Title:  Volunteer Coordinator

• Permanent, part-time opportunity
• Volunteer Leadership & Support
• Visitor Engagement & Relationship Management
• Administration, Training & Programme Coordination

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

We’re looking for an experienced and motivated Volunteer Coordinator to lead the daily delivery of Auckland Zoo’s Volunteer Programme in this part-time role (32 hours per week). This position is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day coordination and leadership of volunteers, ensuring their work adds real value to the Zoo’s visitor experience and wider operations. You’ll manage and support a team of around 15–20 volunteers each day, guiding them to confidently engage with visitors while also assisting Animal Care, Conservation, and other Zoo teams. The role also plays a key part in recruiting, training, rostering, and supporting volunteers, while contributing to the ongoing development of volunteer programmes, resources, and recognition initiatives. 

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the daily operations of the Zoo’s Volunteer Programme, including managing rosters, training, records, and volunteer performance.
• Supporting engaging visitor experiences by coordinating volunteer-led activities and ensuring volunteers are well prepared to interact with guests.
• Overseeing volunteer recruitment, induction, training, and wellbeing while fostering a positive and supportive volunteer culture.
• Building strong relationships across Zoo teams and coordinating volunteer involvement in events, programmes, and special projects.

Click this link to access the Position Description

He kōrero mōu: About you

This role requires strong people and coordination skills, with the ability to build positive relationships, coach and support volunteers, and manage performance where needed. You’ll bring excellent communication and networking abilities, along with sound judgement to listen, empathise, and provide constructive guidance. Strong administrative and organisational capability is essential, including confidence using Microsoft Office tools such as Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. The role also requires someone who is comfortable working independently, able to drive positive change, and physically active enough to move around the zoo supporting volunteers throughout the day.

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• A Diploma-level qualification in teaching, adult learning, social sciences, or related practical experience (preferred).
• At least 12 months’ leadership experience, with confidence working in a sole-charge environment.
• Experience in adult learning environments, including coaching, mentoring, and training.
• Strong background in visitor engagement, customer service, and relationship management within complex work environments. 

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

This is a permanent, part-time opportunity, working 32 hours a week. Note that this role includes some evening and weekend work, which may include public holidays as required.  We offer a competitive remuneration package, generous holiday allowance, and the pleasure of working in an award-winning Zoo. You will also have access to the full range of Tātaki Auckland Council benefits – we have a range of discounts and deals with corporate suppliers which cover financial services, health, retail and hospitality discounts to name a few. We're a hard-working, close-knit team that are passionate about Auckland Zoo’s mission to build a future for wildlife and wild places, and we’re looking for like-minded individuals that share our values.

Apply now via our careers site or using the button below, and ensure you attach a bespoke covering letter that is written for this position. We want to know why you're interested in this role and what makes you a great fit!

For more information on Auckland Zoo, please visit https://www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/ and reach out to discoveryandlearning@aucklandzoo.co.nz if you have any questions.

Application close Sunday 22 March 2026

Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.