Volunteer Coordinator - 40hrs./wk.

Kent District Library; Michigan; On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Kent District Library in Michigan is seeking a Volunteer Coordinator who will recruit, support, and manage volunteers to advance the library’s programs and community partnerships. Under the Community Engagement Manager, you will build relationships with organizations to expand engagement and services.

Responsibilities include coordinating onboarding, maintaining records, administering volunteer software, preparing reports, and recognizing volunteers.

Qualifications

• Master's in library science or related field required; or bachelor's degree plus 5 years relevant experience.
• Two to four years of volunteer coordination experience; supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.

Responsibilities

• Recruit and engage a diverse volunteer workforce through partnerships to support opportunities.
• Coordinate promotion of volunteer opportunities with KDL departments.
• Maintain volunteer records, databases, and online applications.
• Administer volunteer management software and support staff, volunteers, and Friends.
• Coordinate onboarding, including orientation and training.
• Provide ongoing guidance and communication to volunteers and staff.
• Schedule and coordinate volunteer opportunities and assignments.
• Prepare correspondence, reports, and meeting materials related to volunteer programs.
• Compile, analyze, and present volunteer statistics and activity reports.
• Collaborate with partners to plan volunteer recognition programs and events.
• Monitor activities and ensure quality service.
• Support Friends groups.
• Maintain the Bookmobile collection and assist patrons.
• Become part of committees as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Customer service

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Microsoft Office

Volunteer management software

Database / library software

Independent work

Confidentiality

Education

Master's in Library Science

Bachelor's degree + 5 years experience

High school diploma + 10 years experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Volunteer management software

Library databases

Job description

Under the general supervision of the Community Engagement Manager, recruits, coordinates, and supports volunteers to advance the Library’s volunteer program. Builds relationships with individuals and organizations to promote library services, strengthen community partnerships, and expand volunteer engagement opportunities.

• Recruit and engage a diverse volunteer workforce through partnerships with community organizations to support volunteer opportunities and community informational and literacy needs.
• Coordinate the promotion of volunteer opportunities with appropriate KDL departments and staff.
• Maintain volunteer records, databases, and online application systems; collect and manage information regarding volunteer availability, skills, and assignments.
• Administer volunteer management software and provide support to staff, volunteers, and Friends members.
• Coordinate volunteer onboarding, including orientation, training, and related materials.
• Provide ongoing support, guidance, and communication to volunteers and staff to ensure positive and effective volunteer experience.
• Schedule and coordinate volunteer opportunities and assignments.
• Develop, prepare, and distribute correspondence, reports, meeting materials, and other communications related to volunteer programs.
• Compile, analyze, and present volunteer program statistics and activity reports using appropriate reporting and data visualization tools.
• Collaborate with the Community Engagement Manager and partner organizations to plan and implement volunteer recognition programs and special events.
• Monitor volunteer activities and engage with staff and volunteers on-site to ensure quality service and program effectiveness.
• Support the Alliance of Friends and branch Friends groups as assigned.
• Maintain the Bookmobile collection, including loading, unloading, shelving, shifting, circulation support, weeding, and replacement of materials; facilitate access to KDL's free library services, resources, and programs by assisting patrons and promoting available offerings.
• Serve on committees, advisory groups, or programming teams as assigned.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• This job requires a master's degree in library science or related/relevant field, or bachelor's degree plus 5 years relevant experience, or High school degree plus 10 years applicable experience, with at least five of the ten in successful service as Assistant Branch Librarian at Kent District Library.
• Two to four years of experience coordinating volunteers, community engagement initiatives, or related programs; supervisory experience preferred.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and database or volunteer management software.
• Ability to work independently under general supervision, exercise sound judgment, and maintain confidentiality.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, coordinate, and prioritize multiple projects and deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal, customer service, and communication skills, with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, volunteers, community partners, and the public.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Demonstrated organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a dynamic environment with frequent interruptions.
• Ability to learn and effectively use library technologies, software applications, and office equipment.
• Commitment to providing equitable, inclusive, and responsive service to diverse communities.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional evenings and weekends, as assigned.
• Visual acuity and physical skills necessary to retrieve library materials from shelves and storage areas, maintain library materials, and operate equipment. The incumbent is required to have the physical ability to push/pull fully loaded book carts and lift/carry materials weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Hearing ability to answer telephone and patron, partner, and coworkers’ inquiries
• Generally, will work within an office environment and may occasionally work on a bookmobile that has heat/air conditioning.
• Requires regular travel throughout Kent County and loading/unloading materials in all kinds of weather and climatic conditions.
• May require occasional travel between KDL locations and may include out of county travel for meetings and conferences.
• Work hours may vary, including evenings and weekend hours.
• Frequent sitting/standing in one position for extended periods of time.

Kent District Library has received the 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor given for making significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. Kent District Library was one of five public library award recipients, representing institutions that provide dynamic programming and services that exceed expected levels of service to bring about change that touches the lives of individuals and helps communities thrive.

To learn more about working at Kent District Library, check out our video:

Behind the Scenes @ KDL

Statement on the Use of Pre-Employment Assessments in Evidence-Based Selection Hiring

Kent District Library is committed to the use of evidence-based selection hiring practices to ensure the recruitment of highly qualified candidates. As part of this commitment, we utilize pre-employment assessments that are scientifically validated and job-related. These assessments are designed to objectively evaluate candidates' skills, abilities, and potential for success in specific roles.
Legal Compliance:

1. Non-Discrimination: All pre-employment assessments used by our organization comply with federal anti-discrimination laws, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). We ensure that these assessments do not disproportionately exclude individuals based on race, color, sex, national origin, religion, disability, or age.
2. Job-Relatedness: Our assessments are developed and validated to measure skills and traits that are directly related to the job requirements. This alignment with job duties is in accordance with the Uniform Guidelines on Employee Selection Procedures (UGESP), which provide interpretive guidelines to ensure equitable and non-discriminatory hiring practices.
3. Objectivity and Fairness: By using professionally developed and validated assessments, we enhance the objectivity and fairness of our hiring process. This reduces the likelihood of unconscious bias and increases the accuracy of hiring decisions.

Evidence-Based Approach:

1. Data-Driven Decisions: Our selection process relies on measurable data, such as performance metrics and structured interview results, rather than intuition. This approach ensures that hiring decisions are based on objective, verifiable evidence.
2. Continuous Improvement: We regularly review and update our assessment tools to ensure they remain valid and reliable. This ongoing evaluation helps us maintain high standards in our hiring practices and adapt to evolving job requirements.

By adhering to these principles, our organization strives to create a fair, equitable, and legally defensible hiring process that attracts and retains top talent.

Pre-Employment Assessment Notice

To ensure a fair and equitable hiring process, pre-employment assessments are proctored and must be completed independently. Applicants may not use phones, other electronic devices, reference materials, or receive assistance from another person at any time during the assessment.

Assessments may require access to your camera, microphone, and screen for monitoring purposes, as outlined in the attached proctoring information.

If you are unable to secure a quiet, private location or meet the proctoring requirements, please contact the Kent District Library Human Resources Department at [e-mail] before starting your assessment to discuss possible accommodations.

Failure to follow these requirements will void your application.