Clear job descriptions are a key element both when recruiting and managing volunteers. Communicating expectations well help volunteers understand what their responsibilities will be, and assess whether they can commit to the position or not. This avoids confusion and mix-ups in the long run.
Tasks and jobs for church volunteers
Tasks refer to specific activities or duties that volunteers perform as part of their overall volunteer role. These are individual assignments or responsibilities that contribute to the larger objectives of a particular volunteering position or job.
Jobs, on the other hand, encompass the entire volunteering position or role that a volunteer undertakes within the church community. Jobs are more comprehensive and encompass multiple tasks that contribute to the overall functioning of the church.
A broader job would be functioning as a Sunday School Teacher. A specific task would be to prepare and deliver a Bible lesson in Sunday School this upcoming week.
Volunteers can be recruited to long-term jobs, or short-term tasks can be rotated between existing volunteers. The choice really depends on the volunteer strategy chosen by the church.
How to write church volunteer task and job descriptions
A descriptive title
Each position and opportunity should have a clear and descriptive title. Avoid using jargon or complicated language. This is especially important when you’re addressing a wider community who has not volunteered before.
✅ Job title examples: “Sunday School Teacher,” “Hospitality Greeter,” “Youth Group Leader.”
✅ Task title examples: Example: “Greeting and Ushering,” “Preparing Communion,” “Event Setup and Cleanup.”
Clear purpose
It is good to explain the purpose of the role, and communicate its significance within the church community.
✅ Job purpose example: “As a Sunday School Teacher, you will play a crucial role in nurturing the spiritual growth of our young members. “
✅ Task purpose example: “As a Greeting volunteer, you will play a vital role in creating a welcoming environment for our church members and visitors.”
Transparent responsibilities
Outlining the volunteer role and responsibilities should be as specific as possible to set clear expectations. You don’t have to go into administrative details here. But make sure not to add any surprise tasks to the workload after a volunteer accepts their role.
✅ Job responsibilities example:
- Prepare and deliver age-appropriate lessons for the assigned age group.
- Facilitate discussions and encourage active participation during Sunday School sessions.
- Ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all children, promoting positive behavior and respectful interactions.
✅ Task responsibilities example:
- Welcome and greet attendees as they arrive for services or events.
- Distribute bulletins or informational materials.
- Assist in finding seats for latecomers and those with special needs.
- Collect offerings or donations discreetly during the service.
- Provide assistance and answer questions from attendees.
Realistic time commitment
Clearly state the expected time commitment, including the frequency and duration of volunteer service.
✅ Job commitment example:: This role requires a commitment of half a day each month. The class takes place every third Sunday of the month, and runs from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. You will need to prepare the space beforehand, and close up after. Other occasional preparation work can be done during the week.
✅ Task commitment example: Greeting and Ushering volunteers are needed for each Sunday service. You should arrive 30 minutes before the service starts.
Necessary qualifications
When you need the volunteer to be qualified, specify the required skills and experience. It is good practice to outline the process and timeline of selecting a suitable volunteer from the candidates. This will make it clear that you’re not accepting the first application. It will also create a sense of urgency to apply before your deadline.
✅ Job qualification example:
- Must be a committed member of our church congregation.
- Strong knowledge of biblical principles and the ability to communicate them effectively to young children.
- Preferrably previous experience working with children or in a teaching capacity.
- We will get in touch with a shortlist of suitable candidates by August 7.
✅ Task qualification example:
- No previous experience is required
- Should be friendly, approachable, and willing to serve
How to apply
Clearly state the process for applying to the volunteer position, including whom to contact in case of additional questions. Even when you’re reaching out to existing volunteers, they should still know who is their supervisor for the task. It is important that they have a contact person for any questions or issues.
✅ Job application example: “To apply, please fill in the following form (link to form). You will be asked about your relevant experience and why you would like to serve as a Sunday School Teacher. With further questions, contact (Name) at (Email).”
✅ Task application example: “To sign up as a Greeting and Ushering volunteer, click on the “Sign up” button in our volunteer management environment. All Sunday volunteers are coordinated by (Name).With any questions, cancellations or other issues, contact her directly with a message through the system.”
How we can help
Zelos is a a simple environment for managing volunteer signups. If you’re looking for an easy way to distribute tasks in your community, sign up for a free project. If you’d like more assistance with getting started, get in touch with our team for a personal demo.