Frequently asked questions

All volunteering roles are advertised on the find a role section of our website and promoted through channels such as Member News, LinkedIn and IChemE Connect. The range of opportunities means that you can find what best suits you in terms of commitment, the type of activity and the induction and training required.

If the role you are interested in is not listed in current opportunities please still get in touch with the volunteering team. Some roles are recruited for at specific times of the year and we may be able to register your interest to contact you again when the role is available. The volunteer team may also be able to suggest alternative roles that you would be suitable for.

For most of our volunteering roles, there is a requirement to be an IChemE member. There are some exceptions to this, so always read the person specification on the volunteer role descriptor for more information.

We encourage all members to get involved. Using technology and sensitivity to time zones, most of our roles can be undertaken from anywhere in the world. Geographic location, for the most part, is not a barrier; however, internet access with good connection speed will be required.

All volunteers will have a designated staff member and/or lead volunteer (such as a committee chair) for guidance and support. All volunteers receive a copy of the volunteer handbook, and have access to our volunteer area on IChemE Connect which hosts a library of helpful resources and provides a networking space where you can interact with other IChemE volunteers. Contact our volunteer team who will assist you at any point in your volunteering.

Volunteers will be given induction and training appropriate to their role. For some roles all you need to do is join in and get going. Others require specialist training, in which case there will be extra support to help you navigate our systems or processes. This may be provided by e-learning, online live training sessions, guidance documents or mentor support.

IChemE values the contribution that its members and volunteers make to the Institution and our policy is to reimburse the cost of any reasonable expense incurred whilst on IChemE business or in the course of your volunteering. The Member and Volunteer Expenses Policy gives more information on what is defined as a reasonable expenses and how to put in a claim.