Nonprofit Careers

The nonprofit sector (also referred to as non-governmental organizations, NGOs, independent sector, philanthropic sector, or third sector) is comprised of organizations that are trying to create a better world, as defined by each organization’s mission. These organizations have varying levels of government oversight depending on the country in which they are located.

In the U.S. alone, 12 million individuals work in the nonprofit sector, many having the same working titles of the public (government) or private (business) sector, in addition to titles unique to the nonprofit sector. Types of issues addressed by nonprofit organizations are poverty, the environment, youth development, community service, health care, public policy, the arts, economic development, and many more. People often think of “nonprofits” as youth centers and soup kitchens, but they also include religious institutions, universities, hospitals, trade associations, unions, and museums.

The Best of Idealist

Interested in nonprofit careers?

Meet with a career counselor to receive assistance and additional resources. Call WSU Career Services at (509) 335-2546 to schedule a free appointment or stop in during drop in hours (Mon.-Fri., 2-4 during academic year) at Lighty 180.

Employment Listings and Resources

  • Community Career Center
    http://nonprofitjobs.org
    Search nonprofit job listings and utilize available resources.
  • Guidestar
    http://www.guidestar.org
    Lists financial information for 800,000 nonprofits. Use this site to research nonprofit organizations.
  • Idealist (Action Without Boarders)
    http://www.idealist.org
    Provides one-stop shopping for volunteer opportunities and nonprofit services around the world. It is easy to search for jobs and has clear descriptions of each position and starting salary. Students can subscribe to the Job and Internship Mailing Lists for daily updated listings.
  • Nonprofit Career Network
    http://www.nonprofitcareer.com
    Search for job postings and volunteer opportunities.
  • USA Jobs
    http://www.usajobs.opm.gov
    The official site for federal government and employment information. Search by agency, location, or job type functions.

Books

Find these books at WSU Career Services, 180 Lighty Building.

  • Arco 100 Best Nonprofits to Work for
    By Leslie Hamilton
  • Careers in Nonprofits and Government Agencies
    By Wetfeet
  • From Making a Profit to Making a Difference: How to Launch Your New Career in Nonprofits
    By Richard M. King
  • Making A Living While Making A Difference
    By Melissa Everett
  • The Harvard Business School Guide to Careers in the Nonprofit Sector
    By Stephanie Lowell

Periodicals

Review articles on current issues in the nonprofit sector and learn more about various resources available to those working and seeking jobs in the nonprofit sector. Sign up for a subscription or utilize their online features.

Professional Associations

Associations often supply statistical information on employment in the field, offer internships, list schools, and provide information on jobs available. Get in touch with these organizations to meet colleagues and to get more information about work in their sector.

Programs at WSU

  • Community Service Learning Center
    http://cslc.wsu.edu
    CSLC connects students with large variety of volunteer opportunities throughout the community.
  • The Thomas S. Foley Institute for Public Policy & Public Service
    http://libarts.wsu.edu/foleyinst
    Fosters civic education, public service, and public policy research in a nonpartisan, cross-disciplinary setting. Find information on scholarship and fellowship opportunities from the Foley Institute. Internship resources available for those interested in government and public policy or natural resources and environmental policy.

Graduate School Information

These websites contain lists and resources for students interested in graduate school and public service careers.