Volunteer Programs Coordinator (Full-Time)

Fort Wayne Zoo•Fort Wayne, IN

16h•Onsite

About The Position

The Volunteer Programs Coordinator assists in overseeing and implementing teen volunteer, teen job shadow, teen internship, and other youth volunteer programs and supports the department. This position coordinates the daily operations of Zoo season teen volunteer programs and provides direct supervision of employees involved in these programs. This position also strives to embody the Zoo’s values at all times, contributes to positive guest experiences, and performs other duties as required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in education, management, or a closely related field is required.
Three years of experience working with volunteers in an informal learning environment or nonprofit organization is required.
Strong public speaking skills both one-on-one and in large groups.
Demonstrated ability to develop new programs.
Interest and expertise in wildlife, conservation, and sustainability.
Ability to professionally and effectively communicate with others through written correspondence.
Ability to troubleshoot, analyze situations, and make sound business decisions.
Ability to make independent decisions and manage time effectively.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office software.
Strong organizational skills.
Knowledge of general office procedures and practices.
Knowledge of correct grammar and sentence structure.
Ability to handle confidential information.
Ability to understand and follow all safety regulations.
Ability to track and manage multiple tasks and priorities.
Ability to arrive at work when scheduled and maintain a positive attendance record.
Ability to serve as a goodwill ambassador, in every respect and at all times, for the Fort Wayne Zoological Society and the Fort Wayne Zoo in contacts with guests, partners, and the community.
Ability to deal tactfully and politely with guest questions and misbehavior.
Excellent communication skills to establish and maintain effective working relationships with team members, volunteers, partners, and the community.
Ability to operate office equipment, including computers, copiers, fax machines, and phones.
Ability to professionally and appropriately interact and communicate with others, both in person and through phone, email, and written correspondence.
Ability to regularly travel assigned areas several times per day and efficiently enter all assigned areas.
Ability to negotiate a confined workspace while working with one or more coworkers.
Ability to read reports, receipts, and other statements; and ability to handle currency.
Ability to properly lift and carry items up to 25 pounds.
Ability to stand and sit for periods of time and to move intermittently throughout the workday.
Ability to perform focused work with close attention to detail.
Ability to work both indoors and outdoors, with exposure to extreme temperatures and inclement weather conditions; the environment may include wet, icy, or muddy conditions.
This position may include exposure to hazardous materials, fumes/odors, dirt, and dust; potentially dangerous or venomous animals; zoonotic diseases; noxious native plants; and native biting insects and arthropods.

Nice To Haves

Experience building professional relationships and working with Fort Wayne area or other community-based organizations is preferred.
Experience in educational facilities, cultural attractions, or zoological organizations is preferred.
Valid driver’s license is preferred.

Responsibilities

Coordinates schedules for ongrounds teen volunteer and teen education programs and ensures that all are staffed.
Evaluates and updates youth volunteer program curricula annually, creating new programs as appropriate and as directed by Volunteer Programs Manager.
Assists Volunteer Programs Manager in implementing volunteer programs, developing and updating training materials, and effectively delivering training to staff and volunteers.
Collaborates with Conservation Education team to plan teen programs.
Onboards Teens for Nature volunteers.
Collaborates across all departments, communicating clearly with operations and animal care staff as necessary.
Delivers engaging, educational, and inspiring programs to volunteers and other audiences both at the Zoo and offsite.
Utilize computer software to maintain volunteer records.
Welcomes and develops positive working relationships with all Zoo volunteers.
Provides support and assistance to the Volunteer Programs Manager and Zoo Volunteers.
Maintains and organizes program supplies and materials; assists in prepping and makes suggestions for ordering supplies as needed.
Assists with special events and supports the department as needed.
Assists in program schedules and coordinates cross departmental activities.
Maintains knowledge of Zoo facilities, programs, animals, and team members.
Serves as a team player in the Conservation Education Department by supporting the department’s goals.
Assists with Team Member Orientations, serving as a guide or subject matter expert as appropriate.
Supports the Zoo’s commitment to continued growth of diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and belonging for team members, volunteers, guests, and supporters.
Assists with special projects and helps other team members as needed.
Actively contributes to positive guest experiences.
Assists in determining staffing and volunteer needs; interviews, orients, and trains department team members and volunteers; provides feedback and coaching as appropriate.
Provides support and supervision to team members and volunteers.

Benefits

Health Insurance
Life Insurance
Long-Term Disability Insurance
403b Plan
403b Matching
Employee Assistance Program
Paid Days Off
Paid Holidays
Paid Health & Wellness Days
Paid Parental Leave
Dental Insurance (optional)
Vision Insurance (optional)
Pet Insurance Programs (optional)
Team Member Perks such as a free Staff Membership, concessions and retail discounts, development opportunities, and appreciation programs.