Types of jobs in non-profit organisations

Working for a non-profit is a great way to mix your values with work ethic. Although many non-profits take a business approach to maximising income, making a profit is not the ultimate aim. This means that employees are free to focus on furthering the cause rather than hitting targets.

Whether you’re a post-graduate or you want to make a career change, there are lots of paid opportunities in non-profits. Although competition for jobs can be tough, the industry has shown a steady increase in employment since 2012. There are now more than 880,556 people working in this sector. So, what type of jobs are available in non-profits?

Management and administration jobs

Many private sector workers with experience in management and administration have the transferable skills needed to work in a non-profit. These types of jobs include:

• Advocacy director
• Office manager
• Fundraising manager
• Compliance coordinator
• Membership administrator
• Grant proposal manager
• Accounting assistant

Advocacy jobs

Advocates take on the role of bringing attention to the non-profit by increasing its visibility. This helps the organisation to establish a bigger donor base, which furthers the cause. Types of jobs in advocacy include:

• Community outreach coordinator
• Community outreach advocate
• Outreach specialist
• Advocacy officer
• Legal advocate
• Lobbyist
• Social media coordinator

Campaigning jobs

Campaigns are a huge part of the public-facing side of non-profits. They bring much needed attention to the cause and help to boost income. Types of jobs in this area include:

• Campaign manager
• Grassroots organiser
• Program assistant
• Events coordinator
• Online activist

Fundraising jobs

Fundraising is one of the most recognisable aspects of non-profit labour. It’s an essential part of keeping the non-profit going, so jobs in this field are vital. Anyone with a sales background will find they have transferable skills in this area. Jobs can include:

• Grant writer
• Grant coordinator
• Fundraiser
• Fundraising coordinator
• Marketing assistant

Research jobs

Research is a fundamental aspect of furthering the work of non-profits. Publishing research allows organisations to take their causes forward and find new ways of resolving relevant issues. Jobs in this field can involve:

• Lab-based research
• Legal research
• Social research

If you’re considering a career in the non-profit sector, search our database for current vacancies today.