Volunteer Programs & Education Director

Benefits:

• Life insurance
• 403(b) plan
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

About Lions Tigers & Bears

Lions Tigers & Bears is a federally and state-licensed nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to providing a haven for rescued exotic animals and educating the public about the dangers of the exotic animal trade. Located on a 93-acre ranch in Alpine, California, the organization provides lifetime care for lions, tigers, bears, and other rescued animals that have been abandoned, abused, or confiscated from illegal situations.

Founded in 2002, Lions Tigers & Bears has grown into a nationally recognized sanctuary and advocacy organization working to end the exploitation and private ownership of exotic animals. Through responsible rescue, high-quality animal care, community education, and legislative advocacy, the organization seeks to create a world where wild animals live free from abuse and exploitation.

Lions Tigers & Bears operates as a mission-driven organization with a passionate team committed to animal welfare, public education, and donor stewardship. The organization’s fundraising efforts are essential to sustaining animal care operations, sanctuary expansion, educational programs, and advocacy initiatives.

Position Summary

The Director of Volunteers & Education is responsible for leading and managing the Lions Tigers & Bears volunteer program, which includes more than 100 active volunteers who support daily sanctuary operations, events, educational programs, and community outreach. This role oversees volunteer recruitment, onboarding, training, scheduling, and engagement while ensuring that volunteer activities align with the organization’s mission and operational needs.

Reporting to the Director of Marketing and working collaboratively with the Founder, the Director of Volunteers & Education works closely with staff across departments to ensure volunteers are effectively integrated into sanctuary operations. The role also oversees the organization’s internship program, supports educational visits, and assists with staffing volunteers for fundraising and outreach events.

This is a full-time, onsite position (Tuesday-Saturday) based at the Lions Tigers & Bears sanctuary in Alpine, California. The role requires strong organizational and leadership skills, a passion for volunteer engagement, and the ability to cultivate a welcoming and mission-driven volunteer culture.

Position Duties and Responsibilities

Volunteer Program Leadership

The Director of Volunteers & Education manages and develops the organization’s volunteer program, which includes recruiting, onboarding, training, and scheduling volunteers to support daily sanctuary activities. The role ensures that volunteers are well-trained, informed about organizational policies and safety procedures, and prepared to contribute effectively to Lions Tigers & Bears’ operations. The Director of Volunteers & Education also works to enhance volunteer engagement by identifying opportunities for growth, education, and leadership within the volunteer community.

Volunteer Recruitment, Training, and Retention

The position leads volunteer recruitment efforts and oversees the onboarding process for new volunteers. This includes conducting orientation sessions that introduce volunteers to the history, mission, policies, and safety procedures of Lions Tigers & Bears.

The Director also develops and implements training and educational opportunities that help volunteers expand their skills and take on additional responsibilities. Maintaining consistent communication with volunteers and fostering a supportive environment are key priorities to ensure long-term volunteer retention.

Internship and Educational Programs

The Director oversees the organization’s internship program and supports educational initiatives hosted at the sanctuary. This includes coordinating educational visits and ensuring volunteers are prepared to support visitor experiences.

The role works to expand learning opportunities for volunteers and interns while ensuring educational programming reflects the mission and values of Lions Tigers & Bears.

Volunteer Scheduling and Operations…