Volunteers Services Assistant

Ready to make an impact? Lead the Zoo’s teen volunteer program and engage young volunteers in hands-on, mission-driven experiences across the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks. Bring our story to life through interpretive communication while supporting training, tours, and program operations.

Program Coordination and Operations

• Work with the Volunteer Services Manager in assisting with all aspects of teen volunteer program.
• Supervise all teen volunteer activities, both on- and off-site, under the direction of the Volunteer Services Manager.
• Organize and lead all training, scheduling and other activities for teen volunteers, both online and in-person.
• Coordinate teen volunteer tasks and responsibilities with CZFP staff and respective departments.
• Provide support as needed to all volunteer program teams, including adult and teen, and for training and activities.
• Facilitate activities such as scheduling, recruitment/retention, and providing work direction for seasonal staff.
• Coordinate on-grounds corporate volunteer groups.
• Coordinate community volunteer opportunities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Volunteer Lifecycle and Engagement

• Assist with teen volunteer recruitment, application, on-boarding, training and scheduling processes, in alignment with the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks’ commitment to mission and values.
• Promotes engagement with and commitment to the organization’s mission and vision.
• Maintain timely communication with applicants, volunteers, and parents through phone, email, the teen volunteer portal, and other communication methods as needed.
• Provide feedback on teen volunteer performance and make recommendations to the Volunteer Services Manager and suggest ideas to improve the program.

Training, Learning, and Program Development

• Utilize the learning management system to design and implement training modules for the Visitor Education and Engagement Team
• Ensure programs and activities meet mission outcomes through the program design and evaluation process.

Records, Compliance, and Organizational Support

• Keep and maintain accurate, confidential records on volunteers, including, but not limited to volunteer status hours volunteered, and other program-related statistics.
• Constantly strives to further the mission of the organization and avidly supports the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks.
• Implements sustainable practices in daily tasks whenever possible.

Education, Knowledge, and Subject Matter Expertise

• College degree in education, biology, environmental science, public relations or a related field preferred, or applicable paid experience required.
• Knowledge of education program development preferred.
• Knowledge of the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks, conservation, and environmental topics preferred.
• Knowledge of and ability to comply with applicable laws, regulations, and organizational policies governing volunteer programs, including requirements for working with minors.

Interpersonal, Communication, and Professional Skills

• Proven ability to successfully work with teens, serving as a role model and mentor.
• Ability to develop and maintain cooperative, constructive working relationships with others across the department and the organization to achieve shared objectives.
• Ability to remain professional and composed in a variety of situations, including those that are fast-paced or stressful.
• Attentively listens to and encourages the expression of a range of ideas and opinions.
• Ability to communicate well both verbally and in writing to provide timely and helpful information to others across the organization.

Organization, Problem Solving, and Technical Skills

• Ability to solve problems and adapt quickly in a variety of situations.
• Proficient in the use of relevant technology and systems, including volunteer and learning management platforms, and Microsoft Office.
• Excellent organizational skills, time management skills, and attention to detail.
• Ability to plan and organize work in a meaningful, efficient, and cost-effective manner.

Operational, Compliance, and Work Requirements

• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to provide excellent guest service by positively interacting with guests and upholding the Guest Service Standards.
• Ability to adhere to standard operating procedures, including but not limited to safety protocols.
• Ability to pass First Aid and CPR training biennially.
• Ability to pass TB screen annually
• Ability to complete and pass an annual FBI/BCI background check
• Ability to adhere to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s drug-free workplace policy including but not limited to pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion and follow-up treatment.
• Possession of a valid state issued driver’s license and a good driving record.