Volunteer Program Coordinator - Full Time

Come join us at the Reid Park Zoological Society! We are seeking an experienced Volunteer Program Coordinator to join our team!

More than a job, it's a purpose! We are a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to create inspiring memories for all by connecting people and animals to ensure the protection of wild animals and wild places. We provide educational and fun experiences for visitors of all ages. Reid Park Zoo is the largest attended cultural attraction in Southern Arizona with approximately 600,000 visitors annually. Be a part of a vibrant, growing organization as Reid Park Zoo implements an exciting master plan, including “Pathway to Asia”, the zoo’s Asia-themed expansion expected to open in 2026 with additional zoo improvement projects and renovation to follow.

No phone calls or visits, please . This position is open until filled. We are an Equal Opportunities Employer. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff by creating an inclusive environment .

Pay Range : $20.00 to $23.50

Job Type: Non-Exempt / Hourly

Status: Full-Time

Benefits : This is a fully benefited position, including group medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; paid holiday, vacation, and sick time; retirement plan; zoo membership; employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement, and discounts on concession and gift shop purchases.

Overview: Provides programmatic and administrative support to Reid Park Zoo’s Volunteer Program. This position assists in recruiting, interviewing, training, scheduling, evaluating, retaining, recognizing and supervising Zoo volunteers and interns, in the areas and programs as assigned by the Volunteer Program Supervisor. The position helps to maintain the volunteer database and provide support for special event volunteer needs. The position requires working weekends, holidays, and some evenings.

Reports to: Volunteer Program Supervisor

Volunteer Management Responsibilities:

• Manages all aspects of assigned volunteer and intern programs, including applications, interviews, training, evaluations, budgets, etc.
• Provide support, mentoring, and supervision to new and current volunteers
• Supports the Volunteer Program Supervisor and works with other Zoo departments to fulfill volunteer needs
• Recruits and supports volunteer participation for special events
• Maintains communication with volunteers via phone calls, email, and additional methods
• Photograph volunteers and volunteer activities
• Designs and executes regular evaluations of volunteers
• Completes all trainings as required, including but not limited to job-specific training, safety, zoonotic disease, animal handling, DEAI training, safety drills, etc.

Volunteer Training Responsibilities:

• Develop new programs and volunteer position types and the associated training
• Acts as lead staff for Volunteer Programs as assigned by the Volunteer Program Supervisor
• Instruct and support volunteers and interns on the use of the CollaborNation, professional development website, and Better Impact, the volunteer management software
• Comfortable leading trainings such as animal information sessions, guest experience, guest service, interpretation techniques, conservation, and experienced in curriculum development

Administrative Responsibilities:

• Assist with the administration of the volunteer database, maintaining accurate records for all volunteers and interns and distributing regular reports to Zoo administration,
• Assists in conducting volunteer background checks at onboarding and biannually
• Assists with developing content and postings for the Volunteer and Zoo websites
• Completes administrative tasks for the Volunteer Program
• Manages the enrichment tree
• Maintains inventory of volunteer and intern uniforms and interpretive program supplies

Minimum Requirements

• Associate’s Degree in a relevant field (volunteer management, human resources, program management, non-profit management, education, animal science, zoology, related biological field, environmental education, etc.) and three years’ paid volunteer management experience OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
• Current (205-2026) COVID-19 Booster, and maintain current
• Pre-employment drug screen (we do not test for THC)
• Pre-employment background check
• Pre-employment TB test or evidence of a negative TB test result within the immediate past 12 months, and annual TB test required thereafter
• Valid, unrestricted driver's license
• Availability to work weekends and/or evenings
• Strong computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Windows programs and technology, such as tablets and POS systems
• Customer service, problem-solving , and time management skills required
• Ability to tactfully handle stressful situations, negotiate, resolve conflicts , and maintain confidentiality
• Ability to patiently deal with a variety of diverse personalities and volunteer or intern concerns
• Ability to work independently on multiple projects and remain focused in a busy, often noisy, environment
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain positive, respectful working relationships with all stakeholders

Preferred Qualifications, Skills & Abilities

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (volunteer management, human resources, non-profit management, program management, education, animal science, zoology, related biological field, environmental education, etc.) and one year of experience coordinating or supervising volunteers
• Additional years of volunteer management and support experience
• Experience with BetterImpact and volunteer systems
• Prior experience with Internship Programs strongly preferred
• Paid Zoo, aquarium, national park, or parks and rec experience
• Experience in an AZA Zoo or Aquarium facility strongly preferred
• Bilingual (Spanish / ASL)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds
• Required to stand, sit, and walk outdoors (in weather extremes) for extended periods of time.
• May spend extended time sitting using computers
• Required to bend, stoop, kneel, reach and lift frequently
• Leads groups over areas with uneven terrain

Please note that this document is not an exhaustive list. It is intended to give a reasonable idea of what might be required.

Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it is the policy of Reid Park Zoological Society to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the Human Resources Department.