Volunteer coordination

What it involves

Volunteer coordinators are employed by charities, local authorities, voluntary and non-profit making organisations including private trusts and foundations. Key responsibilities of the job include:

• advertising volunteer opportunities;
• interviewing and selecting volunteers;
• providing or arranging appropriate training;
• co-ordinating and supporting the work of volunteers;
• organising/undertaking mail-shots and similar publicity tasks aimed at attracting new volunteers;
• managing budgets;
• helping with fund-raising activities;
• producing advertising/publicity materials;
• helping to increase the number of volunteer opportunities within the organisation.

What's required

A degree in any subject is acceptable for entry into the profession, although a business studies, management or social administration qualification may be helpful. Relevant work experience and voluntary sector knowledge is more valued than academic qualifications in this sought after area of employment. Considerable pre-entry (post-graduation) experience is almost always essential. Voluntary work experience gained during a year out, vacations or term-time may also be helpful.

Employers look for enthusiastic candidates with excellent interpersonal, time management and communication skills and good verbal and numerical abilities. Potential employees must also possess sensitivity, diplomacy and discretion and be capable of working well with others in an efficient, systematic and organised way.

Where to find out more

Paid vacancies attract strong competition - many people working in such positions begin as volunteers themselves. Opportunities are advertised by careers services, in local and national newspapers and magazines such as Community Care, Third Sector and The Big Issue. Specialist charity recruitment agencies may also have vacancies, although many jobs are only advertised internally so speculative applications are advisable. Local charities and volunteer bureaux can often provide work experience placements.