Volunteer Engagement Specialist

We’re not your typical non-profit. We bring swagger to everything we do. That means we move with purpose in every step, driven by our commitment to putting our community at the centre of our work. Every day, we ask ourselves to see possibility where others see limits. Because people with Parkinson’s and care partners deserve better. Better care, more inclusive research and access to treatment and supports that make living well possible.

Our culture is ambitious, bold and collaborative. Every role is a chance to spark real change and contribute to lasting impact. If you’re passionate about applying your knowledge, skills and passion to a role that challenges the status quo – we'd love to meet you.

Working at Parkinson Canada is more than just a job—it’s a movement.

At Parkinson Canada, we envision a world where no one is limited by Parkinson’s. Today, more than 120,000 people in Canada are living with this complex and deeply personal condition. We’re inspired every day by the courage and strength of our community. Every individual has their own unique experience with Parkinson’s — no two journeys are alike.

Our mission is to empower and inspire people living with Parkinson’s and their care partners to live fully and courageously. Through community support, advocacy, and research, we encourage others to see a diagnosis not as a dimming of light, but a spark for a new beginning.

Move forward. Together. On Mission.

Job Overview

The Specialist, Volunteer Engagement supports Parkinson Canada’s volunteer community by leading national recruitment, onboarding, recognition, and policy‑related activities. This role strengthens the volunteer experience by coordinating screening, training access, communications, and engagement practices, ensuring volunteers feel welcomed, prepared, and valued across the organization.

What You’ll Be Doing

Volunteer Recruitment and Onboarding

• Lead national recruitment efforts for Parkinson Canada volunteers, including targeted strategies to meet organizational needs.
• Collaborate with the HR team to align effective volunteer recruitment practices.
• Post volunteer opportunities on platforms such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Charity Village, and other relevant channels.
• Conduct phone screens, interviews, reference checks, and police checks as required.
• Manage the volunteer onboarding process, ensuring all mandatory training (e.g., AODA, Violence & Harassment) is completed.
• Ensure volunteers have access to required role‑specific and general training.
• Respond to new volunteer applications and inquiries in a timely, welcoming manner.
• Maintain relationships with community organizations to support diverse and inclusive recruitment pipelines.

Volunteer Engagement, Recognition and Retention

• Collaborate with the HR team to review and assess volunteer engagement practices and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with the Manager, Peer Support & Volunteer Engagement to support volunteer retention and recognition initiatives across the organization.
• Review and enhance volunteer recognition practices to ensure they are meaningful and inclusive.
• Apply EDIJ-aligned approaches within volunteer engagement activities and maintain awareness of best practices to support equitable recruitment and retention.

Volunteer Policies and Standards

• Work with the HR team to review and update volunteer policies, including the Volunteer Handbook.
• Communicate policy updates to staff and volunteers in a clear and accessible manner.
• Provide guidance to staff on volunteer‑related policy alignment.

Volunteer Administration and Support

• Maintain accurate and organized digital volunteer files and records.
• Monitor and respond to inquiries sent to the volunteer@ inbox.
• Track and file volunteer information, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with organizational standards.
• Provide general support to volunteers and staff on volunteer engagement processes.

Digital Tools and Data Support

• Respond to new volunteer profiles and applications submitted through the volunteer engagement platform.
• Provide volunteer‑focused training and resources on the volunteer engagement platform (volunteer‑facing only).
• Support the collection of volunteer‑related data for reporting purposes.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Post-secondary education in a related field is an asset.
• Certificate in Volunteer Management or related training is an asset.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 3-4 years’ experience in volunteer coordination, volunteer management, or HR-related engagement within a nonprofit or community-based setting.
• Experience supporting volunteer recruitment, onboarding, retention, and recognition.
• Experience collaborating with volunteer managers and supporting volunteer training and engagement.
• Experience using volunteer engagement platforms or nonprofit CRM systems.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with volunteers, staff, and community partners.
• Ability to coordinate screening, onboarding, and engagement activities with attention to detail.
• Ability to apply equity, diversity, inclusion, and justice (EDIJ) principles to volunteer engagement.
• Strong judgment, problem‑solving skills, and the ability to set priorities.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and respect for confidentiality.
• Willingness to learn about Parkinson's disease and the needs of the Parkinson's community.
• Proficient computer skills, including Office 365, volunteer engagement platforms, databases, and virtual communication tools.

If you’re ready to make a meaningful difference for people living with Parkinson’s—and want a role with real impact and room to grow—this role is for you.

Please note this position is for an existing vacancy

Parkinson Canada is committed to providing an inclusive, barrier‑free experience for applicants. Accommodations are available upon request throughout the recruitment, selection, and assessment process. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Please note that the successful candidate will be required to complete a standard Criminal Record Check.