Animal Volunteer Specialist

Alachua County•Gainesville, FL

14h•Onsite

About The Position

This is responsible professional work coordinating, designing, planning, and implementing the animal volunteer program in the Alachua County Animal Resources & Care Department. An employee assigned to this classification is responsible for the recruitment, training, scheduling, supervision, and retention of volunteers who support animal care, outreach, and organizational operations. This role ensures a safe, effective, and mission-aligned volunteer program that enhances animal welfare outcomes and community engagement. Work is performed under the direction of a higher-level supervisor and is reviewed through conferences, reports, and observation of results obtained.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in nonprofit management, business administration, social sciences, or a related field, and one year of experience in volunteer coordination or program management; or any equivalent combination of related training and experience.
Applicants within six months of meeting the education and experience requirements may be considered for trainee status.
A Valid Florida Driver License is required and a Motor Vehicle Record that meets the requirements of Alachua County policy #6-7; Motor Vehicle Records will be reviewed prior to employment.
If, in the past 24-month period, the applicants Motor Vehicle Record has more than three (3) moving traffic infractions or three (3) or more at-fault motor vehicle accidents (or combination of both and /or a conviction/pending charge for driving under the influence) or is in violation of any standard mandated by Federal or State Law or Regulation, the minimum qualifications are not met for the position.
Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen and successful completion of all applicable background checks pre-hire and ongoing are required.
Demonstrated knowledge of humane animal care and handling principles.
Strong interpersonal, organizational, and conflict-resolution skills.
Skills in volunteer management systems and standard office software.
Skills in time management and work organization.
Ability to effectively utilize social media and community outreach as strategic tools to expand the volunteer network.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.
Ability to work in animal care environments (e.g., shelters, clinics, outdoor settings).
Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with co-workers, volunteers, animal welfare groups, and other partners, elected officials, and the general public.
Ability to work independently and/or as part of a team to solve problems and make sound decisions based upon available information.
Ability to follow through on assigned tasks while maintaining attention to detail, patience, and professionalism.
Ability to coordinate and prepare reports, general audience presentations, and campaigns.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Nice To Haves

High School diploma or equivalent and three years of experience in volunteer coordination or program management.
Experience with volunteer management software or volunteer databases.
Experience with social media platforms.

Responsibilities

Designs, implements, and continuously improves the volunteer program in alignment with organizational goals.
Develops volunteer roles/descriptions, and workflows that support animal care, enrichment, adoption, foster, transport, and administrative functions.
Maintains accurate volunteer records, hours tracking, and compliance documentation.
Plans and executes volunteer recruitment strategies, including outreach events, partnerships, social media, and digital campaigns.
Screens volunteer applicants, conducts orientations, and coordinates background checks as required.
Matches volunteers to roles based on skills, interests, availability, and organizational needs.
Develops and delivers training curricula covering animal handling, safety protocols, humane practices, and organizational policies.
Coordinates role-specific training.
Ensures volunteers meet competency standards before independent service.
Schedules volunteers and ensures adequate coverage for programs and events.
Provides ongoing supervision, coaching, and performance feedback.
Fosters a positive, and respectful volunteer culture that promotes retention.
Enforces animal welfare standards, biosecurity, and workplace safety policies.
Collaborates with animal care staff to ensure volunteers support best-practice humane outcomes.
Addresses incidents, injuries, or policy violations promptly and professionally.
Develops volunteer recognition initiatives and appreciation events.
Monitors satisfaction and retention metrics; implements improvements based on feedback.
Supports volunteer roles and committees as appropriate.
Partners with program staff, development, and communications teams to support events and campaigns.
Prepares reports on volunteer engagement, hours, and impact.
Assists with budget planning related to volunteer programs and supplies.
Drives a County vehicle and/or personal vehicle to work sites in order to perform required duties.
Performs the duties listed, as well as those assigned, with professionalism and a sense of urgency.