Position Information Posting Detail Information
Working Position Title: Assistant Director of Volunteer Engagement Position Number: 00004715 Open Date: 02262026 Close Date: 03312026 Priority Review Date: 03312026 Employee Class: Staff Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-Time FTE: 1.00 Position Status: Regular FLSA Exempt: Yes Job Code: 1040SPS03 Union Representation: Non-Union Union Code: NA Unit/Department: Alumni Services College Unit: Alumni Services Division University Advancement: Location: BARSM ALUM Link to Department Website or Custom Search Page: https://foundation.myniu.com
Position Summary
Are you ready to be the spark that ignites a global network of alumni passion? We are looking for a high-energy strategic and relational Assistant Director to act as a primary support for our alumni volunteer ecosystem. In this role, you wont just connect alumni to volunteer activities-you will build a movement. As a key leader in planning and executing volunteer opportunities and creating and sustaining a thriving volunteer pipeline, you will be the face of engagement" transforming simple inquiries into lifelong commitments of service. Whether you are busy implementing high-impact volunteer opportunities, recruiting at engagement events, or digital-first networking, youll be the catalyst that connects alumni back to the heart of the University.
The Skills You Bring to the Table
We are looking for a proactive leader who balances charisma with meticulous attention to detail. To thrive in this position, you will need:
• Strong communication skills are vital as you will act as a key liaison between volunteers and campus partners fostering seamless collaboration across the University. • Unwavering Integrity: You consistently behave in a manner that meets the institutions high ethical standards, particularly when handling sensitive donor and constituent data. • A People-First" Mindset: You are energized by responding to volunteer interest forms and inquiries, treating every interaction as an opportunity to build a stronger Huskie community. • Collaborative Agility: You will work closely with the Assistant Director for Affinity Groups to harmonize regional and remote volunteer efforts ensuring a unified experience for alumni everywhere.
Position Summary
As a key driver of the alumni volunteer lifecycle, you will focus on day-to-day operations of our many dynamic engagement activities. Working under the oversight of the Director of Alumni Volunteer Engagement, you will own an activity portfolio that changes lives. In this role, your impact will be seen through:
• Strategic Recruitment & Retention: You will intentionally identify, vet, train, and steward alumni volunteers ensuring they feel recognized and retained as lifelong partners. • Data Storytelling: You will be the guardian of our engagement metrics tracking data through our Customer Relationship Management CRM software and collaborating with University Advancement data services to ensure every connection is captured for analysis. • Mission-Driven Communications: Youll help amplify our mission by supporting the Director in drafting and executing compelling marketing materials and communications. • Operational Excellence: You will design and manage multiple volunteer registrations and training programs, always maintaining a sharp eye on financial sustainability and resource efficiency.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Volunteer Engagement & Program Management - 40
Serve as primary manager for assigned volunteer programs ensuring high-quality experiences across the entire volunteer life cycle. Collaborate with campus partners to recruit, vet, place, evaluate, and steward volunteers for assigned activities. Maintain consistent engagement with both prospective and active volunteers to support satisfaction and long-term retention. Design and implement volunteer recognition strategies in collaboration with the Director of Alumni Volunteer Engagement. Develop and deliver volunteer training programs, including content creation, scheduling, and coordination with NIU partners. Draft content, schedule, communications, and manage the creation of marketing collateral in collaboration with the NIU Foundation communications team. On-site coordination of NIU Alumni Association Board and committee meetings.
Volunteer Recruitment & Placement - 30
Plan, execute, and enhance volunteer recruitment strategies to build a robust pipeline across engagement pathways. Match alumni with suitable engagement pathways aligned with their interests, both within and beyond volunteer roles. Attend University and Division events to network with attendees and actively recruit new volunteers. Identify opportunities to cultivate volunteers from engaged alumni populations, such as donors, Emeritus Board members, affinity, regional group members, and alumni travelers. Manage processes for responding to alumni volunteer inquiries, ensuring timely follow-up. Collaborate with the Assistant Director for Affinity Groups to promote and coordinate select regionally based and remote volunteer efforts, including on-site event support. On-site support for signature or large-scale volunteer activities outside of assigned portfolio as needed. Support annual budget planning process and ongoing expense tracking for volunteer program.
Volunteer Data Management & Analysis - 20
Accurately collect, record, and maintain engagement data for all assigned volunteer activities within the CRM. Analyze volunteer engagement data to inform program improvements and strategic planning. Prepare data-driven reports for the NIU Alumni Association Board of Directors in collaboration with the Director. Manage all donor and constituent information with the highest levels of confidentiality and professionalism.
Division of University Advancement Support - 10
Participate in committees created to support Division of University Advancement. Work with graduate assistant and student workers to complete department tasks. Collaborate with both Foundation and University staff and faculty to identify volunteer needs.
Minimum Required Qualifications
Civil Service NA Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): Civil Service NA Specialty Factors: Civil Service NA Preferred Qualifications: Civil Service NA
Minimum Required Qualifications
SPS Bachelors degree or higher from an accredited college or university. Two years of professional experience in development, marketing, volunteer, or program management, or other related fields. Valid drivers license and use of personal transportation.
Additional Requirements
SPS Deep personal commitment to diversity in all forms, the recognition of all individuals to mutual respect, and the acceptance of others without biases. Demonstrable commitment to leading by example, modeling diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the university. Demonstrably strong work ethic and entrepreneurial mentality. A high-level of integrity, focus, and commitment to achieve ambitious goals is essential. Exemplary track record of professionalism, maturity, and discretion in handling confidential and highly sensitive information. Must exhibit a thorough knowledge of Foundation and University policies and procedures. Demonstrated exceptional writing skills, strong oral communication, and group presentation skills. Excellent organizational, supervisory, and mediator skills. High level of productivity and accuracy. Excellent technology skills and the ability to work productively with tools such as spreadsheets and databases. Exceptional interpersonal skills. Extensive calendaring, heavy use of Microsoft Office and Outlook. Extensive knowledge of all Microsoft products, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, OneDrive, and O365. Ability to establish priorities, utilize good judgment under pressure, and flexibility to handle last-minute and unexpected assignments. Function independently with good judgment and initiative. Knowledge of Foundation and University policies and procedures. High-quality mindset with the goal of excellence and a positive, can-do perspective. A flexible attitude and clear ability to modify and adapt as situations. Demonstrated ability to prioritize competing projects and project-manage multiple projects at a time. Ability to exercise discretion and confidentiality.
Preferred Qualifications
SPS One year of experience working within a CRM to track and evaluate data.
Physical Demands and Requirements
Use of a personal vehicle is sometimes required. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to stand for long periods of time, walk, use fingers and hands to feel, grasp, operate, or handle objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms. Must be able to lift and carry 30 lbs regularly and at times for a significant duration.
Appointment and Compensation Details
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: May 1, 2026 Anticipated Appointment End Date: Percent of Staff Year 1.00 Standard Hours Per Week: 37.50 Working Hours: While established University office hours are 8:00 am - 4:30 pm in the office environment, alumni relations work is professionally conducted at times and places consistent with alumni and volunteer availability. Occasional nights and weekends. Salary: $55,000.08 Annually NIU offers a robust benefits package.
Application Procedure
For full consideration, please visit http://employment.niu.edu/postings/90446 to submit the following materials by March 31, 2026:
Required Documents
• Cover Letter: Please include your interest in employment with the NIU Foundation and how your previous experience positions you for success in the role for which you are applying. • Current Resume. • List of Three current Professional References, including name, email address, and phone number. • Transcripts: If applicable, unofficial copies are acceptable for initial review of application. Official copies are required to confirm appointment.
Applications submitted after March 31 are welcomed but will be considered as needed.
Special Instructions
Quick Link to Applicant: http://employment.niu.edu/postings/90446
Is Background Check Required: Yes
EEO Statement
In accordance with applicable statutes and regulations, NIU is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, religion, age, disability, physical and mental marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression, political affiliation, or any other factor unrelated to professional qualifications and will comply with all applicable federal and state statutes, regulations, and orders pertaining to nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action.
The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies:
Ethics and Compliance Officer Title IX Coordinator Health Services Building, Room 230 TitleIXCoordinator@niu.edu 815-753-5560
Visa Policy
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
ADA Accommodation
NIU remains committed to ensuring