What is a nonprofit job?

When you think of nonprofits, you might first think of animal shelters and soup kitchens, but there are also other kinds, such as advocacy groups, which work for social change; trade associations, which offer membership and services like research, training, or lobbying for the industry they represent; and religious institutions, like churches and temples and private foundations, which focus on making grants to other nonprofits.

The biggest difference is that there's a different bottom line. In business, the ultimate goal is to make a profit. For nonprofits, the goal is to have a positive effect in the world. And staff members are generally expected to share that perspective, which can sometimes translate into longer hours and pitching in wherever you're needed to help advance the mission. But staff members often derive an enormous sense of personal fulfillment from their work (particularly if the organization is well-run and getting results).

Before jumping into a job at a nonprofit, consider the fact that nonprofits often (but not always) have fewer resources, which can mean less money for salaries, office space, and equipment. For this reason, it's not uncommon for nonprofits to be understaffed. You might be expected to wear several different hats, which can be a great opportunity to get experience in multiple areas, but can be frustrating if you want to just focus on one thing.

Nonprofit jobs can also vary in terms of the roles and responsibilities they entail. Some examples of nonprofit jobs include:

• Program managers or coordinators who oversee the delivery of services or programs to clients or communities

• Development officers who work to secure funding and donations to support the organization's mission

• Marketing or communications specialists who help to raise awareness of the organization and its programs or services

• Fundraisers who organize events and campaigns to solicit donations and support from individuals or corporations

• Nonprofit jobs can offer a sense of purpose and fulfillment to those who are passionate about making a positive impact on the world. They can also provide opportunities for career growth and advancement, as well as competitive salaries and benefits in many cases.