Conservation Specialist

CALIFORNIA CLIMATE ACTION CORPS

Conservation Specialist at San Diego County Parks

Location: San Diego, 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, with one position following a Monday–Friday schedule and 3 positions a Tuesday–Saturday schedule, approximately 8:30 AM–5:00 PM, 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

Gain hands-on experience in climate action while benefiting from mentorship by Parks & Rec staff and regional leaders. Professional development opportunities—including training through the National Association of Volunteer Program Leaders in Government and other industry-recognized organizations—will help build leadership skills and career readiness. Be a part of a collaborative and supportive team environment and contribute to meaningful, community-driven projects that make a lasting impact on San Diego’s parks and natural spaces. 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

Join the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) as a Conservation Specialist and play a vital role in advancing climate resilience and sustainability in our communities! Engage in impactful projects focused on urban greening, wildfire resiliency, and organic waste diversion. By planting trees, restoring native habitats, reducing wildfire risks, and promoting composting, Specialists will contribute to measurable greenhouse gas reduction, healthier ecosystems, and stronger, climate-conscious communities. You'll lead volunteer engagement efforts, coordinate community events, and deliver climate education to empower residents to take meaningful climate action. We'll provide hands-on training and professional development opportunities to build your leadership skills and prepare for a careers in environmental sustainability. This is a unique chance to make a lasting impact while gaining invaluable experience in climate action and community service. Duties include but are not limited to:

• Coordinate community volunteer events focused on tree planting, habitat restoration, invasive plant removal, and wildfire resiliency to drive measurable climate action
• Engage and recruit community members as volunteers for climate action initiatives and provide training to ensure successful participation
• Develop and deliver structured climate education programs on urban greening, wildfire prevention, and organic waste diversion
• Collaborate with DPR staff, community, and regional fellows to align projects with broader climate goals and ensure impactful, community-centered outcomes
• Drive community engagement by recruiting volunteers, leading outreach at events, distributing educational materials, and creating social media campaigns that advance climate action goals
• 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, Engaging with K-12 students, Environmental Education, Environmental Justice/Equity, 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, Tree Planting/Care, Volunteer Management & Engagement, the ability to operate 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 San Diego County Parks

The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) enhances quality of life by providing exceptional parks, programs, and experiences while championing environmental stewardship and sustainability. DPR hosts thousands of annual events, including festivals, educational activities, and volunteer opportunities focused on habitat restoration, tree planting, and climate action goals. Its award-winning system spans over 58,000 acres with 158 facilities, including parks, sports complexes, camping sites, and 389 miles of scenic trails. By preserving natural resources, promoting climate resilience, and engaging communities in environmental volunteerism, DPR invites everyone to discover the "upside of outside" in San Diego’s unique landscapes year-round. More info: sdparks.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).