Restore wetland habitats, care for climate-ready trees, and renovate campus landscapes to better handle a warming climate as a fellow with the California Climate Action Corps at the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden. In addition to on the ground work, fellows will also undergo training, build networks and work under expert mentors.

• Fellows earn up to a $3,000 monthly stipend
• Fellows can be awarded up to $10,000 for further education
• The fellowship term is Sept. 16, 2024 to Aug. 14, 2025

About the California Climate Action Corps

Apply now for priority consideration

Job description

Duties & responsibilities

The Landscape Adaptation Fellow position at UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden offers a unique opportunity to foster climate resiliency in the campus landscape, benefiting both the university community and the broader region. Fellows will collaborate with expert staff to spearhead urban greening projects, including the establishment of native wetland vegetation, planting over 50 climate-ready trees, and renovating demonstration gardens in the 100+ acre UC Davis Arboretum for education and resilience. Through engaging volunteers and hosting educational workshops, Fellows will inspire action and build community resilience in the face of climate change. This role not only contributes to the creation of accessible green spaces but also serves as a beacon of environmental stewardship and climate adaptation for the entire region. Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Recruit, train, and coordinate student and community volunteers for urban greening projects
• Implement floodplain and riparian habitat restoration by propagating, planting, and providing establishment care for native wetland vegetation along the Arboretum Waterway 
• Cultivate, plant, and maintain climate-ready trees within the Arboretum and Public Gardenʼs landscape, using best practices in arboriculture
• Develop and share outreach materials on climate-ready gardening, tree selection, and habitat restoration at regional environmental events
• Enhance climate resilience of demonstration landscapes through strategic renovation, including plant selection, weed management, mulching, irrigation adjustments, and signage
• Track program data and analyze results to quantify climate impact

Benefits of service

The UC Davis Arboretum and Public Gardenʼs team culture is one of collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, making a dynamic and inspiring environment. Team members value open communication, mutual respect, continuous learning, and foster an inclusive and supportive atmosphere where everyone's contributions are recognized and celebrated. Career staff are enthusiastic mentors with deep expertise in sustainable horticulture, plant conservation, arboriculture, and habitat restoration as well as established networks in the regional environmental community. Other benefits include:

• Receive up to $33,000 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 170-340 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)

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications

• Live in California by August 16, 2024
• Must be age 18 or older by September 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

• Experience with outreach, education, training, or community behavior change
• Experience in event coordination, volunteer management, project management, public speaking/facilitation, marketing or social media.  
• Field Experience in tree planting/care, or GIS / Mapping
• Excellent organizational, writing, interpersonal, and speaking skills
• An interest in climate change mitigation, volunteerism, or public service
• Fundamental understanding of climate change science, environmental policies in California, and/or environmental priorities

Physical demands

• Comfortable in inclement weather—including hot, cold, rainy, and windy conditions
• Able to engage in repetitive tasks such as stooping, bending, and lifting.

About the California Climate Action Corps

Apply now for priority consideration