Volunteer Engagement Specialist

Coordinates all aspects of regularly occurring enrichment programming offered to NZCBI,including volunteer meetings, programs, gatherings, etc.

Assists the Manager of Volunteer Programs in planning and executing NZCBI-wide appreciation events.

Recruitment 

• Coordinates recruitment cycles for volunteers across NZCBI, including for recurring volunteers,such as NZCBI Help and Interpreters, and one-time Special Events volunteers.
• Participates in the development and execution of recruitment strategies to engage a diverse andinclusive volunteer applicant pool from which a quality volunteer force is chosen. Provides volunteers with an effective and responsive support staff to ensure an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
• Facilitates accessible and inclusive experiences for both volunteers and visitors to NZCBI and collaborates with teams across SI to further Diversity, Equity, Access, and Inclusion (DEAI)initiatives.

Training and Evaluation

• Conducts and assesses volunteer training using eLearning courses and onsite workshops. Develops volunteer interpreter training by creating online Moodle modules, in conjunction with other CLI staff.
• Leads in-person training and coaching of volunteers during the onboarding process and as needed, providing enriching tools and activities for engaging Zoo visitors and during education events. In coordination with other staff in CLI, develops and edits supplementary training materials.
• Offers and leads continuing and refresher training as appropriate. This may be offered to individual volunteer programs or NZCBI-wide depending on the determined need.
• Provides counseling guidance to volunteers and staff that work with volunteers. Conducts exitsurveys and interviews with volunteers leaving the program.
• Together with Manager of Volunteer Programs, evaluates all aspects of the volunteer program tonsure effectiveness and to recommend/implement changes as needed for all volunteers. Ensures that all training programs are delivered with attention to scientific accuracy and effective instructional techniques.

Liaison

• Participates in meetings and trainings with staff across NZCBI that work with volunteers to ensure understanding of policies and procedures, rights and expectations of volunteers, daily management and scheduling, metrics reporting, risk management, and conflict resolution.
• Works collaboratively with staff from around NZCBI to coordinate volunteers assigned to the different NZCBI centers to translate current scientific research, NZCBI collections, and NZCBI program initiatives into activities and training materials for volunteers to interpret to diverse audiences in informal settings.

OTHER SIGNIFICANT FACTS

• The incumbent must have no known allergy related to animals or plants which might interfere with the ability to work outside in the zoo or with animals.
• Work involving wildlife may require additional safety trainings, protective equipment, and occasionally additional vaccinations. 

Experience Required

• QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS Knowledge of the principles and methods of volunteer management and techniques for recruiting, training, counseling, and evaluating volunteers.
• Knowledge of digital platforms for distance learning, webcasting, and other digital outreach to create and online learning experiences utilizing technology best practices.
• Knowledge of computer database management systems for keeping volunteer records, hours, and assignment. Knowledge of accessibility issues related to physical, socio-economic, and cultural barriers to volunteerism and skill in facilitating accessible and inclusive experiences for volunteers and guests to NZCBI.
• Skill in coordinating programs necessary for the effective training and oversight of volunteers and the operation of volunteer services at NZCBI, including the use of computer networks and software.
• Skill in recruiting, interviewing, selecting, and planning a range of training opportunities for, andPD Version: v.1.0, 07/14/2023 Last Modified: v.1.0, 07/14/2023motivate a large and diverse group of, individuals to serve as volunteers using a range of techniques, technologies, and approaches. Skill in developing, conducting, and assessing volunteer training using a blended learning model comprised of eLearning courses and onsite workshops Skill in analyzing, interpreting, and implementing policies, procedures, and technical systems to effectively fulfill program responsibilities, including recruitment, onboarding, training, and record management.
• Skill in oral and written communication to collaborate with individuals at all levels, provide information, and serve as an interface between NZCBI visitors and stakeholders.

Salary

• $64,967 - $84,441 / year