Volunteers Services Assistant

Columbus Zoo Family of Parks•Powell, OH

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Lead the Zoo’s teen volunteer program and engage young volunteers in hands-on, mission-driven experiences across the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks. Bring our story to life through interpretive communication while supporting training, tours, and program operations.

Requirements

College degree in education, biology, environmental science, public relations or a related field preferred, or applicable paid experience required.
Knowledge of education program development preferred.
Knowledge of the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks, conservation, and environmental topics preferred.
Knowledge of and ability to comply with applicable laws, regulations, and organizational policies governing volunteer programs, including requirements for working with minors.
Proven ability to successfully work with teens, serving as a role model and mentor.
Ability to develop and maintain cooperative, constructive working relationships with others across the department and the organization to achieve shared objectives.
Ability to remain professional and composed in a variety of situations, including those that are fast-paced or stressful.
Attentively listens to and encourages the expression of a range of ideas and opinions.
Ability to communicate well both verbally and in writing to provide timely and helpful information to others across the organization.
Ability to solve problems and adapt quickly in a variety of situations.
Proficient in the use of relevant technology and systems, including volunteer and learning management platforms, and Microsoft Office.
Excellent organizational skills, time management skills, and attention to detail.
Ability to plan and organize work in a meaningful, efficient, and cost-effective manner.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Ability to provide excellent guest service by positively interacting with guests and upholding the Guest Service Standards.
Ability to adhere to standard operating procedures, including but not limited to safety protocols.
Ability to pass First Aid and CPR training biennially.
Ability to pass TB screen annually.
Ability to complete and pass an annual FBI/BCI background check.
Ability to adhere to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s drug-free workplace policy including but not limited to pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion and follow-up treatment.
Possession of a valid state issued driver’s license and a good driving record.

Responsibilities

Work with the Volunteer Services Manager in assisting with all aspects of teen volunteer program.
Supervise all teen volunteer activities, both on- and off-site, under the direction of the Volunteer Services Manager.
Organize and lead all training, scheduling and other activities for teen volunteers, both online and in-person.
Coordinate teen volunteer tasks and responsibilities with CZFP staff and respective departments.
Provide support as needed to all volunteer program teams, including adult and teen, and for training and activities.
Facilitate activities such as scheduling, recruitment/retention, and providing work direction for seasonal staff.
Coordinate on-grounds corporate volunteer groups.
Coordinate community volunteer opportunities.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Assist with teen volunteer recruitment, application, on-boarding, training and scheduling processes, in alignment with the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks’ commitment to mission and values.
Promotes engagement with and commitment to the organization’s mission and vision.
Maintain timely communication with applicants, volunteers, and parents through phone, email, the teen volunteer portal, and other communication methods as needed.
Provide feedback on teen volunteer performance and make recommendations to the Volunteer Services Manager and suggest ideas to improve the program.
Utilize the learning management system to design and implement training modules for the Visitor Education and Engagement Team.
Ensure programs and activities meet mission outcomes through the program design and evaluation process.
Keep and maintain accurate, confidential records on volunteers, including, but not limited to volunteer status hours volunteered, and other program-related statistics.
Constantly strives to further the mission of the organization and avidly supports the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks.
Implements sustainable practices in daily tasks whenever possible.