How do I Become a Field Coordinator?

The requirements to become a field coordinator will vary depending upon your industry, and the company or organization that you wish to be employed with. Generally, the job requires a combination of years of experience within a specific field, experience in a leadership role within an organization, and an undergraduate degree. Field coordinators are usually employed by non-profit groups, non-governmental organizations, and humanitarian outreach programs. Traditional businesses that hire field and events coordinators include health care companies and private utility firms.

Experience working within an industry is necessary to become a field coordinator, as the job requires both technical knowledge and networking capabilities. A coordinator connects an organization both to the public and with other related groups, and cultivating these connections typically takes time working directly within a field. Field coordinators may gain this type of experience working first within the industry in other capacities, such as in fund-raising or working underneath an experienced coordinator. The nature of the work of field coordinators, and the type of work conducted by the programs that hire them, usually lends itself to individuals who are passionate about the group's purpose and goals. This is not always the case, however, and there are businesses that hire coordinators to manage field operations based upon the individual's track record as a field coordinator and networking abilities, and do not rely as much upon industry experience.

Teamwork and leadership are vital skills required to succeed as a field coordinator, as coordinators manage other individuals within an organization towards a goal as well as supervise public events. Communication abilities are also important, as field coordinators function as a bridge between like minded groups, and need to be able to accurately convey intentions to both the public and within the organizations themselves. Planning methods and logistics management techniques are also necessary to become a field coordinator, as the job description typically involves administering budget data and personnel scheduling. Field coordinators should also be familiar with public relations and marketing strategies, which both help convey a program's purpose and promote individual events.

It is usually necessary to be proficient in basic computer use to become a field coordinator. For budgeting and finance responsibilities, coordinators may need to know how to use accounting tools and software. Education requirements will depend on the company, and can be supplemented by years of experience. If you are interested in becoming a field coordinator, one way to start gaining experience is to volunteer with causes and groups that you personally support. Beyond non-profit work, coordinators are employed by businesses to administer and manage field operations conducted by multiple employees.