Want to begin a career in the nonprofit world? In some cases, you might start at a higher-level job (like if you are transitioning from another career), but for most people, an entry-level job is much more common. Here are ten examples of jobs and where you can apply:
Canvasser
Canvassers work as fundraisers for organizations, going door to door to educate people on issues and collect donations. They can also help launch campaigns, build and train trains, and develop fundraising strategies. You’ll learn about the most pressing issues and what resonates most with people. Passion and excellent communication skills are important. Previous experience in sales or working with the public can be an asset, but many nonprofits will hire people without much experience.
Grant writer
Grant writers are fundraisers. They’re responsible for organizing and writing compelling grant proposals, collaborating with a team, and developing relationships with stakeholders. You’ll need excellent writing skills, an understanding of fundraising, and the ability to find grant opportunities. Organizations typically require at least a bachelor’s degree in writing or a related field, as well as a few years of grant writing experience.
Help desk coordinator
Most nonprofits today rely on technology to run smoothly. Someone at the nonprofit needs to know how to troubleshoot technical issues. Help desk employees – like help desk coordinators – provide hardware and technical support to employees and users, improve processes, and install software. Most organizations require at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and a year or two of experience. Desired skills include excellent problem-solving, good communication regarding IT, and excellent time management.
Project assistant
Project assistants work with a project manager and team to meet deadlines, keep things organized, and contribute to a project’s success. Responsibilities can include monitoring schedules and budgets, assigning tasks, completing administrative tasks, and reporting on updates. Most organizations want a candidate with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, as well as two years or so of relevant work experience.
Social media associate
Social media associates run an organization’s social media brand on various platforms. That includes creating content and developing strategies to raise brand awareness. Associates also work closely with other marketing teams or the social media director if the organization is large enough to have one. You’ll likely need a bachelor’s degree in communication or marketing, though a strong knowledge of social media marketing may be good enough for some nonprofits. A few years of experience – either in general marketing or social media specifically – may be required, too.
Event coordinator
Many nonprofits hold events to fundraise or thank stakeholders. Most event planners start as event coordinators. Coordinators handle the details laid out by the event planner and make sure the logistics work out. They manage all the steps through the event. Higher education isn’t usually required, but degrees in marketing or hospitality can help. You’ll need excellent organization and time management, as well as strong communication and problem-solving skills.
Finance officer
Finance officers are part of the finance and administrative team at a nonprofit. They work on budget monitoring, financial records, and other processing. Most organizations require at least a bachelor’s degree in financial management and accounting and a few years of experience. Desired skills include excellent analytical skills, good time management, and knowledge of finance and accounting software and procedures.
Human resources assistant
HR assistants support an organization’s human resources specialist. Assistants will learn about recruitment, training, records, and benefits. They’re responsible for clerical details such as maintaining personnel files, posting job announcements, reaching out to job applicants, and helping employees change their benefit plans. Desired skills include excellent communication, administrative writing, strong organizational skills, and time management. Most nonprofits ask for at least a bachelor’s degree and maybe 1-2 years of relevant experience.
Administrative assistant
Administrative assistants support the administrative team. Responsibilities include filing, typing, and copying, as well as answering calls, scheduling meetings, managing databases, and other operational work. You’ll need skills like excellent time management, organization, problem-solving, and administrative writing. Education requirements can vary, but an associate’s degree or certificate is often sufficient. A few years of relevant experience also helps.
Research assistant
Many nonprofits rely on good research for their work. Research assistants work with a team on administrative and academic tasks. Responsibilities can include conducting background research, creating documentation, assisting with surveys and interviews, and more. You should be organized, detail-oriented, and great communicators. A strong academic background is important, as well as a master’s degree or sometimes a doctorate.
Where to apply
Beginner non-profit jobs can be found at the local, national, and international levels. Locally, you can find jobs at organizations like food banks, tutoring centers, addiction recovery organizations, and other social service organizations. Local organizations are often smaller and may not require as much experience for certain jobs, so they’re a great option if you’re starting your career or transitioning to non-profit work.
Here are some examples of where to apply:
- International Rescue Committee (IRC) – This international NGO responds to human rights crises, resettles refugees, and rebuilds communities in more than 40 countries.
- Oxfam – This organization (which has its international secretariat in Oxford, London) works with thousands of partner organizations to combat poverty. Regional and national offices offer many entry-level jobs.
- Amnesty International – One of the best-known international organizations, AI monitors human rights records and advocates for justice. Many entry-level positions (like assistant roles) are available at their offices.
- Doctors Without Borders – The world’s leading independent medical relief organization, Doctors Without Borders is found in 72 countries. It focuses on emergency humanitarian and medical assistance.
Online nonprofit job boards (like Idealist, DevEx and Human Rights Careers) can help you narrow down your search by experience level, location, salary range, and more.
