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 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 7:30AM - 4:00PM, 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 4 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.

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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

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 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 Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation (AHLF) seeks dedicated Sustainability Project Coordinators to lead community-focused environmental sustainability initiatives, focusing on urban greening, edible food recovery, organic waste diversion, and wildfire resilience. Fellows will engage in hands-on fieldwork and educational outreach that connect local residents with nature, foster stewardship, and support 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 and climate action events
• 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 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 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 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

Experience in community outreach, composting, data/quantitative analysis, environmental education, event coordination & planning, GIS/Mapping, habitat restoration, landscape management, Microsoft Office Suite & Teams, multi-stakeholder collaboration, native plant management, project management, public speaking/facilitation, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, and volunteer management & engagement, and the Ability to lift up to 30 lbs in Diverse Outdoor Conditions (rain, wind, heat, steep or uneven terrain). 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 DC open 7 days a week, freely to the public, provides educational exhibits and hands-on activities offering interaction with nature and the outdoors.

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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.