The Harker School seeks a dynamic and highly organized Director of K–12 Volunteer Programs to build and lead a vibrant parent volunteer community that supports the life of the school. This role serves as the central connector between parents, faculty, and administration, creating meaningful opportunities for families to engage with the school while supporting classroom initiatives, student programs, and major school events.

The Director of K–12 Volunteer Programs will oversee the recruitment, training, and stewardship of volunteers across the lower, middle, and upper schools. Through thoughtful communication, relationship building, and program management, this individual will ensure that volunteers feel welcomed, valued, and effectively matched to opportunities that strengthen the school community. The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader with excellent organizational and communication skills who enjoys working closely with parents, teachers, and administrators to cultivate a strong culture of engagement and partnership.

The ideal candidate will bring:

• A bachelor’s degree and experience in volunteer coordination, community engagement, school administration, or event/program management.

• Exceptional organizational and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and events simultaneously.

• A natural ability to build trust and foster positive relationships with parents, faculty, staff, and volunteers.

• Experience recruiting, supporting, and stewarding volunteers in a collaborative environment.

• Strong technical skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with CRM or database systems such as Raiser’s Edge or Salesforce.

Additional Responsibilities

As a member of the Advancement Team, the Director will collaborate with colleagues to support the planning and execution of school events and initiatives.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required.

Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); CRM experience such as Raiser’s Edge or Salesforce preferred.

Strong ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Positive, energetic, and collaborative work style.

Ability to communicate clearly in person, by phone, and in writing.

Ability to assist with event setup and logistics, including lifting up to 20 pounds and moving event materials or equipment.

Ability to travel to offsite events and provide transportation as needed.

Immediate Priorities

During the first year, the Director will focus on:

Developing a deep understanding of The Harker School’s mission, culture, programs, traditions, and community.

Learning the school’s internal systems, databases, and operational procedures.

Building strong relationships with faculty, staff, volunteers, and supporters to enhance community engagement and support Advancement initiatives.

Event Planning

Plan and manage volunteer and school-related events throughout the year.

Coordinate all aspects of event planning including venue reservations, catering, décor, invitations, RSVPs, agendas, budgets, and logistics.

Provide event coordination support to ensure successful participation and engagement.

Volunteer Program Management

Assign volunteers to appropriate roles and responsibilities.

Monitor the effectiveness of the program through regular communication with teachers, administrators, and volunteers.

Maintain accurate volunteer records and track participation using The Raiser’s Edge database.

Recognize and steward volunteers through appreciation events and ongoing engagement.

Maintain awareness of parent perspectives and help connect families with appropriate school resources when needed.

Collaborate with the Director of Special Events to recruit volunteers for major school events such as the Gala and fall picnic.

Address and resolve volunteer-related concerns when they arise.

Volunteer Training

Develop and maintain job descriptions for volunteer positions.

Clearly communicate expectations for volunteer roles, including the Volunteer Bill of Rights.

Maintain and update the annual volunteer handbook outlining program objectives, policies, and opportunities.

Facilitate volunteer training sessions as needed.

Volunteer Recruitment

Develop an understanding of the school community to effectively match volunteers with opportunities.

Manage the volunteer sign-up and placement process.

Identify leadership potential among volunteers and recommend individuals for roles such as room parent coordinators and grade-level coordinators.

Collaborate with school administration when selecting volunteer leadership positions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The Director of K–12 Volunteer Programs manages and strengthens a vibrant volunteer program that encourages parents to be active participants in the life of the school. By engaging parents in meaningful ways, the program fosters a strong sense of connection and community within the school.

Liaison with Faculty and Administration

Serve as a liaison between lower, middle, and upper school faculty/administration and parent volunteers.

Understand the needs of teachers and administrators and align volunteers with appropriate roles.

Communicate clearly between volunteers and faculty in both written and verbal formats.

Organize and participate in meetings to ensure alignment and effective collaboration.

Our Mission:

Our mission is to educate students for success at college and beyond, and to foster kindness, respect and integrity within a safe and nurturing environment. We achieve academic excellence through the development of intellectual curiosity, personal accountability and love of learning. Our comprehensive program and exceptional faculty and staff help students discover, develop and enjoy their unique talents. We honor individuality, embrace diversity, and promote leadership and service, preparing students to take their place as global citizens.

Salary : $92,500 - $105,000