How Do You Become a Volunteer Coordinator? A 4-Step Career Guide

Becoming a volunteer coordinator typically requires an undergraduate degree, relevant experience, and strong interpersonal skills, with multiple pathways available for entering this growing field. This role is critical for non-profits, focusing on the entire volunteer lifecycle—from recruitment and training to retention and management. Based on our assessment of industry standards, here’s what you need to know to start this career.

What is a Volunteer Coordinator and What Do They Do?

A volunteer coordinator is a human resources professional specializing in managing an organization's volunteer program. They are responsible for the candidate screening process, which involves interviewing potential volunteers, organizing orientation programs, and ensuring volunteers are properly trained and supported. Their primary goal is to optimize the volunteer experience to achieve organizational objectives, a key aspect of modern employer branding for non-profits. Effective coordinators are adept at talent assessment to match volunteers with suitable roles and use various strategies for talent retention.

How to Become a Volunteer Coordinator in 4 Steps?

1. Earn an Undergraduate Degree in a Related Field A bachelor's degree is a common foundation for this career. Relevant fields of study provide the necessary framework for understanding organizational dynamics and people management.

• Business and Management: Develops skills in coordination, finance, and leadership, which are directly applicable to managing volunteers and resources.
• Human Resource Management: Offers specialized knowledge in recruiting, interviewing, and training—directly translating to volunteer management.
• Social Work: Provides a deep understanding of community needs and how to support diverse populations, a valuable skill when working with volunteers in sensitive settings.

2. Consider a Postgraduate Degree for Competitive Edge While not always mandatory, a master's degree can be advantageous in specialized or highly competitive sectors. For example, a coordinator role in a museum might favor a candidate with a postgraduate qualification in art history. This advanced education demonstrates a deeper level of expertise and commitment.

3. Gain Practical Experience Through an Internship Hands-on experience is crucial. Completing an internship with a non-profit organization allows you to work directly with volunteers, manage schedules, and understand motivational strategies. This practical application is invaluable for developing a robust skill set and enhancing your resume.

4. Join a Professional Body for Networking and Development Affiliations with organizations like the Association of Volunteer Managers (AVM) enhance your professional credibility. These bodies offer access to resources, training discounts, and networking opportunities that can lead to career advancement and keep you updated on human resources trends.

What Are the Alternative Pathways to This Career?

For those seeking non-university routes, vocational qualifications provide a direct path. These include:

• NVQ Level 3 Certificate in Community Development and Leadership: Equips students with the skills to coordinate volunteers and community projects.
• ILM Level 3 Award/Certificate in Management of Volunteers: A recognized credential that focuses on communication, volunteer management, and creating a positive environment for volunteers.

What Can You Expect from the Role?

A volunteer coordinator's responsibilities are diverse and central to an organization's operations. Key expectations include:

• Ensuring Comprehensive Training: Developing and implementing training plans to equip volunteers with the necessary skills before they begin their roles.
• Overseeing Work Quality: Using structured interview techniques during onboarding and providing ongoing feedback to ensure volunteer work meets established standards.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Regularly working with various departments (e.g., catering, events) to ensure all components of a project or event are seamlessly integrated.

To build a successful career as a volunteer coordinator, focus on developing a mix of formal education, practical experience, and continuous professional development. The role's importance in recruitment process optimization and community engagement continues to grow, making it a rewarding path for those passionate about people management.