Volunteer Engagement Coordinator

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Since opening in 1992, OCAq has been a premier attraction on Oregon’s central coast and an enduring advocate for the health of our ocean. This 501(c)3 non-profit organization has supported marine wildlife and fostered environmental stewardship through its education programs, community partnerships, and rehabilitation efforts. The Oregon Coast Aquarium is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 aquariums in the U.S., providing visitors with opportunities to connect with 300 different species.

This full time, permanent position offers competitive benefits including medical, dental, and vision. The Aquarium additionally offers a 403b matching retirement account, 16 vacation days, 9 holidays, paid sick time, and an Employee Assistance Program.

This position is non-exempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT & ONBOARDING:

In partnership with the Manager:

Recruit volunteers through proactive community outreach, job fairs, and local partnerships.

Maintain current volunteer position descriptions and program needs for guest concierge, interpretation, and horticulture volunteers.

Conduct applicant screening and interviews for guest concierge, interpretation, and horticulture volunteers.

Coordinate and lead volunteer information sessions and new volunteer training classes.

Ensure that volunteers are managed in a manner consistent with the Aquarium’s values and policies, collaborating closely with the Volunteer Engagement Manager in this capacity. Support the Aquarium’s growth by incorporating equitable practices in our volunteer program.

TRAINING, SUPPORT & SUPERVISION:

In partnership with the Manager:

Provide ongoing support to volunteers and serve as a point of contact for questions and concerns and address any needs.

Design, deliver, and coordinate new volunteer training, continuing education, and volunteer enrichment sessions in partnership with staff across departments.

Promote a safe work environment by enforcing aquarium policies and safety procedures.

Attend interpretive and dive team pre-shift check-ins, and regularly visit husbandry, clerical, and horticulture volunteers to provide direct staff presence and support, provide information, and answer questions.

SCHEDULING & COMMUNICATION

Provide exceptional and timely service to volunteers and staff in person, by phone, and by email; respond to inquiries and requests from the public, volunteers, staff, and community partners.

Proactively manage the daily schedules for guest-facing volunteer roles, ensuring proper coverage for exhibits such as the Aviary and Touch Pool, and addressing volunteer attendance concerns.

Collaborate with the manager to deliver engaging, effective, and accurate communications to all volunteers through email, newsletters, digital platforms, and in-person check-ins.

Track volunteer hours and maintain accurate records using Volgistics (volunteer management software) confidentially.

PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION & EVALUATION

Complete and/or coordinate the volunteer program administrative tasks, including data entry, years/hours of service recognition, paperwork renewals, digital filing, background checks, and more.

Support the development of new volunteer roles and program improvements.

Maintain the biofact cart collection for interpretive use and proactively work with adult interpretation volunteers to train and…