Training and Recruitment Coordinator

Location: Onsite at the Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network office in Goleta, CA

Job Type:​  Non-exempt, full-time

Location: SBWCN Wildlife Care Facility – Goleta, CA

Reports to:​  Director of Rehabilitation

Work authorization: United States (Required)

Compensation: $22-28/hr commensurate with experience

Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network (SBWCN) is the only general wildlife rehabilitation facility in Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties. From hummingbirds to pelicans to raccoons, SBWCN works 7 days a week to rescue and rehabilitate wild animals that have been orphaned, injured, or oiled and then release them back into the wild.  Volunteers are critical to the rescue and rehabilitation of thousands of wild animals every year and between 150-200 people regularly volunteer to answer phones, go on rescue missions, wash dishes and laundry, prepare diets, and care for animals. SBWCN relies on the generosity of volunteers to keep up with the sheer amount of work required to care for hundreds of animals at a time. SBWCN is full of compassionate people who work hard for a great cause.

The Training and Recruitment Coordinator, is an hourly, non-exempt position that works under the leadership of the Director of Operations and the Director of Rehabilitation. They are responsible for recruiting and training volunteers in general volunteer tasks. This position may be required to work on some evenings and weekends as needed.

This person will provide floating support to full-time and part-time staff (regular and seasonal) in Seabird, Songbird, and Mammal departments.

Job Duties and Responsibilities (Other duties may be assigned as appropriate.)

Recruiting

• Develops, promotes, and maintains a wide range of volunteer opportunities within the organization
• Recruits, interviews, and places applicants for volunteer work
• Develops and maintains relationships with other volunteer organizations within the area
• Hosts and supports volunteer recruiting at community events to attract qualified candidates.  Works with SBWCN Communications Manager and professional associations to publicize opportunities for volunteers

Job Knowledge

• Surveys staff periodically to assess needs for volunteer assistance
• Knowledge of all tasks related to basic animal husbandry and tasks completed by volunteers to assist and perform animal husbandry tasks
• Maintains Volunteer Service Descriptions for each volunteer assignment
• Ensures volunteers are staffed to support the various areas of animal care operations.

Training

• Coordinator is responsible for volunteer recruitment, training, and evaluation
• Physically trains volunteers and interns to learn basic tasks at Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network
• Arranges and conducts volunteer orientation and training
• Develops and manages volunteer policies, procedures, and standards of volunteer service Assess visitor feedback received through comment forms
• Maintains accurate records and assists in development of timely statistical and activity reports on volunteer participation
• Takes initiative to promote SBWCN volunteer opportunities and align volunteers with needs at the Wildlife Care Center.
• Other duties as assigned.

Scheduling and Communications

• Manage online volunteer sign-up sheets and create/update training materials as needed
• Schedules all volunteer activities for animal care.
• Problem solves gaps in the volunteer schedule
• Provides ongoing support and guidance for volunteers
• Acts as a single point of contact for volunteer communications
• Confers with volunteers and Rehabilitation Director/Director of Operations to promote cooperation and interest
• Serve as a liaison between volunteers and animal care staff members
• Facilitates distribution of information relevant to volunteers; Creates and distributes various communications and publications via the volunteer organizing platform (Get Connected) and e-newsletter (MailChimp)
• Conducts tours as needed or requested for prospective volunteers and interns
• Participates in team meetings as needed
• Identifies community outreach opportunities such as fairs, festivals, local markets and organizations
• Maintains schedule of volunteer opportunities
• Posts weekly Volunteer Schedules and manages any shift changes and notifications to staff on volunteer assignments.
• Works proactively with staff to provide accurate information and assistance to the volunteer
• Trains volunteers to use office and specialized equipment when appropriate, coordinated with any other relevant staff.
• Informs Communications Director when information needs to be added to the donor management system.
• Builds relationships with groups through service and follow up communication that results in return group visits
• Conducts post-visit calls to track successes and identify problems so that relationships are maintained and system improvements are made.
• Help to Coordinate volunteer appreciation events and opportunities, and generally plan for volunteer perks and appreciation.
• Other duties as assigned.

General Qualifications

Must be willing to undergo onsite training to work with the various species generally encountered at the Wildlife Center.

Prior animal handling and care experience is preferred. Experience working with wildlife is ideal.

Must be responsible, professional and able to work effectively with minimal supervision once training has progressed.

Stay curious and excited about new protocols and treatments for wildlife.

Proven supervisory skills, including the ability to motivate volunteers and develop a positive team environment.

Ability to work a flexible schedule, including early mornings, evenings, weekends and holidays.

Willing and able to work collaboratively and cooperatively with others to solve problems constructively and resolve conflicts.

Must demonstrate self-motivation and good interpersonal communication skills.

Must be able to multitask, and work well under fast-paced and sometimes stressful conditions.

Willingness and ability to adjust tasks in accordance with changing priorities and deadlines.

Must be able to move about the center for hours, ascend/descend stairs, transport equipment and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds, and position oneself into tight spaces, low areas, or on the ground to perform training demonstrations and assist animal care staff as needed.

Remain current in general office technology

Stays curious about changing animal care needs, new ways to train volunteers, and methods for communicating information.

Work Environment

This is a position in an animal care facility and wildlife hospital. While performing the duties of this position the employee will be exposed to odors, noise, and in the vicinity of a variety of wild birds, mammals, and reptiles and hazardous material (such as petroleum products during an oil spill). Employees may also be exposed to moving parts, radiography equipment, and there is a risk of potential exposure to zoonotic diseases.

How to Apply

Please send cover letter, resume, and three references to contact@sbwcn.org please put “Training and Recruitment Coordinator” in the subject line of your email.