What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manager of Volunteer Services position at Indianapolis Zoo?
Do you believe volunteers can change the world? Are you passionate about building meaningful relationships, developing people, and creating exceptional volunteer experiences? At the Indianapolis Zoo, our mission is to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. Every year, hundreds of dedicated volunteers donate thousands of hours to support that mission-and we're looking for an experienced leader to guide and grow this incredible program.
About the Role
The Manager of Volunteer Services leads all aspects of the Zoo's volunteer program, overseeing the recruitment, training, placement, recognition, and ongoing engagement of adult volunteers, Zoo Teens, volunteer groups, interns, and externs. This role partners with departments across the Zoo to ensure volunteers have meaningful opportunities while providing outstanding support for daily operations, conservation initiatives, guest experiences, and special events.
This is a full-time position that requires flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends to support volunteer activities, recruitment events, and major Zoo events throughout the year.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the recruitment, interviewing, onboarding, placement, and retention of volunteers across the organization.
- Develop and deliver volunteer orientation, training, recognition, and engagement programs that create an exceptional volunteer experience.
- Partner with Zoo departments to assess volunteer needs and ensure programs effectively support organizational goals.
- Manage volunteer coverage for signature events, including Zoobilation, Christmas at the Zoo, ZooBoo, XZOOberance, and other special events.
- Oversee internship and externship programs from recruitment through placement.
- Maintain volunteer records, program data, and reporting while managing the Volunteer Services budget.
- Supervise the Volunteer Program Assistant and provide leadership, coaching, and professional development.
- Ensure volunteer policies, procedures, and practices comply with organizational standards and applicable regulations.
What We're Looking For
- Three to five years of leadership or management experience, preferably in volunteer management, nonprofit organizations, guest services, education, or a related field.
- Demonstrated passion for volunteer engagement and creating meaningful experiences for diverse audiences.
- Strong leadership, relationship-building, and communication skills with the ability to inspire volunteers, staff, and community partners.
- Experience coordinating multiple projects, managing competing priorities, and maintaining accurate records.
- Comfortable presenting to groups, facilitating training sessions, and representing the organization professionally.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with volunteer management software or CRM systems is preferred.
- High School diploma required. Associate or bachelor's degree in business, communications, behavioral sciences, nonprofit management, or a related field is preferred.
Why Join Us?
Volunteers are essential to everything we do at the Indianapolis Zoo. From welcoming guests and supporting education programs to assisting conservation efforts and creating unforgettable special events, they help bring our mission to life every day. As the Manager of Volunteer Services, you'll have the opportunity to shape one of the Zoo's most impactful programs while helping volunteers make a lasting difference for wildlife, our guests, and our community.
Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test.