Developing position descriptions for volunteers

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Abstract

A well-conceived and well-written volunteer position description not only outlines responsibilities, support, and benefits of specific volunteer opportunities, it also strengthens recruitment efforts because it defines the assignment, skills, abilities, and interests necessary to perform the task successfully. Additionally, clearly defined position descriptions are the basis for fair and equitable performance evaluations. This effective practice, shared by Hands On Network in winter 2006, outlines the elements you'll need to include in writing a position description.

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Issue

Once program managers have determined the roles volunteers need to fill, volunteer position descriptions should be created for each role.

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Action

According to Hands On Network, a volunteer position description should include the following components:
  • Title: Provide a descriptive title that gives the volunteer a sense of identity. This will also help program staff and other volunteers understand the assigned role.
  • Purpose/objective: Use no more than two sentences to describe the specific purpose of the position. If possible, state the purpose in relation to the nonprofit's mission and goals.
  • Location: Describe where the person will be working.
  • Key responsibilities: List the position's major responsibilities. Clearly define what the volunteer is expected to do as part of this assignment.
  • Qualifications: Clearly list education, experience, knowledge, skills, and age requirements. Also note if the opportunity is accessible to people with disabilities. If a background check is required, it should be indicated here.
  • Time commitment: Note the length of the assignment, hours per week, and/or other special requirements.
  • Training/support provided: Define the nature and length of all general and position-specific training required for the assignment. Also list resources and other support available to the volunteer.
  • Benefits: Describe benefits available to volunteers, such as lunch provided during service, T-shirt or other apparel, or development opportunities.
  • Volunteer supervisor and contact information: List the staff person or volunteer leader who will be working most directly with the volunteer and his/her contact information.

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Context

Hands On Network is a Corporation for National and Community Service training and technical assistance provider. Through training and technical assistance, Hands On brings extensive expertise in leveraging volunteers to national service programs.

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Posted On

May 7, 2007

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For More Information

Lori Jean Mantooth
Hands On Network
600 Means Street, Suite 210
Atlanta, GE 30318
Phone: (404) 979-2938
Fax: (404) 972-2901

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Resources

This effective practice is number nine in a series on volunteer leveraging from the Hands On Network. To read the next practice in the series, see "Using a project calendar to help with scheduling volunteers ."

See the previous effective practices in the series:

For more information, see the following resources from Hands On Network:

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