Volunteer Coordinator
Volunteer coordinators recruit, support and retain the volunteers many NGOs depend on. They are the bridge between staff and volunteers: they win new supporters, organise assignments and training, and make sure volunteers feel valued. Here's what the role involves, what you should bring — and which organisations are hiring volunteer coordinators right now.
Key takeaways
- Volunteer coordinators recruit, coordinate and retain volunteers — the bridge between staff and the people who give their time.
- Organisational talent, empathy and strong communication with very different people are key.
- Many enter via social work, education, event management or their own volunteering.
The sector in numbers
Based on every role we've tracked in this field on baito, not just the ones open right now.
What does a volunteer coordinator do?
Volunteer coordinators — also called volunteer managers — own an organisation's entire volunteer programme. They recruit new volunteers, onboard them, plan their assignments and support them throughout their engagement. The goal is for volunteers to feel comfortable, be effective and stay with the organisation long-term.
The role combines people work, organisation and relationship-building – from recruitment through training and recognition to resolving conflicts. In many NGOs, good volunteer management determines how much the organisation can achieve at all.
Typical tasks
- Recruit, select and onboard volunteers
- Plan, coordinate and support assignments
- Organise training and further qualification
- Design recognition and appreciation (events, certificates, feedback)
- Act as the interface between staff, volunteers and project teams
- Document engagement, make impact visible and improve processes
What you'll need
There is no single fixed path in. Many volunteer coordinators come from social work, education, event management or HR — often with their own volunteering experience. There are also certificate courses and further training in volunteer management.
- Organisational and coordination talent
- Empathy and enjoyment of working with people
- Communication and facilitation skills
- Structured working, even with many people involved
- Identification with the organisation's mission
Outlook
Well-organised volunteering is vital for many NGOs — so people who can steer it professionally are in demand. With experience you take on larger volunteer programmes, lead a team or help shape an organisation's engagement strategy.
The work is varied and meaningful: you work with very different people and see directly the impact that engagement creates. For those who enjoy organising and bringing people together, it's a fulfilling role.
Salary
Median and typical range from 104 roles that state a salary on baito, gross per year. You'll find concrete ranges in the open positions below.
Do you work for an NGO?
Then baito is where you'll find the people who care about your mission — from fundraising and campaigning to leadership. Post your role and reach them directly.
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Frequently asked questions
Q1What does a volunteer coordinator do?+
Q2How do you become a volunteer coordinator?+
Q3What does a volunteer coordinator earn?+
Q4Is volunteer coordination the same as volunteer management?+
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