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Volunteer work organiser

Volunteer work organisers are responsible for the recruitment, training and management of voluntary workers.

Relevant work experience and voluntary sector knowledge is valued more than academic qualifications

Volunteer work organiser job description: Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills | Useful links | Find jobs and courses

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.

Paid vacancies attract strong competition - many people working in such positions begin as volunteers themselves.

Typical employers of volunteer work organisers

charities
local authorities
voluntary and non-profit making organisations
private trusts
foundations.

Opportunities are advertised by careers services, in newspapers, Community Care and specialist charity sector publications, Charity Times and Third Sector. Vacancies are also advertised by a number of specialist recruitment agencies including Charity People and Charity Action Recruitment. Many jobs are only advertised internally, so speculative applications are advisable, for which the Voluntary Agencies Directory and Charities Digest may be useful. Local charities and volunteer bureaux can often provide work experience placements.

Qualifications and training required

Any degree subject is acceptable, 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.