Position Description

Detailed and accurate volunteer Position Descriptions (PDs) help achieve a number of results apart from the obvious one of assisting prospective volunteers to decide if they want to apply for a position.

Smaller CSOs may not have developed PDs of their own and if not, a call to the local Volunteer Resource Centre or referring to some of the numerous resources available should be of assistance. VIEW SAMPLES 

PDs are often changed as the role develops and the volunteer’s experience level increases.   For this reason an annual review of the PD is encouraged. This will also simplify the replacement process should a vacancy occur.

PDs help to: 

  • Draw the lines between roles (both paid & unpaid)
  • Reassure those who might feel vulnerable or uncertain of their own situations
  • Communicate the expectations associated with the role
  • Establish standards
  • Identify training needs
  • Demonstrate how the volunteer will contribute to the overall aims of the CSO.

The PD should include some of the following components:

 

Organisation Name  
Name of the Position  
Position Description A one or two sentence description of what the position entails, including why it is important, who it deals with, other roles within the CSO that it relates to, what it will achieve, etc
Summary of Tasks A brief summary of the main tasks that are likely to be undertaken
Commitment Required Clear statement of minimum and maximum requirements
Times Needed and Location Hours and days required
Skills Required  Both general and specific 
Orientation and Training What training and orientation is provided
Line of Communication Who will show the volunteer what to do? Who will they report to?
Benefits This should answer the volunteer’s ‘what’s in it for me’ question. Details should be given about expense reimbursement, training provided, experience to be gained and what the role might lead to (if applicable)
Challenges A clear list of potential difficulties should minimise future misunderstandings
Contact Details Should include the closing date for applications and an email address in addition to the postal address