Home / Resources / Volunteer job description template
Updated August 2026
A vague "we need help" gets vague results. A clear volunteer role — what, when, and for whom — brings in the right people. Here's what to include, plus a template to copy.
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: [Day/time, how often, one-time or ongoing.]
Where: [Location, or "remote."]
Time commitment: [e.g., 2 hours, weekly.]
Good fit if you: [Skills, requirements, or "no experience needed."]
Requirements: [Waiver, background check, age minimum — if any.]
To sign up: [Link or contact name and email.]
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 thisPost each role once in Ember Volunteers — with the time, skills, and shift details — and share one link people sign up through in a couple of taps.
A clear title, why the role matters, the tasks, the time commitment, the location, any requirements, and how to sign up.
Short — under a minute to read. A busy person should grasp what, when, and for whom at a glance.
For anything beyond a one-off, yes. A clear role makes it easier for the right people to say yes — and cuts down on confusion later.
Ember brings your programs, grants, volunteers, and donors into one place — built only for nonprofits, with a free plan and no credit card.
No credit card · No trial clock · Unlimited users included
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.