Parks Program Coordinator - Volunteer Program

Full Job Description

Under general direction, to research, coordinate, implement, and evaluate park programs, special events, outreach activities, and day-to-day operations.

This position is located in the Parks and Recreation Department and is responsible for the development, recruitment, and coordination of docent and volunteer programs, including volunteer recruitment for short- and long-term opportunities, assisting volunteers with the application and placement process, assisting park staff with projects and the placement of volunteers, the development of volunteer opportunities and events, coordinating with volunteers and staff to plan and manage events, and monitoring and updating volunteers using a volunteer management software system.

In addition to meeting the employment standards, candidates must also possess experience coordinating or leading volunteer programs or projects, or planning large-scale events for volunteer programs.

Requirements

Assists in planning, organizing, and facilitating park operations and maintenance; Coordinates interactions with partners, volunteers, staff, contractors, licensees, and lease-holders; Plans, coordinates, implements, evaluates, and develops recommendations to improve a variety of park programs, special events, and community outreach activities; Schedules, assigns work, trains, and instructs assigned staff, volunteers, and docents; Recruits, orients, evaluates, and recognizes park volunteers, contractors, and docents; Assists in the development and implementation of service agreements and contracts; Evaluates and reports on the progression of service agreements and contracts; Collaborates with field operations staff, other County/public agencies, community organizations, and partners to secure and schedule programs, special events, and/or the special use of park facilities; Explains and interprets park policies and procedures to cooperative partners and others under agreements or contracts; Prepares correspondence and writes reports related to departmental programs; may present to various groups; Reviews, approves, and generates a variety of materials for marketing, informational, or educational purposes; Initiates supply and equipment orders for park programs and events, and manages related inventory; Gathers, develops, furnishes, and maintains accurate data, records, and files of departmental programs, activities, and operational expenses to assist in grant writing, reporting, and budget preparations; May perform minor custodial duties related to maintenance of park facilities, exhibits, and open space; Supervises and operates park visitor centers and gift shops; Maintains specialized equipment and materials; May supervise staff responsible for assisting in the facilitation of day-to-day operations or specialized programs; May be assigned as a Disaster Service Worker, as required; Performs other related duties, as assigned.

Qualifications Sufficient education, training, and experience to demonstrate the possession and direct application of the following knowledge and abilities.

Training and Experience Note: The required knowledge, skills, and abilities are attained through training and experience equivalent to possession of a Bachelor's Degree, and Two (2) years of work experience coordinating or leading programs, projects, or planning large-scale events.

One (1) year of the required experience must have been in the field of the specialized program(s) when it can be demonstrated that: 1) it is an absolute necessity for the successful operation of the program(s); 2) that the Parks Program Coordinator will be held accountable for the specialized knowledge.

Special Requirements: Ability to travel to alternate locations in the course of work.

If driving, possession of a valid California driver's license prior to appointment and the ability to qualify for and maintain a County driver authorization; Possession of valid Advanced First Aid and CPR certificates issued by the American Red Cross before completion of the probationary period.

Knowledge of: A wide range of historical, cultural, natural history, and ecological concepts; Techniques and strategies for working with diverse ethnic populations and community groups; Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, policies, codes, and ordinances; Program development and evaluation; Techniques and strategies for recruiting, leading, training, supervising, and mentoring staff and volunteers; Techniques of organizing and motivating groups; Computer applications, such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.

Ability to: Work independently and in a team environment; Investigate and respond to complaints, assemble information, and prepare detailed written reports; Interpret and apply applicable Federal, State, and local laws, policies, codes, ordinances, and regulations; Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with those contacted in the course of work; Plan, organize, coordinate, and evaluate programs, special events, and activities; Recruit, train, motivate, direct, supervise, and monitor volunteers, contractors, docents, and park staff assigned to implement assigned park program; Maintain flexibility, adjusting to changes in financing, staffing, materials, or other conditions; Collect and organize data using current information systems and basic computer software; Prepare and maintain clear and concise records and reports, including budget recommendations and justifications; Collaborate effectively with other department staff; Conduct and manage retail operations.

Additional Information Must wear prescribed uniform and use proper safety clothing and equipment; Must be able to work nights, weekends, holidays, or other irregular hours and adapt to changing work load requirements and customer demands; Occasionally lift, carry, push, and pull up to sixty (60) pounds; Stand, walk, or sit for extended periods of time; Stoop, bend, reach, grasp, and manipulate small objects with hands.