation. From land acquisition and wildlife camera research to land management and grant writing, you will collaborate with a team of expert advisors who are leaders in the field of local conservation. Other benefits include:

• Receive up to $33,600 stipend (before taxes) distributed evenly over the 11-month service term
• Earn up to $10,000 in education awards (before taxes and upon completion of 1700 hours)
• Participation in 175+ hours of training and professional development
• 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

Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy’s Hahamongna to Tujunga Wildlife Corridor Project integrates land acquisition, community-driven land stewardship, and climate education and advocacy to create vital pathways for wildlife movement between the San Rafael Hills, Verdugo Mountains, Griffith Park, and ultimately, the San Gabriel Mountains. This corridor network supports genetic diversity among wildlife populations and facilitates the natural dispersal of plant species in response to climate change. Beyond ecological benefits, the project fosters connections among communities, empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully to biodiversity conservation. As part of our dynamic team, the Urban Conservation Fellows have the opportunity to become leaders in protecting our local lands. They will build professional skills in youth education, land management, and community outreach, and be connected to a wide network of professionals within conservation. AFC staff and advisors offer mentorship across a wide range of career paths, equipping Fellows with the skills and connections to advance their professional goals. Duties include but are not limited to:

• Lead 10+ field trips per month for groups of 40+ K-12 students on tours about Southern California Ecosystems including native plants, geology, and avifauna while supervising field trip docent leaders
• Coordinate weekly restoration events with groups of 20+ volunteers and educate on proper land management practices including invasive plant removal, native plantings, trail maintenance, mulching, watering, etc.
• Educate community members about biodiversity, urban conservation, and the need for climate action at outreach events
• Develop effective communication strategies to recruit, educate, and engage volunteers
• Engage communities in wildlife research and stewardship strategies to inspire and equip others as wildlife spotters and conservation champions
• Track program data and analyze results to quantify climate impact

Minimum Program Eligibility Requirements

• Live in California by August 15, 2025
• Be at least 18 years of age by August 15, 2025
• Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent
• Must be a US Citizen, US National, or lawful US resident to participate

Preferred Qualifications/Skills

Experience in Community Outreach, Diverse Outdoor Conditions (rain, wind, heat, steep or uneven terrain), Engaging with K-12 students, Environmental Education, Event Coordination & Planning, GIS / Mapping, Google Suite, Habitat Restoration, Landscape Management, Native Plant Management, Public Speaking/Facilitation, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, Volunteer Management & Engagement, the Ability to lift up to 30 lbs, Access to a reliable vehicle, and Must possess a valid driver's license. Fluency in Spanish is a plus. 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 Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy

Formed in 2000, Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy is dedicated to identifying, conserving, enhancing, and stewarding critical natural habitats and wildlife corridors across the San Rafael Hills, Verdugo Mountains, and the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains between Tujunga Wash and Altadena, connecting them to the Santa Monica Mountains at Griffith Park. Through collaboration with diverse communities, the organization aims to restore biodiversity, create safe pathways for wildlife, and inspire Angelenos to become environmental stewards across the region. More info: arroyosfoothills.org

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Apply Today!

Applications are accepted May 1 - July 31, 2025, with priority consideration given to applicants who apply and undergo a CCAC info session before June 20, 2025. Interviews will take place May - August, with all positions filled by September 2025. 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 5 preferred organizations and positions within the application.

*Program structure, fellow benefits, and final participation are subject to approved grant award(s).