Portland Metro Events and Communications Coordinator

The Salvation Army is a globally recognized evangelical organization committed to preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and addressing human needs without discrimination. Established as a vital part of the universal Christian Church, The Salvation Army operates internationally, providing critical social services, community support, and spiritual guidance. The organization’s mission centers on compassion, love of God, and a commitment to serving those in need, making it both a spiritual and humanitarian leader in communities worldwide.

The Portland Metro Office of The Salvation Army plays a key role in delivering these mission-driven programs and outreach within the Portland metropolitan area. This office supports various initiatives, including emergency assistance, family and social services, and community engagement programs that serve a diverse population. The Portland Metro Events and Communications Coordinator position is an integral role within this office. It is a full-time, non-exempt position offering an hourly wage of $30.00 with a standard 40-hour workweek. This role is supported by a dedicated team under the supervision of the Portland Metro Coordinator.

As the Portland Metro Events and Communications Coordinator, the successful candidate will be responsible for the strategic planning, coordination, and execution of fundraising, public relations, and community awareness events that promote The Salvation Army’s presence and mission across the Portland Metro region. This role is multifaceted and involves extensive collaboration with internal staff, volunteers, community organizations, corporations, and other stakeholders to ensure the success of major events such as the Portland Rose Festival and National Salvation Army Week, among other key annual and holiday-related activities.

Key responsibilities include overseeing the full event lifecycle from planning through execution, managing event budgets, tracking donations, and maintaining associated databases. The coordinator will also lead the development of a Speakers Bureau to engage advisory board members and community representatives, further enhancing event impact and engagement. Moreover, this position serves as a prominent community awareness representative for The Salvation Army, tasked with building and strengthening collaborative partnerships that increase the organization's visibility and support.

Volunteer management is another crucial aspect of this role. The coordinator will recruit, screen, and place volunteers across multiple program areas, such as Social Services and Family Services, ensuring they are properly trained and compliant with background check regulations. This liaison role between program managers and volunteers is key to sustaining effective program delivery.

The ideal candidate will hold a bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, or a related field, and possess prior experience in event coordination, project management, and volunteer management. Strong organizational skills, the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, excellent verbal and written communication abilities, and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and web-based software programs are essential. A current driver’s license is required due to the travel demands within the Portland Metro area, including occasional overnight or out-of-state trips.

Working conditions include an open office setting with frequent interruptions and the need for flexibility in working hours, as events may require evening, weekend, and holiday availability. Physical requirements involve the ability to sit, stand, kneel, walk for extended periods, and lift up to 25 pounds.

This position supports The Salvation Army’s enduring commitment to equal opportunity employment and accommodates qualified individuals with disabilities in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Applicants are informed that a criminal history check will be conducted, though convictions do not automatically disqualify candidates.

The Portland Metro Events and Communications Coordinator is an exciting opportunity for a motivated, strategic, and compassionate individual to contribute meaningfully to the vibrant Portland community, advancing the mission of The Salvation Army through effective event management, communication, and community engagement.