Volunteer Board Director

Location: Greater Victoria, BC
Term: Two-year term (elected)
Reports to: President of the Board
Supports: Executive, Directors, and Staff

About This Opportunity
Serving on the Board of Rocky Point Bird Observatory is a meaningful way to contribute your skills, curiosity, and perspective to a respected local organization working in bird research, monitoring, and public education. This role is well suited to people who care about birds and community and who are interested in learning how a nonprofit board functions. Prior board experience is not required. New directors are supported and mentored by experienced board members in a collaborative, welcoming environment.  If you are thoughtful, reliable, and motivated to make a positive contribution, we would love to hear from you.

What You’ll Do as a Board Director
Rocky Point Bird Observatory (RPBO) is a volunteer-driven charitable organization dedicated to bird conservation through research, monitoring, and public education. Our work helps deepen understanding of bird populations and inspires people to care for and protect the natural world. As a Director-at-Large, you will work alongside fellow board members to help guide the organization in alignment with RPBO’s mission and strategic priorities. Board members contribute at a level that fits their skills and availability, with support from fellow directors.  The responsibilities include:

• Participating in board meetings and contributing to thoughtful discussion and decision-making
• Supporting RPBO programs, projects, and events in ways that align with your interests and strengths
• Serving on at least one committee, project, or event each year
• Helping promote RPBO’s work within the community
• Attending the Annual General Meeting
• Visiting the RPBO banding station during your first year to better understand our work
• Attendance at special events and fundraising activities is encouraged but flexible.

“This was my first time serving on a board, and I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was welcomed right away and supported by experienced directors who were generous with their time and knowledge. It’s been a rewarding way to learn and contribute to something I care about.”
— RPBO Board Member

Time Commitment
The board values realistic expectations and open communication about availability.

• A two year elected term
• Regular board meetings (frequency communicated in advance)
• Some additional time for committee work or special projects

Who We’re Looking For
We welcome board members from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You do not need to be a bird expert — curiosity and willingness to learn are valued. Ideal candidates are people who:

• Believe in the importance of bird monitoring and conservation
• Enjoy working collaboratively and respectfully with others
• Are willing to ask questions, learn, and contribute
• Follow through on commitments
• Bring diverse perspectives, skills, and lived experience
• Are interested in becoming more involved in the local community

“Serving on the RPBO board has been a chance to apply my governance experience in a thoughtful, mission-driven organization. The board values preparation, respectful discussion, and mentoring — it’s been genuinely rewarding.”
— RPBO Board Member

Skills & Experience (Assets, Not Requirements)
Experience in any of the following areas is helpful but not required:

• Education or teaching
• Human resources
• Law (especially charity or nonprofit law)
• Nonprofit or volunteer organizations
• Communications, marketing, or public relations
• Fund development or finance
• Office administration
• Leadership, mentorship, or governance
• Stewardship or conservation
• Previous board experience

Support & Onboarding
New board members are supported through:

• Orientation and onboarding
• Opportunities to learn alongside experienced directors
• A collaborative, respectful board culture
• Clear expectations and guidance in your first year

Interested?
If you’re curious and would like to learn more, we encourage you to reach out for a conversation — even if you’re unsure whether board service is right for you.   volunteer@rpbo.org