Science Communication Volunteer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Description

Job Summary

Advance Metroparks Toledo's core conservation mission by recruiting, onboarding, and managing volunteers. Create and coordinate volunteer projects and programs for the purpose of helping Metroparks to achieve its strategic goals.  

Duties and Responsibilities

• Recruit, onboard, place, schedule and recognize volunteers from diverse backgrounds which are representative of the Lucas County community. 
• Work cooperatively and creatively with all departments on the development of new volunteer opportunities, across all Metroparks and the Riverwalk, as needed to appeal to a diverse community.
• Supervisor volunteers; assess skills and abilities, make assignments, ensure uniform worn as required, monitor attendance, monitor safety, provide needed equipment, ensure hours accurately recorded, train as necessary, and coach as necessary.
• Conduct driver's license and background checks. 
• Ensure supervision and safety of minor volunteers.
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations and best practices.
• Maintain records in volunteer program database; ensure accuracy of data and prepare reports.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures.
• Assess Metroparks' and Riverwalk needs for volunteers, create volunteer position descriptions as needed, train volunteers and activate the program.
• Work with all departments to implement policies and procedures that identify needs and promote volunteer opportunities, safety, and work procedures.
• Communicate with volunteers through a variety of communication channels including newsletters, direct mailings, email, internet and social media; write and edit publications and communications.
• Respond to inquiries and information requests regarding Metroparks volunteer program. 
• Provide training, guidance, and feedback to staff outside of Volunteer Services to allow them to work effectively with volunteers.
• Direct the work of volunteers.
• Conduct volunteer interviews and make placement decisions in a timely manner.
• Research, develop and maintain relationships with community groups, corporate groups, and other organizations to encourage volunteer participation and long-term partnerships.
• Through formal and informal presentations, promote Metroparks and Riverwalk volunteer opportunities in the community. 
• Work with staff to ensure volunteers have supervision during projects. 
• Coordinate volunteer special events.
• Assist in planning and implementation of volunteer recognition events and enrichment opportunities for volunteers.
• Ensure a clean, safe working environment for volunteers.
• Attend meetings, trainings and learning opportunities to improve volunteer coordination for Metroparks.
• Other park district duties as assigned.

Equipment Used

• General office equipment 
• Software & Apps: Microsoft Office Suite
• Maintenance Equipment: basic hand tools and field equipment 
• Vehicles: on & off road park vehicles

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Schedule: 40 hour work-week that may require work in the evenings, weekends, and/or holidays
• Home Work Location: Wildwood; will be expected to work in the office and outdoors at all Metroparks, as schedule requires
• May require business use of personal vehicle to travel between Metroparks locations.
• Periodic outdoor physical labor exposed to climate extremes, inclement weather, and/or herbicides.
• Requires regular lifting of up to 25 pounds and occasional lifting up to 40 pounds. Ability to move about off trail over uneven ground and in wooded areas while carrying equipment.

Requirements

Job Requirements

1. Must be 18 years of age and possess a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
2. Education: Associate's Degree in Environmental Science, Communication, Administration or related field or equivalent work experience.
3. Experience: Moderate experience coordinator volunteers, programs, or special events utilizing volunteers. 
4. Certifications: Must obtain the following certifications within 1 year of employment and fulfill requalification and recertification requirements: (Internal Candidates: Certifications already achieved, preferred).

• First Aid/CPR

Alternates to the position requirements may be made as Metroparks finds appropriate and acceptable.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Demonstrated appreciation for enhancing quality of life and conserving the region's natural resources through clean, safe and natural parks and open spaces.  

Knowledge

• Knowledge of principles related to managing volunteers.
• Understanding of recruiting, evaluating, retaining, and rewarding volunteers.

Skills

• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to monitor, assess, and coach performance to motivate team, make improvements, and/or take corrective action. 
• Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to speak and write clearly, concisely and persuasively with ability to communicate one-on-one or in group settings in a way that inspires confidence and motivates engagement with the Metroparks.
• Project Management skills; ability to set goals, manage resources, and deliver outcomes across multiple projects concurrently.
• Excellent organizations skills and attention to detail.
• Strong Computer Skills
• Problem Solving skills; ability to gather, organize and evaluate data; formulate recommendations and develop solutions. 

Abilities

• Dependable, with a high degree of integrity and professionalism.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective professional relationships with all stakeholders, including employees, volunteers and the general public.
• Passion for providing excellent customer service.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.

Metroparks Toledo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.