Wildfire Resilience Organizer

CALIFORNIA CLIMATE ACTION CORPS

Wildfire Resilience Organizer at California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Rancho Cordova)

Location: Rancho Cordova, California

Number of Positions Available: 3

Time Commitment: September 21, 2026 - August 13, 2027

This is a full-time, 11-month, 1700-hour program from September 21, 2026 - August 13, 2027. Fellows in this position commit to a 40-hour work week, Tuesday - Saturday, approximately 8:30AM - 4:30PM, with occasional evening and weekend commitments based on project needs. 170-340 of these hours are dedicated to professional development. 

**Please note: Due to the full-time commitment of the Fellowship, students enrolled in undergraduate courses between Sep 21, 2026 - Aug 13, 2027 will not be eligible to participate in the California Climate Action Corps Fellowship.

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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 2026-27 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—with 170-340 dedicated hours for professional development and training, providing 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.

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Applications are accepted May 1 - July 31, 2026, with priority consideration given to applicants who apply and undergo a CCAC info session before June 19.

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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 a $35,250 stipend (before taxes) distributed evenly over the 11-month service term
• Receive $10,000 in education awards (before taxes and upon completion of 1700 hours)
• Participation in 170-340 hours of training and professional development
• Receive $300 in professional development funds
• 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 on wildfire resilience
• 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 14, 2026
• Be at least 18 years of age by August 14, 2026
• 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, graphic design, habitat restoration, home hardening/defensible space, marketing & social media, Microsoft Office Suite & Teams, multi-stakeholder collaboration, native plant management, public speaking/facilitation, traditional ecological knowledge, and volunteer management & engagement. 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 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, 2026, with priority consideration given to applicants who apply and undergo a CCAC info session before June 19. Interviews will take place May-Aug, with all positions filled by September 4, 2026. 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. Applicants can select up to 5 preferred positions within the California Climate Action Corps Fellowship application.