Position Function:
The Volunteer Development Specialist will provide leadership to MSU 4-H volunteer programs across the state.
Salary Grade: 15
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
This position will be located in the Center for 4-H Youth Development in Starkville, MS.
Area of Specialization:
Volunteer Development
Anticipated Appointment Date:
August 2024.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Recruit, train, and supervise new volunteers.
• Collect volunteer information, background screening, and maintain an up-to-date database.
• Use tech tools such as associated software, e-mail, social media, and volunteer databases to enhance communication.
• Provide statewide leadership for volunteer education and recognition.
• Provide statewide leadership and professional development programming related to the recruitment of diverse volunteers and volunteers for under-served populations, volunteer development, and volunteer management.
• Keep new and existing volunteers informed about 4-H Youth Development and volunteer opportunities.
• Match volunteers to opportunities that suit their skill sets, and ensure they understand their responsibilities and receive the proper training.
• Organize training and lead on-the-job training.
• Keep schedules and records of volunteers' work.
• Prepare operating procedures to uphold the values of MSU-ES.
• Ensure the Mission and vision of MS 4-H is conveyed in volunteer recruitment.
• Collaborate with Center Head for Extension Center for 4-H Youth Development, Regional Extension Coordinators, Extension Specialists, and County agents to proactively address volunteerism issues.
• Promote 4-H Volunteer Programs through traditional and social media, fundraising events, and other statewide opportunities.
• Build networks linking MSU-ES 4-H Youth Development and broader volunteer organizations as well as corporate partnerships.
• Expand the reach and visibility of MSU-ES 4-H Programs through increasing the number and diversity of volunteers.
• Build capacity of existing Extension agents and program staff in the areas of volunteerism and volunteer management to improve their effectiveness.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Family and Consumer Science, Education or a related field.
Experience: Three (3) years experience working in a youth development organization.
Licensures:
*Must have a valid driver's license and be willing to travel locally, statewide, and nationally if necessary.
*Must pass a background check.
Rank and salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Preferred Qualifications:
1. A Masters or PhD or EdD or equivalent years' experience in volunteer management, communication, agricultural business, or a related field. Degrees in other disciplines will be considered for candidates with proven experience in volunteer management.
2. Skills in providing web-based learning.
3. Knowledge of the procurement of extramural funding and grant writing expertise.
4. Experience working with youth development, especially 4-H.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Technological literacy including the ability to learn new software and technology as well as a working knowledge of databases, and social media.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Excellent organization and team-building skills.
Ability to work irregular hours, evenings, and weekends with occasional overnight travel.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
• No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
• Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
• Considerable physical activity. Requires heavy physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects up to 50 pounds. Physical work is a primary part (more than 70%) of job.
• Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Must complete online application; submit a current resume or curriculum vitae, a letter of application or cover letter, three references, and a current unofficial transcript. Any social security numbers included on transcripts should be removed prior to online submission.
Screening Date:
July 25, 2024, until filled.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, gender identity, status as a U.S. veteran, and/or any other status protected by applicable law. We always welcome nominations and applications from women, members of any minority group, and others who share our passion for building a diverse community that reflects the diversity in our student population.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
