Wildfire Resilience Organizer

CALIFORNIA CLIMATE ACTION CORPS

Wildfire Resilience Organizer at California Department of Fish and Wildlife

Location: Rancho Cordova, California

Number of Positions Available: 3

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 Tuesday - Saturday, approximately 8:30am - 4:30pm, 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

CDFW is a launching pad for a career in conservation and climate action. As a Fellow, you'll gain invaluable experience in community engagement, climate communication, and habitat restoration, collaborating with seasoned professionals in the field. You'll build a diverse skill set while making tangible contributions to the resilience of California's ecosystems. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to network with experts in the industry, receive guidance from mentors, and forge connections that can shape your future career path in conservation and beyond. 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

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) seeks Climate Action Fellows to inspire and mobilize communities in the Sierra Nevada foothills to strengthen wildfire resilience. In collaboration with CDFW staff, Tribal leaders, and local partners, Fellows will engage high school students and their communities in climate education and hands-on stewardship activities. Through outreach, education, and volunteer mobilization, Fellows will bridge the connection between wildfire resilience, climate change, and biodiversity conservation—empowering the next generation of environmental stewards.. Join us in making a difference for California's wildlife and wild places. Duties include but are not limited to:

• Develop educational materials to help high school students understand climate-driven wildfire impacts and resilience strategies
• Co-create learning resources and community projects with guidance from Tribes, CDFW, CalFire, and other partners
• Lead interactive presentations and discussions in high schools and community centers
• Organize and promote wildfire resilience action days, engaging students and their families in hands-on restoration efforts
• Curate social media content to raise awareness of wildfire impacts on wildlife, climate change, and community-led solutions
• 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, Diverse Outdoor Conditions (rain, wind, heat, steep or uneven terrain), Engaging with K-12 students, Environmental Education, Environmental Justice/Equity, Event Coordination & Planning, Habitat Restoration, Home Hardening/Defensible Space, Marketing or Social Media, Microsoft Office Suite and Teams, Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration, Native Plant Management, Public Speaking/Facilitation, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, Tree Planting/Care, Volunteer Management & Engagement, the Ability to lift up to 30 lbs,, and Must possess a valid driver’s license. Fluency in Russian or 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 California Department of Fish and Wildlife

The mission of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife is to manage California's diverse fish, wildlife, and plant resources, and the habitats upon which they depend, for their ecological values and for their use and enjoyment by the public. The Interpretive Services Unit within CDFW serves as a bridge connecting diverse communities with the natural world by facilitating meaningful, educational, and inspiring experiences in support of CDFW's vision and values. More info: wildlife.ca.gov

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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).