Coordinator, Volunteer Engagement

Job Posting: COORDINATOR, VOLUNTEER ENGAGEMENT 
Type: Full-Time 
Location: Ottawa 
Salary:  $55,000-$65,000 annually, based on experience and fit 
Start Date:  November 17, 2025

The Ottawa Food Bank is seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Coordinator, Volunteer Engagement, to support the development and delivery of our volunteer program. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment, enjoys working with diverse groups, and is passionate about community impact. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting the Manager of Volunteer Engagement and coordinating projects that enhance volunteer experiences and operational efficiency.

ABOUT US 

The Ottawa Food Bank is the primary emergency food provider in the National Capital Region, supporting nearly 100 community food programs. With over 556,000 annual visits, including 37% children, we distribute close to 8.3 million pounds of food each year, thanks to the generosity and support of our community. 

SUMMARY 

Reporting to the Manager of Volunteer Engagement, the Coordinator, Volunteer Engagement ensures the effective administration and operation of the Ottawa Food Bank's volunteer program. 
This role supports all aspects of the volunteer program and the volunteer life cycle, including volunteer recruitment, screening, orientation, placement, training, recognition, scheduling, and retention, while also contributing to strategic projects and initiative.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Collaborates with staff across the Ottawa Food Bank to determine upcoming volunteer needs and
  ensures adequate scheduling to meet operational demands. 
• Develops a deep understanding of The Ottawa Food Bank operations and events requiring volunteer support, and the role volunteers play in their success.  
•  Supports and facilitates the volunteer registration process, ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience.
  Builds and maintains strong relationships with volunteers, and volunteers groups addressing concerns promptly and professionally. 
• Supports the volunteer program in all environments, including at the Ottawa Food Bank warehouse, Community Harvest Farm, and off-site events.  
• Identifies and pursues potential volunteer recruitment opportunities through a lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring outreach to underrepresented communities.
• Provides information and orientation training sessions to volunteers both online and in person, as needed 
  Ensures Supervisors of Volunteers are informed of relevant policies and health and safety requirements of the Ottawa Food Bank and that these are clearly communicated to volunteers. 
• Maintains accurate volunteer profiles and volunteer participation records using the Ottawa Food Bank's volunteer software platform. 
• Supports staff in the planning and execution of volunteer appreciation opportunities. 
• Liaises with internal department and external stakeholders/organizations to coordinate volunteer engagement opportunities. 
• Maintains up to date knowledge of the Ottawa Food Bank's volunteer management platform and ensures that it is effectively utilized. Ensures any required upgrades or updates are implemented. 
• Provides regular progress updates and identifies successes, issues, and challenges related to volunteer management and engagement to the Manager of Volunteer Resources .
• Participates in public speaking and community engagement opportunities. 
• Responds to general inquiries from the public via phone, email, or in person in a professional and timely manner. 
• Contributes volunteer program-related information and content to the volunteer section of the Ottawa Food Bank website and volunteer newsletter. 
• Supports the planning, distribution, and analysis of the annual volunteer survey, contributing insights to improve program effectiveness. 
• Monitors the condition of the volunteer lounge and brings forward any concerns to the Manager of Operations. 
• Supports volunteer activities that may occur during evenings or weekends, ensuring appropriate coordination and coverage outside regular working hours.
•  Supports and assists other departments and team members as required. 
• Performs additional tasks and participates in special projects as required to support the volunteer program and organizational goals. 

KNOWLEDGE AND COMPETENCIES 

Strong understanding of effective volunteer engagement strategies. 
Strong oral, written, presentation, and public speaking skills.  
Highly organized, independent, and self-directed, with the ability to manage multiple simultaneous priorities. Comfortable working in a busy environment. 
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to seek out solutions to challenges, with a continuous improvement mindset. 
Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, SharePoint, with experience in database management and digital collaboration tools. 

EXPERIENCE 

Minimum 2 years of experience in volunteer administration in a paid or unpaid capacity, preferably within a medium to large non-profit organization. 

EDUCATION AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS 

Completion of a post-secondary degree or diploma in social services, psychology, sociology, or a related field or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. 
Certification in Volunteer Management or Human Resources Management is considered an asset. 
Certified Volunteer Administrator (CVA) designation or currently working towards certification is an asset. 

RESPONSIBILITY FOR CONTACTS 

The work involves frequent contact with co-workers, volunteers, and the public, including corporate and community organizations.
The incumbent works extensively with Operations and Events staff to plan the deployment of volunteers and resolve any issues that arise. 
Tact, discretion, and good judgment are necessary when dealing with volunteers with diverse backgrounds and ability levels.  

PROBLEM-SOLVING 

The incumbent regularly and independently resolves issues that arise regarding volunteer availability and deployment. Complex issues are escalated to the Manager of Volunteer Resources. 

SUPERVISION 

This position has no direct reports but is responsible for supporting staff who work with volunteers.  They will address any issues related to volunteer engagement lifecycle, including performance-based challenges.

CONSEQUENCE OF ERRORS 

Errors could directly impact the execution of events or the Ottawa Food Bank's ability to distribute products to agencies and clients. Errors could also impact the Ottawa Food Bank's public reputation. 

WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND TRAVEL 

Most duties are performed in an office environment.  with occasional responsibilities carried out in the warehouse, at the Community Harvest Farm, or during off-site events.  Travel is usually limited to the National Capital Region. 
Some activities may  take place outside of regular working hours, including evenings and/or weekends. 
Due to the need to attend off-site events at irregular hours, the incumbent must have access to a personal vehicle and a valid "G" driver's license. 

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS  

The work is varied and can be occasionally stressful due to deadlines and competing priorities.  It also involves frequent interruptions that require adaptability and focus. 
Moderate physical activity is required to perform the responsibilities of this role, including setting up special events.

LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS 

Excellent English language skills (verbal and written) are required for the position.  Proficiency in French (spoken and written) is an asset as is the ability to communicate other languages. 

APPLICATION PROCESS: 

Posting Date: October 10, 2025 
Application Deadline: October 24, 2025 
Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter. 
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for screening and interviews. 
Planned start date: November 17, 2025 

We welcome applicants from different career paths and backgrounds. If you're passionate about this position but don't meet every qualification, we encourage you to still apply 
 
The Ottawa Food Bank is committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity in our workforce. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, and members of the 2SLGBTQI+ and BIPOC communities. 
 
In our commitment to accessibility, the Ottawa Food Bank provides accommodations for persons with disabilities throughout the entire recruitment process. If you require accommodation, please inform your recruiter, and we will ensure that your needs are met. 
 
Ready to apply? Submit your application by the deadline to join a collaborative and mission-driven organization making an impact in the community.