Volunteer Coordinator

Job Title:

Volunteer CoordinatorNational Fried Chicken Festival presented by Raising Canes

Location:

New Orleans, LA (On-site during festival production period)

Job Type:

Contract | Temporary (Festival Season)

About Us:

Founded in 2016 in New Orleans, the National Fried Chicken Festival (FCF), presented by Raising Cane’s, is a two-day outdoor celebration that draws thousands from across the country to savor the best in food, music, and culture. Named the sixth Best Specialty Food Festival in the nation by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards in 2024, FCF has cemented its place as one of America's must-attend culinary events.

Position Overview:

We’re seeking a detail-oriented Volunteer Coordinator to recruit, train, and manage our volunteer team. You’ll maintain our volunteer database, match individuals to roles that fit their skills, and ensure clear communication and scheduling. This role works closely with Operations, Technical, Food, Entertainment, and Public Safety leads to ensure a smooth festival experience.

The ideal candidate is organized, proactive, and passionate about creating a positive, purpose-driven environment for our volunteers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise volunteers

• Collect volunteer information and maintain updated databases

• Track volunteer hours and benefits

• Match volunteers with roles that suit their skills

• Use email, outreach, and partnerships to expand volunteer network

• Draft training materials, codes of conduct, and operating procedures

• Organize volunteer orientations and coordinate on-site assignments

• Manage Volunteer Check-In Tent during the festival

• Provide on-site volunteer support and troubleshoot issues as needed

• Draft and distribute thank-you messages to all volunteers

• Collaborate with festival department heads including Production, Food, Public Safety, Marketing, and Sponsorship

• Contribute to the post-festival wrap report and maintain inventory records

Desired Qualifications

• Experience in volunteer coordination or festival operations

• Strong communication, organization & leadership skills

• Creative, flexible, and solutions-oriented mindset

• Proficiency in MS Office, Google Suite, Zoom, Dropbox, Slack, Social Tables

• Proficiency in managing volunteer databases or scheduling tools (e.g., SignUpGenius, Google Sheets, Airtable)

• Must be comfortable working independently and as part of a team

• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record

• Comfortable driving/parking a utility van or truck

• Must be 21+ and thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure event environment

Preferred:

• Previous experience coordinating volunteers at large-scale events or festivals

• Knowledge of volunteer and accessibility procedures

• A passion for community engagement and positive volunteer experiences

• CPR/First Aid certified is a plus

Schedule:

• Must be available for:

• Pre-event site visits and planning meetings/calls

• One Festival load-in day

• All festival operating days (full-time on-site)

• Schedule subject to change based on festival needs

Compensation:

Competitive flat-rate contract based on experience. Meals, Merchandise, Complementary Tickets and festival credentials included.

To Apply

Send your resume and a brief message about your interest to: [email protected]