Volunteer Programs Manager — Engagement & Operations

Mama's Kitchen; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Mama’s Kitchen seeks a dedicated Volunteer Services Manager to lead the day-to-day operations of our volunteer program in San Diego. You will recruit, train, schedule, recognize, and retain volunteers to support kitchen prep, meal packaging, delivery, events, and admin tasks.

You’ll supervise the volunteer services coordinator, develop onboarding and training materials, and analyze program performance to drive better outcomes while modeling ethics and professionalism in all interactions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience preferred.
• 2–4 years of progressively responsible experience managing volunteer programs, community engagement, or nonprofit operations.
• 2+ years of supervisory experience leading staff and/or volunteer teams.
• Experience coordinating large volunteer programs (500+ volunteers annually preferred).
• Experience with volunteer management software (Better Impact or Golden preferred).
• Strong organizational, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Ability to analyze data and translate findings into operational improvements.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships with diverse volunteers, staff, and community partners.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and volunteer database systems.
• Valid California driver’s license and ability to drive organizational vehicles when needed.
• Be Able to lift 25 pounds

Responsibilities

• Manage the daily operations of the volunteer program, ensuring adequate volunteer coverage for kitchen prep, meal packaging, staging, office/admin, delivery, special events, and other operational needs.
• Supervise volunteer scheduling and staffing to ensure organizational needs are met while providing a positive volunteer experience.
• Oversee volunteer recruitment activities including application review, reference and background checks, onboarding, and orientation.
• Monitor volunteer participation, attendance, retention, and scheduling trends, implementing improvements to maximize engagement and operational effectiveness.
• Ensure volunteer records, certifications, training, waivers, and database information remains accurate, confidential, and up to date.
• Manage in-service/training calendar for grant and contract related requirements.
• Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and mission-centered volunteer environment where volunteers feel valued and connected to the organization's impact.
• Lead volunteer appreciation efforts including recognition programs, milestone awards, appreciation events, and personalized recognition.
• Build strong relationships with recurring volunteers, group leaders, interns, and community partners.
• Assist with volunteer communications through email, phone, presentations, orientations, newsletters, and other communication platforms.
• Partner with operational departments to forecast volunteer needs and allocate volunteer resources effectively.
• Partner with departments to leverage internal staff skillsets to effectively approach recruitment
• Coordinate volunteer support for organizational events, community outreach activities, fundraising initiatives, and special projects.
• Assist with meal deliveries or other operational functions when necessary to support organizational needs.

Skills

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Volunteer program management

Supervisory experience

Large volunteer programs coordination

Volunteer management software

Organization and project management

Communication and presentation skills

Data analysis for improvements

Relationship building with volunteers

Microsoft Office and databases

Driver's license (CA)

Ability to lift 25 pounds

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Better Impact

Golden

Job description

Mama’s Kitchen seeks a dedicated Volunteer Services Manager to lead the day-to-day operations of our volunteer program in San Diego. You will recruit, train, schedule, recognize, and retain volunteers to support kitchen prep, meal packaging, delivery, events, and admin tasks.

You’ll supervise the volunteer services coordinator, develop onboarding and training materials, and analyze program performance to drive better outcomes while modeling ethics and professionalism in all interactions.