Volunteer Coordinator

Houston Pets Alive! is seeking a dynamic and people-driven Volunteer Coordinator to lead and grow our volunteer program. This role is responsible for the full lifecycle of volunteer engagement—from recruitment and onboarding to retention and recognition—and plays a key part in creating a positive, mission-aligned experience for all volunteers. The Volunteer Coordinator also manages our signature Adopt Together! program, which places trained HPA! volunteers inside partner shelters to increase lifesaving through improved adoption support and matchmaking. This position is public-facing and hands-on, often working in the field alongside volunteers.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with leadership and staff to identify and fulfill volunteer needs across departments.
• Oversee recruitment, orientation, and onboarding of new volunteers; partner with department leads for ongoing training.
• Manage and lead the Adopt Together! program, including scheduling, training, and supervising HPA! volunteers at local municipal shelters on a weekly basis.
• Maintain a regular presence at partner shelters to support HPA! volunteers, model effective adoption counseling, and coach shelter staff as needed.
• Manage volunteer schedules, assignments, and communications, ensuring all animal care and program shifts are filled.
• Address volunteer feedback and conflict resolution professionally and in alignment with organizational policies.
• Maintain and regularly update volunteer program documentation including policies, role descriptions, training materials, and manuals.
• Represent HPA! at community events, adoption outings, and outreach opportunities to promote volunteerism and increase visibility.
• Engage the public with enthusiasm around HPA!’s mission, adoption process, volunteer opportunities, and ways to give.
• Collaborate with the marketing and communications team to highlight volunteer impact across digital platforms, newsletters, and reports.
• Maintain accurate records and volunteer data using relevant tools and systems.
• Track and analyze volunteer metrics to assess impact, identify trends, and inform strategy.
• Support organizational events and initiatives as needed.
• Assist with special projects and perform other duties as assigned.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent project and time management skills
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail
• Effective communicator—both written and verbal
• Skilled in relationship-building, collaboration, and public speaking
• Calm and resourceful under pressure; capable of resolving conflicts diplomatically
• Proficient in Google Workspace and Microsoft Office
• Passion for animals and animal welfare
• Bilingual in Spanish a plus

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s degree preferred
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in volunteer coordination, project/event management, or community engagement
• Comfortable working directly with animals in a shelter or rescue environment

Work Environment & Schedule

This is a full-time exempt position requiring a minimum of 40 hours per week, including weekends and evenings as needed. This role involves regular off-site work at partner shelters and events. Flexibility and reliable transportation are essential.