Volunteer Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC operates in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, focusing on responding to the world's most severe humanitarian crises. The organization aims to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With a mission to help people survive, reclaim control of their futures, and strengthen their communities, the IRC employs a diverse workforce dedicated to delivering lasting impact and hope to millions globally.

Job Overview:
The Volunteer Specialist position is a vital role within the IRC, operating under the direction of the Community Relations Manager. This position is primarily responsible for collaborating with IRC staff to assess and fulfill the needs for volunteers, interns, mentors, and AmeriCorps members. The Specialist will engage in the recruitment, screening, training, and supervision of these individuals, ensuring they receive ongoing support and guidance throughout their involvement. Additionally, the Volunteer Specialist will manage volunteer information using a centralized database system and assist in community engagement efforts, which include facilitating in-kind donations, preparing outreach materials, and supporting events as necessary. The role is designed to maintain an active and effective volunteer program that aligns with the IRC's mission and community needs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Volunteer Specialist include:

• Internship Coordination: Ensure the IRC maintains a professionally managed intern and volunteer program by liaising with program managers to identify intern/volunteer opportunities. Organize recruitment cycles for interns and manage the application and interview process. Oversee onboarding and exit processes for interns, including background checks and orientation sessions. Maintain relationships with local universities and keep recruitment platforms updated.
• Volunteer Coordination: Work with staff to identify volunteer needs and assist in developing assignment descriptions. Conduct outreach to attract new volunteers, including regular information sessions. Maintain communication with volunteers, keeping them informed about opportunities and resources. Manage volunteer records in Salesforce, including timesheets and case notes. Oversee onboarding and exit processes for volunteers.
• Outreach, Training, and Other: Collaborate with the Community Relations Manager to create outreach materials and assist with events and community engagement. Represent the IRC at local meetings and conduct outreach to recruit potential donors, interns, and volunteers. Organize webinars to inform potential volunteers about current opportunities and update resources for managing the intern and volunteer lifecycle. Supervise community engagement interns or other volunteers as needed and perform other tasks as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 1-2 years of related experience. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) is essential. The ideal candidate will be a self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills, capable of managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are crucial, along with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural setting. The candidate should also possess self-direction and initiative to lead projects and follow through to completion.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college is preferred for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of volunteer management and community engagement.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 1-2 years of relevant experience in volunteer coordination, community engagement, or a related field. This experience should demonstrate the ability to manage volunteer programs effectively and engage with diverse communities.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as requirements.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in a standard office environment, with some evening and weekend hours required. A valid driver’s license with legally required insurance is necessary, as the role may involve using personal transportation within the service delivery area, with mileage reimbursement available. The IRC Los Angeles office operates from 9 am to 5 pm. This is a short-term role with an anticipated end date of September 30, 2026, and is not eligible for IRC's full benefits package. However, short-term employees in the U.S. are eligible for a 403(b) retirement savings plan with employer match, paid sick leave, and access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential counseling and mental health support.