Volunteer Manager

Job Title: Volunteer Manager

Organization: FIRST Washington

Location: Hybrid – Remote with In-Person Event Support (Washington & Oregon) and some in person work at our warehouse

Employment Type: Full-Time, Salaried

Reports To: Director of Programs

About FIRST Washington

FIRST Washington (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a nonprofit organization that delivers hands-on, mentor-based STEM programs for students in grades 4–12 through FIRST® LEGO® League, FIRST® Tech Challenge, and FIRST® Robotics Competition programs. We support over 1,100 teams statewide and inspire young people to be science and technology leaders through engaging, competitive events.

Position Summary

The Volunteer Manager plays a critical role in building and sustaining a vibrant, skilled, and mission-aligned volunteer community. This position is responsible for recruiting, onboarding, training, and supporting hundreds of volunteers who help deliver FIRST Washington’s robotics competitions and year-round programs. The ideal candidate will be an organized, people-focused professional with a passion for youth STEM education and experience managing volunteers or events.

Key Responsibilities

• Volunteer Recruitment: Develop and execute strategies to recruit volunteers for events and year-round support roles across all FIRST programs.
• Onboarding & Training: Oversee volunteer registration and screening processes; deliver training and orientation sessions to prepare volunteers for their roles.
• Relationship Management: Build strong relationships with volunteers, providing ongoing communication, recognition, and support.
• Event Support: Serve as onsite volunteer coordinator or event manager at events as well as provide remote event support as needed (
• primarily on weekends during competition seasons). Work with event Volunteer Coordinators to ensure roles are filled, volunteers are supported, and operations run smoothly.
• Database Management: Maintain accurate volunteer data using FIRST systems (e.g., VIMS) and internal tools. Track engagement and identify areas for growth.
• Collaboration: Work closely with regional partners, program managers, and event leads to anticipate needs and fill critical volunteer roles.
• Volunteer Recognition: Implement systems to recognize and retain dedicated volunteers, including awards, events, and communications.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in volunteer management, event coordination, or community engagement (nonprofit or youth-serving organization preferred)
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work in a high pressure environment and meet deadlines
• Comfortable working evenings/weekends during the event season (typically November–April)
• Comfort using volunteer databases, email marketing tools, and project management platforms
• Ability to work flexible hours during competition season (evenings/weekends)
• Passion for youth development, education, and/or STEM fields
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to events across Washington and Oregon

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with FIRST programs or experience volunteering at FIRST events
• Experience managing large-scale events or volunteer teams

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: $70,000 -$75,000
• Benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid time off, flexible scheduling
• Opportunities for professional development and growth within the organization
• Mileage reimbursement and per diem for travel days.