Volunteer Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this era of social responsibility, the role of a Volunteer Manager has never been more crucial.

As communities evolve and needs grow, the demand for skilled individuals who can coordinate, support, and inspire volunteers continues to escalate.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Volunteer Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply interested in the intricate dynamics of volunteer management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Volunteer Manager job description template, tailored for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Volunteer Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Volunteer Managers oversee all aspects of an organization’s volunteer program.

They recruit, train, and supervise volunteers, and serve as a go-between for volunteers and the organization’s leadership.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Recruiting, training, and managing volunteers
• Developing volunteer recruitment plans and strategies
• Coordinating volunteer schedules
• Designing and implementing volunteer programs
• Ensuring volunteers are assigned to roles that suit their skills and interests
• Establishing and enforcing volunteer policies and procedures
• Maintaining records of volunteer data and information
• Evaluating volunteer programs and making improvements as needed
• Communicating regularly with volunteers to ensure they are satisfied and well-prepared
• Organizing volunteer recognition programs and events
• Creating and managing the volunteer department budget
• Serving as a point of contact for all volunteer inquiries

 

Volunteer Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Volunteer Manager to oversee and enhance our volunteer programs.

The Volunteer Manager’s responsibilities include recruiting and training new volunteers, keeping a database of volunteer information and skills, matching volunteers to opportunities that suit their skills, and ensuring volunteers are satisfied and well-taken care of.

Our ideal candidate is someone with strong people skills, an organized approach, and a genuine appreciation for the value volunteers bring to an organization.

 

Responsibilities

• Recruiting, training, and supervising new volunteers.
• Collecting volunteer information, availability, and skills, and maintaining an up-to-date database.
• Using marketing tools such as outreach programs, e-mails, and volunteer databases.
• Keeping new and existing volunteers informed about the organization and volunteer opportunities.
• Matching volunteers to opportunities that suit their skill sets, and ensuring they understand their responsibilities and receive the proper training.
• Organizing and managing schedules and volunteer assignments.
• Monitoring, evaluating, and recording volunteer activities.
• Managing budgets and resources, including the reimbursement of expenses.
• Keeping volunteers informed about changes and developments within the organization.
• Showing appreciation for volunteers and organizing volunteer recognition events.
• Ensuring the organization’s purpose and benefits are conveyed to the public.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Volunteer Manager or similar role.
• Experience in volunteering locally and/or internationally.
• Experience in event planning.
• Working knowledge of databases and MS Office (especially Excel).
• Able to communicate effectively and build relationships with people of all backgrounds.
• Excellent organizational and team coordination skills.
• A genuine appreciation of volunteers and an understanding of their needs.
• BS degree in human resources, business administration or relevant field is a plus.

 

Benefits

• Flexible working hours
• Opportunity to work with a diverse and dedicated team
• Continuing education and professional development opportunities
• Health insurance
• Retirement plan

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Volunteer Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional travel for events and volunteer activities.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Executive Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Volunteer Manager Do?

A Volunteer Manager typically works for non-profit organizations, charities, and community groups.

They can also work in public sector organizations like schools and hospitals.

Their primary role is to oversee and manage the volunteers within the organization.

This involves recruitment, training, scheduling, and supervision of volunteers.

Volunteer Managers are responsible for matching the skills and interests of volunteers with the needs of the organization.

They ensure that each volunteer receives an appropriate induction and any necessary training, and they monitor the quality of the volunteer experience.

They also maintain records of volunteer information and assignments, as well as supervise, guide, and provide feedback to volunteers.

In addition to these tasks, Volunteer Managers often have a role in promoting the organization and its volunteer opportunities to the wider community.

They may also manage relationships with stakeholders, attend community events, and sometimes even fundraise.

Overall, a Volunteer Manager’s goal is to ensure that the volunteering efforts contribute effectively to the organization’s mission and objectives.

 

Volunteer Manager Qualifications and Skills

A competent Volunteer Manager should possess skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Exceptional interpersonal skills for building relationships with volunteers, staff, and community members
• Strong organizational and administrative skills to manage volunteer databases and scheduling
• Leadership and motivational skills to inspire and guide volunteers
• Effective communication skills to provide clear instructions and feedback to volunteers, as well as to articulate the organization’s mission and values
• Problem-solving skills to address issues that arise in the course of volunteer management
• Experience or willingness to learn about the specific cause or industry related to the volunteer work
• Customer service skills to ensure a positive experience for volunteers
• Ability to work independently, as well as part of a team, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Conflict resolution skills to mediate disputes or disagreements among volunteers
• Proficiency in volunteer management software and other relevant technologies

 

Volunteer Manager Experience Requirements

A Volunteer Manager typically has a background in human resources, project management, or a related field.

Experience in these areas helps a Volunteer Manager to effectively recruit, train, coordinate and oversee volunteers.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience in a role that involves coordinating people or managing projects, often through an internship or part-time role.

They may also have experience volunteering themselves which provides insight into the needs and motivations of volunteers.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience likely have a deeper understanding of the logistics of managing volunteers, such as planning and implementing volunteer programs and events.

They may have also gained skills in community outreach, public speaking, and conflict resolution.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in volunteer management often have demonstrated success in developing and implementing volunteer strategies, creating volunteer recognition programs, and managing large teams of volunteers.

They may be ready for a senior role or to lead the volunteer management team in a large organization.

Additional beneficial experience could include knowledge of nonprofit operations, fundraising, and grant writing, as well as skills in data management and analysis to track volunteer performance and program success.

 

Volunteer Manager Education and Training Requirements

A Volunteer Manager typically has a bachelor’s degree in human resource management, social work, business administration, or related fields.

They need a strong background in managing people and should be proficient with volunteer management software and relevant databases.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree, some organizations may require a master’s degree in nonprofit management, social work, or a related field, especially for those managing large numbers of volunteers or handling complex volunteering programs.

Volunteer Managers should also have strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, as they will be coordinating and overseeing multiple volunteers, often with diverse backgrounds and skill sets.

Certifications like the Certified in Volunteer Administration (CVA) can be beneficial, showcasing a candidate’s commitment to professional competency in mobilizing and managing volunteers.

Ongoing training in conflict resolution, project management, and diversity and inclusion is also beneficial for this role.

 

Volunteer Manager Salary Expectations

A Volunteer Manager earns an average salary of $51,648 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may fluctuate depending on the scope of the organization, geographical location, and years of experience in the field.

 

Volunteer Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Volunteer Manager need?

A Volunteer Manager needs strong leadership and interpersonal skills to guide and motivate volunteers.

They should possess excellent communication skills to relay information effectively.

Organizational and multitasking abilities are essential for managing multiple volunteers and projects simultaneously.

They also need problem-solving skills to handle any issues that may arise among the volunteer team.

 

Do Volunteer Managers need a degree?

Although a degree is not always required, a bachelor’s degree in human resources, social work, business administration, or related fields can be beneficial.

Some organizations may prefer candidates with a degree.

Additionally, experience in volunteer work or managing volunteers can be an advantage.

 

What should you look for in a Volunteer Manager resume?

In a Volunteer Manager’s resume, look for experience in managing and recruiting volunteers, as well as organizing and overseeing events or projects.

Skills such as leadership, communication, problem-solving, and organization should be evident.

They should also have knowledge of volunteer legal regulations and the ability to work with diverse groups.

 

What qualities make a good Volunteer Manager?

A good Volunteer Manager is empathetic and approachable, fostering a positive environment for volunteers.

They should be highly organized to handle multiple tasks and volunteers efficiently.

Effective communication and leadership skills are crucial for directing and motivating volunteers.

A good Volunteer Manager also exhibits adaptability to accommodate the needs of volunteers and the organization.

 

What is the role of a Volunteer Manager in a non-profit organization?

In a non-profit organization, a Volunteer Manager plays a crucial role in recruiting, training, and supervising volunteers.

They ensure the efficient operation of the volunteer program by coordinating tasks and scheduling volunteers.

They also develop and implement volunteer policies, facilitate volunteer recognition programs, and maintain volunteer records.

Their role is vital in fostering a supportive environment that encourages volunteer engagement and retention.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of what it means to be a volunteer manager.

And here’s a secret:

It’s not just about organizing volunteers.

It’s about creating meaningful change, one volunteer at a time.

With our comprehensive volunteer manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make your next step.

But why stop at the surface?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next stop for meticulously crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every volunteer is a part of the bigger mission.

Let’s make a difference. Together.

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