Sustainability Coordinator

CALIFORNIA CLIMATE ACTION CORPS

Sustainability Coordinator at Cool OC

Location: Santa Ana, 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 - Saturday, approximately 8am - 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 2 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

Cool OC offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in climate action, community organizing, and environmental education. Coordinators will receive mentorship from sustainability leaders, network with community organizations and local policymakers, and develop valuable skills in volunteer management and public outreach. Be part of a collaborative and passionate team dedicated to creating lasting environmental and social impact in underserved communities. 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

Cool OC is expanding its pioneering community composting initiative and is looking for 2 inspired individuals to serve as Sustainability Coordinator in Santa Ana and surrounding communities. This effort builds on a successful pilot at Newsong Church, where coffee grounds are already being repurposed for gardens and public spaces. The goal is to grow a replicable model for composting and food waste diversion that supports underserved communities while building climate resilience. Fellows will play a vital role in leading hands-on education, engaging local residents and schools, and creating accessible pathways for sustainable living. In addition to advancing composting efforts at Newsong Church, Sustainability Coordinators may also support similar efforts in Fullerton, Buena Park, and Irvine, strengthening community roots across Orange County. Duties include but are not limited to:

• Lead a community composting program by coordinating food waste diversion at Newsong Church and partner gardens
• Recruit and manage volunteers to support composting, community gardening, and other sustainability efforts
• Maintain compost bins and demonstration sites, facilitating interactive opportunities for environmental education
• Host climate education workshops and outreach events that equip local residents with tools for long-term resilience
• 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, Edible Food Recovery, Engaging with K-12 students, Environmental Justice/Equity, Event Coordination & Planning, Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration, Native Plant Management, Project Management, Public Speaking/Facilitation, Volunteer Management & Engagement, the Ability to lift up to 30 lbs, and 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 Cool OC

Cool OC’s mission is to share time-critical information about climate change with Orange County residents and empower them to make planet-friendly choices while building climate resilience. We encourage individuals, businesses, and local governments to collaborate and reduce carbon emissions while addressing the escalating challenges of climate change. Our effort fosters inclusivity and advocates for disadvantaged communities disproportionately affected by climate-related impacts, like extreme heat. Together, we strive to create a sustainable, equitable future where every individual and neighborhood can thrive harmoniously with the environment. More info: cooloc.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).