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Purpose of the volunteer programme
The purpose of the volunteer programme is to provide support for the onsite management of ISB2026. This includes assisting subcommittee chairs and professional conference organisers before and during the congress.
Volunteer Job Descriptions and Opportunities
Venue Ushers/Hall Monitors
Venue Ushers/Hall Monitors will assist the Technical/AV Manager and Session Chairs to ensure all conference venues at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) are ready for presentations and are set up correctly. They will check that signage matches the conference program, chairpersons are in place, and all AV requirements are functional.
Positioned in the galleries and hallways, directional ushers will provide directions and answer delegate queries. They may need to hold a sign for a specific session and will need to become familiar with the venue layout and program beforehand to reduce the need for directional signage.
Branding Assistants/Sponsorship Assistants
Branding assistants will assist the sponsorship manager to ensure all branding is correctly displayed and that third-party suppliers have fulfilled their commitments for rigging. They will also swap banners in plenary sessions as required by sponsor entitlements.
Exhibition Runners
Exhibition runners will assist the exhibition manager and exhibitors by running errands, delivering materials, and answering queries.
Speaker Room Staff (IT Literate)
Staff in the speaker room will assist speakers with queries and with loading their presentations. Candidates must be knowledgeable about computers and have experience with PCs, PowerPoint, and PDFs.
Bag Packing Staff
This is a physical job that requires lifting boxes. Bag packing staff will help pack conference bags with all conference materials, such as the program, flyers, and promotional items.
Social Event Ushers/Hosts
Social event ushers will run errands for the Project Manager, usher delegates into venues, help them find seats, and answer on-site queries.
Registration Assistants (PC Literate/Languages)
Registration assistants will help delegates with on-site registration. This includes giving them their name badges, program, conference bags, and other materials, as well as answering any questions they may have.
Any student registered at a tertiary higher education institution, any intern, or any retired professional from the ballistics, explosive and defence engineering is eligible to apply for the volunteer program.
Applicants must also meet the following minimum requirements:
- Proficiency in English (other languages are welcome for specific job categories).
- Ability to work approximately 2 shifts of 6 to 8 hours at the conference.
- Access to an active email address and a cell phone.
- Ability to travel to the conference venue and pay for their own travel and accommodation in Cape Town.
- Punctuality and hospitality are essential.
- Ability to attend compulsory training sessions one day before the conference and assist one day after.
- Be organized, motivated, and enthusiastic.
- Possess good communication skills and the ability to think quickly.
- Be able to work in a team and handle large groups of people in a stressful environment.
- Be able to take and follow instructions and deal with on-site problems.
Highly Desired Attributes:
- Ability to speak an additional African or European language, or Mandarin/Cantonese.
- A background in event management.
- Previous conference experience.
Application Process
The application period will open on 15 July 2026, and close on 30 September 2026. Spaces are limited, so it is recommended that applicants review all requirements before applying.
Required Documentation
Applicants must submit the following documents through the online application form:
- A copy of an identity document or passport.
- Proof of registration at a tertiary institution in the field of science (physics, chemistry, material & metallurgy science, mathematical science, computer science and military), engineering (mechanical, chemical, electrical and computer engineering), or event management.
- A letter of appointment as an intern, or proof of current or previous employment in the engineering, science, or defence industry for retired and other professionals.
- A short CV (maximum 1 page) detailing relevant experience and skills.
- A written motivation in English (250 words).
- All documents should be PDFs while your photo must be in JPEG format (see specifications below)
Note: Google-translated motivations will be automatically disqualified. So will AI generated one.
Adjudication and Awarding Positions
The adjudication process will involve the committee members independently assessing each application. Applications will be rated based on the quality of the motivation essay and CV. Successful applicants will be informed via email, and job positions will be allocated based on their abilities and experience.
Remuneration and Training
Volunteers will receive the following:
- Free registration for the conference, exhibition, and the welcome and networking functions.
- Bibs, supplied during the training sessions.
- Meals and teas.
- A Certificate/Letter of Appreciation sent after the conference, provided all obligations are met.
Training: A compulsory training session will be held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) at least one day before the conference starts. Attendance is mandatory, and failure to attend may result in the retraction of the volunteer position.