Sample Position Description

From the Idea File
The Lutheran Resource Center, Clear Lake, Iowa

Volunteer Coordinator’s Role

The key agency position is that of the Volunteer Coordinator. He/she is responsible for developing and implementing the volunteer program with the organization. In general the VC works with the staff or membership in planning, developing and supervising a meaningful volunteer program. He/she may recruit, interview, select, orient, train, place, supervise, motivate, recognize and evaluate volunteers, and may also be responsible for public relations, publicity, funding, budgeting and record keeping. Although the VC is responsible to "top management," he/she must be aware of and sensitive to the entire atmosphere around her/him. The position is a rather unique one because it requires work in both the organization and the community. The VC acts as liaison between the organization and the community at large and between staff, volunteers, and recipients of the services. In order to be effective, the VC must be sensitive to the atmosphere surrounding the volunteer program.

An analysis of the coordinator’s role includes:

1. Works with church staff to plan recruitment program

2. Determines where volunteers are needed

3. Writes job description for each volunteer role

4. Seeks new sources for volunteer recruitment

5. Prepares or obtains literature describing volunteer tasks

6. Interviews, selects and places qualified applicants

7. Plans and implements volunteer training programs

8. Keeps records of volunteer leader service

9. Keeps volunteers motivated and enthusiastic

10. Recognizes volunteer leaders’ accomplishments