Sustainability Project Coordinator

CALIFORNIA CLIMATE ACTION CORPS

Sustainability Project Coordinator at Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation

Location: Carlsbad, 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 Monday - Friday, approximately 7:30am - 4pm, 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 4 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

Gain hands-on experience in GIS mapping, surveying, and data collection, while expanding your professional network through opportunities with over 20 organizations. Enjoy a hybrid schedule that offers the flexibility of 4 days onsite and 1 remote, providing both growth and professional/personal well-being. 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

The Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation (AHLF) seeks dedicated Sustainability Project Coordinators to lead community-focused environmental sustainability initiatives, focusing on urban greening, edible food recovery, waste diversion, and wildfire resiliency. Fellows will engage in hands-on fieldwork and educational outreach that connects local residents with nature, fosters stewardship, and supports the preservation of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon. Through a variety of projects and partnerships, Fellows will help guide volunteers and expand AHLF's efforts in habitat restoration, erosion control, wildfire risk reduction, and sustainability education, while contributing to the growth of AHLF’s vibrant environmental community. Duties include but are not limited to:

• Coordinate volunteer efforts for climate action projects and events—including recruitment, planning, logistics, and on-site support—to ensure safety and smooth operation during field days
• Lead habitat restoration activities—such as invasive species removal, native species planting, fuel reduction, and installation of erosion control structures using recycled materials
• Develop project plans and agendas for community events—providing hands-on support from setup to post-event breakdown
• Deliver educational programming, including weekly interpretative hikes, community outreach at tabling events, and training sessions focused on environmental stewardship and sustainability practices
• Foster volunteer engagement through recruitment, educational initiatives, and hands-on involvement, cultivating a growing, dedicated community of stewards committed to preserving the lagoon and surrounding habitats
• 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, Composting, Data/Quantitative Analysis, Environmental Education, Event Coordination & Planning, GIS / Mapping, Habitat Restoration, Landscape Management, Microsoft Office Suite and Teams, Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration, Native Plant Management, Project Management, Public Speaking/Facilitation, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, Volunteer Management & Engagement, the Ability to lift up to 30 lbs in Diverse Outdoor Conditions (rain, wind, heat, steep or uneven terrain), 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 Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation

The Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation’s (AHLF) mission is to energize people through education and outreach to preserve the Agua Hedionda Lagoon as an accessible and healthy watershed. Our Vision, to be stewards of the watershed as we inspire future generations, so we all have access to a healthy lagoon, a safe space in nature for all. AHLF serves as an educational community hub for visitors, volunteers, trail goers, nature lovers, and families. The Discovery Campus is open 7 days a week, free to the public, and provides educational exhibits and hands-on activities offering interaction with nature and the outdoors. More info: aguahedionda.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).