Sustainability Project Coordinator

The California Climate Action Corps (CCAC) is a pioneering statewide initiative dedicated to empowering emerging climate and environmental leaders through an immersive, workforce development program. With over 400 positions available for the 2026-27 Fellowship term, CCAC provides paid, full-time fellowship opportunities that blend hands-on experience with extensive professional development. This transformative program aims to bridge the gap between education and meaningful climate action, supporting fellows who seek to make a tangible impact on environmental resilience and sustainability in their communities. The program runs from September 21, 2026, to August 13, 2027, and demands a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, with occasional evenings and weekends to accommodate project needs. It excludes those enrolled in undergraduate courses during the fellowship term to ensure fellows can fully engage with the responsibilities and professional development opportunities offered.

One of the esteemed partners hosting CCAC Fellows is the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE), specifically within its Special Education Department. This department is a forward-thinking public agency committed to delivering equitable and high-quality educational programming to a diverse student population across 15 school sites within Santa Clara County. The Special Education Department supports 99 classrooms serving students with extensive support needs through inclusive, hands-on programs that prioritize accessibility and nature-based learning. The department’s Environmental Education Program is particularly geared towards integrating climate-centric sustainability initiatives that promote resilience, equity, and environmental stewardship among students with moderate-to-severe physical and cognitive disabilities.

The role of Sustainability Project Coordinator at SCCOE is a unique and fulfilling opportunity that places fellows at the heart of implementing climate action in education through two primary focus areas: Sustainable Organic Waste and Urban Greening. Coordinators lead vital projects across multiple school campuses, focusing either on composting, food recovery, and organic waste diversion systems, or on urban greening efforts such as garden expansion, tree planting, and the installation of green infrastructure designed to combat climate change impacts and enhance campus environments. These projects not only advance climate resilience but also prioritize inclusivity by adapting activities to engage students with diverse learning needs, particularly those with extensive support requirements.

Throughout the 11-month program, Sustainability Project Coordinators receive specialized training and continuous mentorship to build their expertise in engaging students from the Special Education Department and collaborating effectively with school leadership, educators, community partners such as UC Master Gardeners, and external stakeholders. This hands-on role includes community outreach and volunteer coordination, fostering partnerships with local high schools, universities, and Santa Clara County Parks to amplify environmental impact and volunteer involvement. Data tracking and impact analysis also form a crucial part of the role, helping to quantify the outcomes of sustainability initiatives and inform future activities.

Fellows receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes a $35,250 stipend distributed evenly across the term, an additional $10,000 in education awards upon completion, access to health and childcare assistance, professional development funds, loan forbearance, and more. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about climate action, environmental justice, community engagement, and education, especially those eager to support and advance inclusive sustainability in public education settings. The SCCOE fellowship represents not just a job, but a chance to drive meaningful change and cultivate skills that will benefit careers in the climate and environmental sectors while fostering a more sustainable future for all learners.