Community Engagement Coordinator

Job Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic Community Engagement Coordinator to serve as a vital link between our organization and the communities we serve. In this role, you will develop and implement strategic outreach initiatives, foster meaningful relationships, and promote active community participation. Your energy and passion will drive engagement efforts that amplify our mission, enhance community connections, and support organizational growth. This paid position offers an exciting opportunity to make a tangible impact through innovative community programs and effective communication.

About TreesUpstate

TreesUpstate is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2005. Our mission is to plant, promote, and protect trees throughout Upstate South Carolina. With more than 60,000 trees planted and given away, our vision is a sustainable urban forest that enhances the aesthetic, economic, environmental and social well-being of our community.
Learn more at www.TreesUpstate.org.

Position Summary

Supervised by the Deputy Executive Director, the Community Engagement Coordinator will manage volunteers, volunteer and education programs, and secure planting spots through community outreach and engagement. Leads the Adopt-a-Tree, Tree Captain, and Tree Keepers programs. Coordinates volunteers for planting events, neighborhood canvassing, giveaways, and the Annual Turkey Day Run. The Community Engagement Coordinator will be an enthusiastic problem-solver, a relationship builder, and a passionate advocate for environmental justice and tree equity.

Work Schedule

Monday through Friday, 40 hours/week

Weekend (Saturday) work is required and is consistent during planting seasons; schedule flexibility is expected.

Core Responsibilities

• Lead outreach and relationship-building in priority areas, including underserved neighborhoods, schools, community centers, and local nonprofits. TreesUpstate’s goal is to plant 30% of our trees in low-to-moderate-income areas.
• Represent TreesUpstate at community meetings, outreach events, and volunteer days.
• Liaison between community partners and the forestry staff to plan and execute volunteer staffing for tree planting projects and giveaways.
• Recruit and engage volunteers; manage communication, training, and appreciation efforts.
• Lead volunteer canvassing and outreach efforts in designated neighborhoods.
• Communicate and steward all volunteers, ensuring that they show up for events and have a great experience.
• Working with the marketing lead, take photos and gather stories of volunteers to share with the team and public.
• Work with the public and community leaders and the Director of Corporate Partnerships to find planting spots for 30+ TreesUpstate planting events annually.
• Update volunteer calendars, post events and guest lists, and ensure liability waivers are signed.
• Set up ongoing tree education programming through our Tree Keepers program, taught by our forestry team and other specialized volunteers.
• Manage and build our Tree Captains program. Tree Captains are neighborhood champions who are ambassadors for tree plantings within their community, conduct neighborhood canvassing, and provide educational programming to schools and clubs.
• Use our CRM (Neon One) and tracking software (Tree-Plotter) to manage all aspects of volunteering, site acquisition, and volunteer programs, including adopt-a-tree which is our volunteer-led tree care program.
• Track metrics for grants as assigned such as Arbor Day Foundation and Duke Energy Foundation grants and provide timely impact data.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental studies, education, social sciences, nonprofit management, or a related field
• At least 2 years of experience in community engagement, outreach, and public programming.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a hybrid office/remote setting.
• Demonstrated understanding of equity and inclusion in environmental or community-based work
• Valid Driver’s License and clean driving record
• Familiar with Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Forms, etc.)
• Able to perform manual labor outdoors in varying weather conditions (heat, rain, snow)
• Physically capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs and performing repetitive tasks such as bending and stooping
• Willing and able to work around common environmental risks (e.g., insects, pollen, poison ivy)

Preferred Skills

• Bilingual (Spanish/English)
• Knowledge of Southeastern U.S. tree species and/or urban forestry best practices
• Familiarity with tree care standards and safety practices

Equal Employment Opportunity

TreesUpstate is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status. We firmly believe that merit is a critical factor in our decision-making processes. We are committed to ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to succeed based on their skills, qualifications, and contributions. We recognize that merit goes hand-in-hand with creating an environment where individuals from all backgrounds are supported and given equal access to opportunities for growth and advancement.

Statement of Purpose:

This document provides descriptive information about the above job description. Work performed by incumbents in this position may vary. Although this document may be used for recruiting, staffing, or career planning, the information contained herein should only be used as a guideline or recommendation for the content and qualifications for this position. An individual’s ability to meet the qualifications and capabilities described in this document is not a guarantee of employment or promotion. TreesUpstate reserves the right to make changes to this document as deemed necessary without providing advance written notice.

Join us as a Community Engagement Coordinator if you’re passionate about building vibrant communities through strategic outreach, relationship management, and innovative engagement initiatives!

Pay: $47,500.00 - $52,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Professional development assistance

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Greenville, SC 29607