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Volunteer job description template (free)
Updated September 2026
A volunteer job description covers seven things: a title, why the role matters, the tasks, the time, the place, what it takes, and how to sign up. Copy the free template below, or get it as a Word file.
Why it matters: [One or two sentences on the impact of this role.]
What you'll do: [Plain-language list of the main tasks.]
When and how often: [Day and time, how long, one-time or ongoing. For example, 2 hours every Saturday.]
Where: [Location, or "remote."]
What it takes: [Skills, or "no experience needed." Any waiver, background check, or age minimum.]
To sign up: [Link or contact name and email.]
What a good volunteer role description includes
- A clear title, "Saturday Pantry Driver," not "Volunteer."
- One or two sentences on why the role matters.
- What they'll actually do, in plain terms.
- Time commitment, how long, how often, one-time or ongoing.
- Where it happens, and whether it's remote-friendly.
- What it takes: skills or requirements (a driver's license, comfort lifting, a background check).
- Who to contact and how to sign up.
Keep it short and honest
Aim for something a busy person can read in under a minute. Don't oversell. Being upfront about the lifting, the hours, or the background check saves everyone a bad match. The clearer the ask, the better the sign-ups.
The Ember tool for thisEmber Volunteers
Post each role's shifts once in Ember Volunteers and share one sign-up link. Volunteers sign themselves up, and everyone lands in the same place. Unlimited users on every tier.
This is general information, not legal advice. Volunteer roles carry rules of their own. Check with an attorney before requiring background checks or setting an age minimum.