Aquarium Volunteer Programs Lead

State of North Carolina; North Carolina; On-site; USD 36,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher seeks a detail-oriented Volunteer Services Coordinator to lead and enhance our volunteer program. The role requires coordinating volunteers across Discovery Bay, Wilmington, and Fort Fisher operations, while supporting training, scheduling, and program development.

Reporting to the Education Curator, you will design training pathways, recruit and onboard volunteers, and collaborate with multiple departments to revamp the program for the renovated

Qualifications

• Experience running or managing a volunteer program in a zoo, aquarium, park, museum, or tourist attraction.
• Ability to develop and maintain a framework for volunteer training.
• Administrative experience with databases and various software.
• Experience supervising adults and youths; strong communication habits.

Responsibilities

• Design and maintain volunteer training pathways and checkpoints for roles such as Education, Husbandry, and more.
• Actively recruit volunteers, provide orientation, onboarding, scheduling, and track service.
• Evaluate and coach volunteers; organize professional development opportunities and recognition events.
• Support day-to-day volunteer operations including supplies, station rotations, and on-floor duties at exhibits.
• Collaborate with Education Department to support programs, outreach, and camps with volunteers.
• Coordinate with partner orgs to align volunteer service with objectives.
• Assist Teen Volunteer Coordinator with recruitment, screening, orientation, and supervision.
• Represent the Aquarium to professional networks and pursue ongoing professional development.

Skills

Volunteer program management

Recruitment & onboarding

Stakeholder communication

Event coordination

Education

Bachelor’s degree

High school diploma / GED

Job description

The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher seeks a detail-oriented Volunteer Services Coordinator to lead and enhance our volunteer program. The role requires coordinating volunteers across Discovery Bay, Wilmington, and Fort Fisher operations, while supporting training, scheduling, and program development.

Reporting to the Education Curator, you will design training pathways, recruit and onboard volunteers, and collaborate with multiple departments to revamp the program for the renovated