Climate Action Lead

CALIFORNIA CLIMATE ACTION CORPS

Climate Action Lead at Sustainable Marin Schools

Location: Novato, California

Number of Positions Available: 4

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 8:30am - 5pm, with occasional evening and weekend commitments based on project needs. 175+ of these hours are dedicated to professional development. 

**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

At SMS, we foster an inclusive, innovative, and collaborative culture where Fellows grow as emerging sustainability leaders. Our team meets weekly to celebrate progress, tackle challenges, and co-create impactful solutions. Fellows receive personalized mentorship and the freedom to explore their unique interests. Along the way, they build a strong professional network by engaging with a dynamic group of stakeholders, including elected officials, zero waste programs, school district sustainability coordinators, local nonprofits, and environmental leaders. Other benefits include:

• Receive up to $35,000 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

Sustainable Marin Schools is transforming how Marin County K–12 public schools approach climate action—empowering students, educators, and communities to build a culture of sustainability from the ground up. Through key programs—Zero Waste, Environmental Literacy, and Urban Greening—we help schools reduce their environmental footprint while cultivating climate resilience and future environmental leaders. As a Climate Action Lead serving in the Novato Unified School District, you'll be at the forefront of this movement. Fellows have already diverted over 250,000 pounds of organic waste from landfills, trained thousands of students in composting and recycling, and expanded environmental education programs. For the 2025–2026 school year, we’re seeking passionate individuals ready to expand this impact. Inspire youth to take climate action by mentoring student leaders and integrating sustainability into daily school life. Be a catalyst for change where it matters most—on the frontlines of education and environmental stewardship. Join us in helping schools become models of climate action and resilience. Duties include but are not limited to:

• Spearhead a Zero Waste initiative at an elementary school, leading composting, recycling, and food waste diversion efforts while identifying opportunities to reduce GHG emissions and expand green infrastructure
• Advance environmental education by organizing hands-on learning opportunities, such as a Green Schools Science Fair, and delivering composting and recycling training to classrooms
• Coordinate campus greening and climate resilience projects, tracking measurable outcomes like native plants planted and students engaged
• Lead student, parent, teacher, and community volunteer initiatives that support schoolwide sustainability efforts
• 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, Edible Food Recovery, Engaging with K-12 students, Environmental Education, Environmental Justice/Equity, Event Coordination & Planning, Google Suite, Graphic Design, Habitat Restoration, Home Hardening/Defensible Space, Landscape Management, Marketing or Social Media, Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration, Native Plant Management, Project Management, Public Speaking/Facilitation, Tree Planting/Care, Volunteer Management & Engagement, the Ability to lift up to 30 lbs in Diverse Outdoor Conditions (rain, wind, heat, steep or uneven terrain), 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 Sustainable Marin Schools

Sustainable Marin Schools (SMS) is on a mission to ignite climate action and resilience in Marin County’s K-12 public schools. By weaving sustainability into the fabric of education—from students to the County Office of Education—SMS provides the tools, funding, and expertise needed to drive real change. Through hands-on programs like Organic Waste Diversion, Campus Greening, Environmental Literacy, and Energy Efficiency, SMS empowers schools to build a greener future. With people power and innovative support, we’re not just teaching sustainability—we’re making it a way of life for the next generation. More info: sustainablemarinschools.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).