
Volunteer Engagement Coordinator - Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chaska, MN
Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Work Schedule
Standard Hours
Weekend Shifts
Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Professional development opportunities
Employee wellness programs
flexible schedule
Job Description
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC) is a prestigious public research university recognized as one of the largest campuses in the country, offering countless undergraduate, graduate, and professional opportunities in study and research. Nestled in the heart of a diverse and vibrant metropolitan area, UMTC benefits from collaborations with world-renowned institutions including health centers, international corporations, governmental agencies, and various arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations. It prides itself on its inclusive culture and has been highlighted by the Star Tribune and Forbes for its exceptional workplace environment, diversity initiatives, and support for new graduates and women. As an employer, UMTC is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal access and opportunity across all programs and employment opportunities, regardless of identity or background. This commitment is integral to its mission of academic excellence and community enrichment.
The University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, a renowned horticultural institution and part of UMTC, is searching for a skilled Volunteer Engagement Coordinator. This is a full-time, in-person position with work hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, occasionally requiring evening or weekend shifts to support key events. The Arboretum is a plant science and community-focused organization dedicated to growing knowledge and inspiring action to support thriving ecosystems and deepen humanity's connection with nature. The Volunteer Engagement Coordinator will act as an essential liaison among staff, volunteers, and corporate volunteer groups, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration among all stakeholders. This role is instrumental in identifying volunteer opportunity gaps and encouraging deeper volunteer integration into the Arboretum’s operations and projects, especially within its grounds and the Horticultural Research Center.
The Volunteer Engagement Coordinator’s responsibilities include working closely with volunteers and staff to manage projects, foster open and communicative partnerships, support volunteer recruitment and training, and assist with event planning and execution. This position demands an individual who is adept at managing multiple priorities, with strong communication and organizational skills, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively. Familiarity or interest in horticultural practices is a plus, along with experience in volunteer management and customer-focused environments. As part of the Arboretum’s commitment to equity and inclusion, this role also entails supporting initiatives that ensure the volunteer program is welcoming and accessible to all. The position reports directly to the Volunteer Program Manager and contributes significantly to enhancing the volunteer experience and strengthening the organization’s mission-driven community outreach.
The University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, a renowned horticultural institution and part of UMTC, is searching for a skilled Volunteer Engagement Coordinator. This is a full-time, in-person position with work hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, occasionally requiring evening or weekend shifts to support key events. The Arboretum is a plant science and community-focused organization dedicated to growing knowledge and inspiring action to support thriving ecosystems and deepen humanity's connection with nature. The Volunteer Engagement Coordinator will act as an essential liaison among staff, volunteers, and corporate volunteer groups, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration among all stakeholders. This role is instrumental in identifying volunteer opportunity gaps and encouraging deeper volunteer integration into the Arboretum’s operations and projects, especially within its grounds and the Horticultural Research Center.
The Volunteer Engagement Coordinator’s responsibilities include working closely with volunteers and staff to manage projects, foster open and communicative partnerships, support volunteer recruitment and training, and assist with event planning and execution. This position demands an individual who is adept at managing multiple priorities, with strong communication and organizational skills, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively. Familiarity or interest in horticultural practices is a plus, along with experience in volunteer management and customer-focused environments. As part of the Arboretum’s commitment to equity and inclusion, this role also entails supporting initiatives that ensure the volunteer program is welcoming and accessible to all. The position reports directly to the Volunteer Program Manager and contributes significantly to enhancing the volunteer experience and strengthening the organization’s mission-driven community outreach.
Job Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Five years related experience including project management
- Ability to work some weekends and nights for signature events
- Basic knowledge of workplace software suites such as Google Workspace, Microsoft Word, and PowerPoint
- Ability to learn volunteer management software
- Documented experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Experience setting work goals and meeting deadlines
- Experience in customer/client focused work environment
- Proven communication skills
- Experience working effectively collaboratively and independently
Job Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED
- Five years related experience including project management
- Coursework in related field may substitute some experience
- Basic knowledge of workplace software suites such as Google Workspace and Microsoft Office
- Ability to learn volunteer management software
- Documented experience managing multiple priorities in fast-paced environments
- Experience setting work goals and consistently meeting deadlines
- Experience in customer/client focused work environments
- Proven communication skills
- Experience working effectively both collaboratively and independently
- Ability to work some weekends and nights
- Interest or experience with gardening/horticultural practices
- Experience with volunteer recruitment and training
- Ability to navigate conflict and seek solutions
- Familiarity with CRM, project management, and graphic design tools
- Demonstrated ability to unite individuals around common goals
- Commitment to creating equitable and inclusive volunteer programs
Job Duties
- Work in partnership with staff and volunteers to help oversee projects and deepen relationships between parties
- Foster communicative, open partnerships among corporate teams by crafting regular communications and meeting volunteer groups when they arrive
- Provide support to staff and Volunteer Program Manager as needed for areas such as schedule reports, corporate scheduling, and annual federal reporting
- Represent The MN Landscape Arboretum at meetings and while working on the grounds
- Serve as a primary point person for volunteer groups and staff needing assistance with job posting and identification
- Identify gaps in opportunities for volunteers by working alongside staff and volunteers
- Coordinate projects appropriate for volunteers and volunteer groups aligning with Arboretum’s mission and goals
- Meet groups on-site to introduce them to the Arboretum and the scheduled activity
- Foster connections between staff, volunteers, and the Volunteer Center by being the friendly face of the Volunteer Program
- Work in partnership with Volunteer Program Coordinator to advance and communicate priority focus areas and initiatives
- Participate in program evaluation efforts including reporting systems
- Partner with Development to maintain contact with group leaders
- Organize volunteer celebration events including activities, catering, and music
- Provide ongoing encouragement and gratitude for volunteer efforts
- Attend regular meetings with Volunteer Program Manager
- Share reporting responsibilities
- Assist in developing outreach and equity initiatives
- Update manuals and documents annually
- Perform other duties as assigned
Job Criteria
Experience
Mid Level (3-7 years)
Job Location
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