Urban Agriculture Fellow

Opportunity summary

Term length

09/16/2024 - 08/15/2025

Application window

05/01/2024 - 08/16/2024

Location

Santa Monica, California

Hourly pay equivalent

$19.76

Project summary

The California Climate Action Corps (CCAC) is part of a statewide initiative to address and mitigate the effects of climate change. CCAC matches Fellows with organizations to mobilize community members to take direct climate action through education, volunteer mobilization, and assessment focused on urban greening, organic waste diversion and edible food recovery, and wildfire resiliency. This is a climate-focused, workforce development program for emerging climate and environmental leaders.

Opportunity description

The City of Santa Monica Office of Sustainability and the Environment is seeking 2 enthusiastic Urban Agriculture Fellows to join our vibrant Sustainability and Environment team to spearhead community engagement efforts for our groundbreaking 19th Street Urban Farm and Wellness Garden project. As pioneers in creating zero-waste environments, Fellows will collaborate on initiatives ranging from coordinating with local schools to nurturing our burgeoning Community Compost Co-Op Program. With a focus on empowering underserved communities, Fellows will contribute to policy research, data collection on food production, and assisting in various climate action activities. This role offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of urban agriculture innovation while making a tangible impact on our city's sustainability journey. Duties include, but are not limited to: Spearhead the implementation of the 19th Street Urban Farm, coordinating all aspects from construction in Fall/Winter of 2024 to programming commencement in Spring/Summer 2025 Manage and maintain our Community Compost Co-Op Program, overseeing site operations, and providing training and guidance to residents, volunteers and local school programs. Collaborate with the Outreach and Education Committee to develop and execute engaging monthly programs, fostering community engagement and education. Lead the recruitment, training, and engagement of volunteers, ensuring a dedicated and enthusiastic team to support our urban agriculture initiatives.

Benefits

$33,600 stipend
$10,000 education award
340 hours of professional development
Minimum essential healthcare
Loan forbearance
Food and childcare assistance (for those eligible)

Requirements and qualifications

Requirements

Live in California by August 16, 2024. Must be age 18 or older by August 16, 2024. Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Must be a US Citizen, US National, or lawful US resident to participate.

Preferred qualifications

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.