Volunteer Specialist

SUMMARY
The Volunteer Specialist is responsible for the comprehensive development, implementation, and management of volunteer, intern, and alumni engagement initiatives across Richmond Public Schools. This role oversees all aspects of volunteer programming, including recruitment, screening, placement, training, compliance, and recognition. The Specialist collaborates with school leaders and central office departments to align engagement efforts with Division priorities and student needs.
In addition, this position manages internship programming by coordinating placements, support supervisors, and ensuring compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements. Leading outreach and communication efforts, the Volunteer Specialist is central to building strong, sustainable relationships where volunteers, interns, alumni, and the broader community are equipped to make meaningful contributions to RPS.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Coordinates all aspects of volunteer programming within RPS, including recruitment, screening, placement, training, and recognition of volunteers.
• Develops and implements strategies to actively engage alumni as volunteers, mentors, and advocates in support of RPS schools and initiatives.
• Serves as the primary point of contact for school-based volunteer coordinators and community partners to ensure alignment with division goals, policies, and procedures.
• Develops and maintains systems for tracking, documenting, and ensuring compliance with division safety and legal requirements for all volunteers.
• Leads the design and delivery of volunteer orientation, training, and professional development opportunities.
• Collaborates with school leaders and central office departments to identify volunteer needs and align opportunities with school improvement priorities.
• Produces collaboration and outreach materials related to volunteer engagement, including newsletters, digital content, and event materials.
• Coordinates division-wide recognition initiatives to highlight the contributions of volunteers.
• Develops and maintains partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, alumni organizations, and civic associations to expand volunteer involvement.
• Cultivates and maintains relationships with RPS alumni by coordinating outreach, communications, and engagement opportunities, including events, networking, and recognition efforts.
• Ensures all volunteer-related materials and communications are inclusive, accessible, and available in multiple languages in collaboration with Language Support Services.
• Coordinates the intake, documentation, and organization of donated school supplies and other resources, ensuring accurate tracking, recognition, and timely distribution to schools and staff.
• Collaborates with school teams and community partners to assess needs, deliver materials, and maintain efficient systems for managing donated resources.
• Represents the Engagement Office at community and school events to promote volunteerism and family engagement.
• Coordinates the recruitment, placement, and onboarding of interns within RPS in collaboration with the Talent Office.
• Support site supervisors by providing training, resources, and guidance to help them effectively mentor interns.
• Maintain accurate records of placements, attendance, evaluations, and compliance with federal or institutional work-study guidelines.
• Develop and implement professional development opportunities for interns (e.g., workshops on communication, résumé writing, or workplace etiquette).
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in education, public administration, public relations, nonprofit management, or related field required.
• Two (2) of experience in volunteer management, community engagement, or related field.
• Experience working in racially, ethnically, and socioeconomically diverse urban communities preferred.
• Candidates who are alumni of RPS are especially encouraged to apply, as lived experience within the division is highly valued.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS

• Valid Virginia driver's license and willingness to use personal automobile. 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Availability to participate in evening and weekend events.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the Richmond, Virginia community, including its neighborhoods, organizations, and local resources is strongly preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-responsibility environment.
• Frequent collaboration and relationship building across internal teams and with external agencies.
• Project management skills with attention to detail and adherence to timelines.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Ability to analyze and use data to drive decision-making and improve outcomes.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, including coaching and performance management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Ability to build and sustain effective relationships with students, families, staff, and community partners.
• Demonstrated cultural competency and ability to support diverse student and family populations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data tracking systems.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Light Work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Work involves frequent sitting and standing, as well as extended periods of time using a computer, camera, or mobile device. The employee frequently communicates with internal and external audiences, requiring strong verbal and auditory abilities. Occasional walking, reaching, bending, or stooping may be required during event setup and community engagements. Visual acuity is required for reading, preparing documents, viewing a computer screen, and performing administrative functions with accuracy and attention to detail.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed in both office and field environments across school and community locations. The position may require travel between sites and work during evenings and weekends. The work is detail-oriented and deadline-driven, often involving multiple priorities and frequent interactions with staff, students, families, and community partners. Tasks are performed in both climate-controlled spaces and outdoor or event settings.

HOW TO APPLY: All applicants (including RPS employees) must submit an online application. Please access website at: www.rvaschools.net/careers

Please upload the following information with your application: a current resume, transcript and license if applicable.  Three references names and contact information will be required if you progress to the interview step of the selection process.  Richmond Public Schools will conduct a background investigation, fingerprinting, and tuberculosis screening as a condition of employment. EOE.

START DATE: Based on School Board approval 

Salary : $71,756 - $110,353