Volunteer Coordinator

Job Title: Volunteer Coordinator

Organization: The Observatory

Website:

Location: Remote/Online

Commitment: Flexible

Duration: Ongoing

Position Type: Volunteer (credits available for students)

Overview:

The Observatory is a world-class wiki encyclopedia and life guide, freely available to the public. Our mission is to illuminate the critical issues of our time through expert analysis, in-depth research, and accessible knowledge. Powered by a global network of partner experts and organizations, the Observatory is an evolving, trusted resource for anyone seeking to better understand the world around them.

The Observatory seeks dedicated Volunteer Coordinators to join our team and play a crucial role in engaging and assisting the growing and committed group of volunteers who help edit, produce, publish, and promote our original content.

Position Summary:

As a Volunteer Coordinator, you will work with our editors, proofreaders, and ghostwriters throughout the entire volunteer lifecycle. As part of the volunteer management team, you will play a key role in onboarding, supporting, and engaging our volunteers as well as helping to manage our volunteer database. This is a unique opportunity to apply your communication and organizational skills to a purpose-driven cause with global implications.

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about journalism and eager to contribute to meaningful storytelling, expert analysis, and fact-based reporting.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop volunteer job descriptions and orientation training materials
• Assess candidates and provide training, support, and direction, as needed
• Provide regular communication with volunteers, including encouragement, suggestions, and feedback
• Help maintain the volunteer database
• Support the management team by completing assigned action items in a timely manner and attending virtual meetings, when possible
• Strengthen the steps of the volunteer lifecycle by improving the recruitment process, updating onboarding materials as needed, and/or finding new ways to keep the volunteers engaged

Qualifications:

• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Desire to motivate, inspire, and guide volunteers
• Ability to work independently and on a team
• Passion for public education, knowledge-sharing, and global issues
• Commitment to the Observatory’s mission and values

Preferred Skills:

• Experience building positive relationships with a diverse group of individuals
• Proficiency with Google Workspace and Asana or other project management software
• Ability to communicate with internal team members and external partners

Benefits:

• Opportunity to contribute to a high-impact, mission-driven project
• A collaborative, inclusive virtual volunteer community
• Professional development through meaningful, hands-on experience
• Enhance your resume and build professional connections
• Networking opportunities within the media and journalism industry
• Opportunity to work with a diverse and passionate team
• Learn about a wide range of topics
• Secure recommendations for prospective employers
• Flexible hours to fit your schedule
• Credits for students

If you’re excited about using your communication and management talents to make knowledge more accessible and empower public understanding, we’d love to hear from you. We encourage you to apply for a Volunteer Coordinator position at the Observatory.

Apply today and help build the future of free public knowledge.

How to Apply:

To apply, send a brief cover letter and resume to Observatory co-founder Reynard Loki . We look forward to welcoming you to our growing team!