Climate Action Coordinator

California Climate Action Corps Fellowship at California State University, Bakersfield is a comprehensive, full-time climate-focused workforce development program. This program offers emerging climate and environmental leaders the chance to gain hands-on experience by engaging with communities in meaningful climate action projects spread across California. For the 2026-27 term, the fellowship entails an 11-month commitment from September 21, 2026, through August 13, 2027, requiring fellows to dedicate approximately 40 hours a week, Monday through Friday, with occasional evening or weekend responsibilities depending on project demands. Fellows gain involvement in diverse initiatives such as wildfire resiliency, urban greening, and organic waste diversion.

The Climate Action Coordinator role at California State University, Bakersfield, is part of this distinguished fellowship, focused on advancing climate action and food security through innovative projects at the CSUB Food Pantry and Edible Garden. Coordinators will spearhead efforts around organic waste reduction, edible food recovery, composting, and urban greening by mobilizing and managing volunteers. The role holds particular emphasis on community resilience, promoting food security for vulnerable populations by redistributing surplus edible food and expanding climate-resilient green spaces via native and drought-tolerant plantings.

This position provides fellows with the chance to acquire vital skills in community engagement, environmental education, and project leadership while supporting an applied learning environment committed to climate stewardship and sustainability goals in Kern County. The fellowship includes professional development comprising 170 to 340 hours of training, mentoring, and networking opportunities. A stipend of $35,250 (before taxes) is distributed evenly over the fellowship period, accompanied by a $10,000 education award for completing the full 1700 hours. Additional benefits include healthcare coverage, childcare assistance, CalFresh food aid for eligible participants, and loan forbearance for qualifying student loans.

Coordinators will be responsible for recruiting and leading volunteers in efforts such as composting, food surplus recovery from grocery stores and farmers' markets, and the expansion of a one-acre edible garden. While engaging in hands-on climate action projects, fellows will also facilitate educational sessions on topics including soil health, irrigation practices, urban heat mitigation, and climate change adaptation. The fellowship fosters a collaborative and mission-driven environment, providing an ideal platform for individuals eager to contribute to soil health, waste diversion, and urban greening initiatives that can directly affect climate resilience and community well-being.

CSUB's Center for Accessibility and Essential Needs hosts this fellowship and is dedicated to advancing student well-being and sustainability by addressing basic needs, notably food security, and providing climate-positive educational opportunities. Through programs like the CSUB Food Pantry and Edible Garden, the center acts as a community hub supporting food redistribution, local partnerships, and sustainable food production.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications between May 1 and July 31, 2026, with priority given to those who participate in an informational session by June 19, 2026. Interviews occur from May through August, and the program adheres to an equal opportunity policy emphasizing preference for candidates residing in communities served by the fellowship. This is a competitive role aimed at candidates passionate about climate change mitigation, environmental justice, and public service. The position offers a substantial opportunity to gain valuable professional experience in the climate sector while making a tangible difference in Kern County's environmental and social landscape.