Find Arizona Nonprofit Jobs & National Mission-Driven Careers | Foundation List
Explore nonprofit job openings in Arizona and across the U.S. Find career opportunities in foundations, education, healthcare, social services, advocacy, and more. Get expert job search tips, hiring insights, and resources to grow your impact-driven career.
Arizona’s nonprofit sector is a dynamic and essential component of the state’s economy and community well-being. With over 20,000 registered nonprofit organizations, these entities provide a broad spectrum of services, including healthcare, education, social services, and the arts. The sector employs more than 174,000 individuals, underscoring its significant economic impact.
Growth in Educational Nonprofits
As Arizona’s population continues to expand, the demand for educational services has risen correspondingly. Nonprofit organizations focusing on education—such as after-school programs, tutoring services, and college access initiatives—have experienced notable growth in recent years. This trend reflects the community’s commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for all residents.
Major Nonprofit Employers in Arizona
Several prominent nonprofit organizations contribute significantly to Arizona’s economy and public welfare:
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Banner Health: Headquartered in Phoenix, Banner Health operates 33 hospitals across six states and employs over 55,000 individuals. As the largest employer in Arizona, Banner Health provides comprehensive healthcare services, including emergency care, hospice, outpatient surgery, and primary care. en.wikipedia.org+1en.wikipedia.org+1
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Phoenix Children’s Hospital: This 484-bed facility offers specialized pediatric care and is affiliated with the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix. Recognized nationally for excellence in multiple pediatric specialties, the hospital plays a crucial role in delivering healthcare to Arizona’s youth. en.wikipedia.org+2en.wikipedia.org+2en.wikipedia.org+2
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St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance: Established in 1967 as the world’s first food bank, St. Mary’s addresses food insecurity across nine Arizona counties. Through partnerships with over 900 agencies, the organization distributes millions of pounds of food annually to those in need. en.wikipedia.org
Key Points:
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Vibrant Nonprofit Sector: Arizona hosts over 20,000 registered nonprofit organizations, employing more than 174,000 individuals. These organizations provide services in healthcare, education, social services, and the arts. foundationlist.org
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Growth in Education Nonprofits: With the state’s growing population, there’s an increased demand for educational services. Nonprofits offering after-school programs, tutoring, and college access initiatives have experienced significant growth. foundationlist.org
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Major Nonprofit Hubs:
- Phoenix: A diverse range of organizations, from large healthcare systems to social service agencies.
- Tucson: Strong presence in environmental issues, arts education, and community development.
- Flagstaff: Focus on environmental and social service organizations, particularly in outdoor recreation and education. foundationlist.org
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Competitive Compensation: Nonprofit salaries in Arizona generally align with national averages, with some positions in healthcare and education offering higher pay. Many organizations also provide competitive benefits packages. foundationlist.org
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Future Outlook: The nonprofit sector in Arizona is expected to continue growing, especially in areas like affordable housing, healthcare, and environmental sustainability, to meet the needs of underserved communities. foundationlist.org
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Job Search Resources: Foundation List connects job seekers with a variety of nonprofit positions across Arizona, offering a comprehensive job board and additional resources to support career development. foundationlist.org
These insights highlight Arizona’s robust nonprofit landscape and the opportunities available for professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in the state.
Major Nonprofit Hubs in Arizona
Phoenix
Arizona’s capital city serves as a major hub for nonprofit activity, offering diverse opportunities across healthcare, social services, and community development. Notable organizations include:
- Banner Health – The largest employer in Arizona, providing comprehensive healthcare across 33 hospitals.
- Mayo Clinic – A world-renowned nonprofit medical center offering cutting-edge treatment and research.
- St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance – The first-ever food bank, serving millions of meals to Arizona residents.
📍 Top Neighborhoods for Nonprofit Professionals:
- Downtown Phoenix – Rich in cultural attractions, walkability, and career opportunities.
- Arcadia – Family-friendly with excellent parks and schools.
Tucson
As Southern Arizona’s cultural center, Tucson has a strong nonprofit presence, particularly in environmental advocacy, arts education, and social services. Leading nonprofits include:
- Tucson Medical Center – A major nonprofit healthcare provider in the region.
- Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona – Addressing hunger and food insecurity across multiple counties.
- The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum – A nonprofit dedicated to desert conservation and environmental education.
📍 Top Neighborhoods for Nonprofit Professionals:
- Midtown Tucson – Historic charm, affordable housing, and proximity to the University of Arizona.
- Barrio Viejo – An artistic enclave known for its vibrant nonprofit and cultural scene.
Flagstaff
Nestled in the mountains, Flagstaff is home to a unique blend of environmental and social service nonprofits focusing on sustainability, outdoor recreation, and community development. Key organizations include:
- The Grand Canyon Trust – A nonprofit working to protect the Colorado Plateau’s natural environment.
- Northern Arizona Healthcare – The region’s largest nonprofit healthcare provider.
- Flagstaff Family Food Center – Supporting food security initiatives in Northern Arizona.
📍 Top Neighborhoods for Nonprofit Professionals:
- Southside – Affordable with proximity to downtown and outdoor recreation.
- University Heights – Ideal for young professionals and students engaged in nonprofit work.
Salary & Benefits in Arizona’s Nonprofit Sector
Salaries in Arizona’s nonprofit industry align closely with national averages, though roles in healthcare and education often offer competitive wages. Many organizations provide robust benefits packages, including:
✔️ Healthcare coverage
✔️ Retirement plans
✔️ Professional development opportunities
✔️ Generous paid time off
Why Build Your Nonprofit Career in Arizona?
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Create Meaningful Impact – Arizona’s nonprofit sector plays a vital role in addressing pressing challenges like affordable housing, environmental conservation, and education. By working in a mission-driven organization, you can help drive real change in communities across the state.
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Opportunities for Career Growth – With Arizona’s nonprofit sector expanding, professionals have access to a growing number of leadership and advancement opportunities in diverse fields, from healthcare and social services to education and sustainability.
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Unmatched Natural Beauty – From the breathtaking landscapes of the Sonoran Desert to the cool mountain retreats of Flagstaff, Arizona offers year-round outdoor recreation, making it an ideal place for nature lovers.
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A Thriving Cultural Scene – Arizona is home to world-class museums, performing arts centers, and a diverse array of cultural festivals that celebrate the state’s rich heritage and vibrant artistic community.
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A Strong, Supportive Community – Nonprofits in Arizona thrive on collaboration, and many communities foster a deep sense of connection and shared purpose, making it an inspiring place to work and live.
Whether you’re looking to launch your nonprofit career or take it to the next level, Arizona offers the opportunity to make a lasting difference while enjoying a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Arizona’s Thriving Non-Profit Sector: Jobs and Opportunities
Arizona boasts a vibrant non-profit sector, employing a substantial workforce and making a significant impact on the state’s economy. While a definitive ranking of the top organization types isn’t readily available, here’s a glimpse into the diverse landscape you can explore:
Key Nonprofit Sectors in Arizona
- Social services – Nonprofits addressing homelessness, poverty, food insecurity, and mental health services play a crucial role in supporting Arizona’s most vulnerable populations.
- Healthcare – Nonprofit healthcare organizations, including Banner Health, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, and rural community clinics, ensure Arizonans have access to quality medical care.
- Education and youth development – From early childhood education to college access programs, Arizona nonprofits help bridge educational gaps and provide mentorship opportunities for young learners.
- Arts and culture – Nonprofits dedicated to museums, performing arts, and cultural preservation enrich communities and strengthen Arizona’s creative landscape.
- Environmental conservation – With Arizona’s vast deserts, forests, and national parks, organizations such as The Grand Canyon Trust and Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum work to protect natural resources and promote sustainability.
- Housing and community development – Nonprofits tackling affordable housing and urban development ensure that residents have access to safe and stable living conditions.
- Faith-based and spiritual organizations – Religious nonprofits offer essential social services, community outreach programs, and spiritual guidance to people across Arizona.
- International development and relief – Arizona-based nonprofits extend their impact globally, addressing disaster relief, humanitarian aid, and global poverty reduction.
- Animal welfare – Organizations focused on animal rescue, adoption, and wildlife protection help improve the lives of animals throughout the state.
Arizona’s nonprofit sector continues to grow, with increasing demand for healthcare, education, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability initiatives. Whether you are looking to lead a mission-driven organization or work hands-on in community services, Arizona offers exciting nonprofit career opportunities that make a real difference.
Top Cities for Nonprofit Careers in Arizona
Arizona offers a wealth of nonprofit career opportunities, but some cities stand out for their high concentration of nonprofit organizations and job openings:
- Phoenix – The state’s largest nonprofit hub, home to major healthcare systems, food banks, and social service organizations.
- Tucson – A center for environmental advocacy, arts education, healthcare, and community development nonprofits.
- Flagstaff – Known for environmental conservation, outdoor recreation, and social service organizations.
- Mesa – A growing city with strong nonprofit activity in healthcare, education, and community services.
- Glendale – Home to multiple healthcare nonprofits and youth development organizations.
- Chandler – A tech-driven city with nonprofit opportunities in STEM education, workforce development, and healthcare.
- Scottsdale – Features many philanthropic organizations, arts nonprofits, and medical research institutions.
- Peoria – A rapidly expanding city with increasing nonprofit presence in education and healthcare.
- Surprise – A hotspot for senior services, healthcare, and community development nonprofits.
- Gilbert – Known for nonprofit work in youth services, education, and social impact initiatives.
Whether you’re looking for leadership roles, program management positions, or direct service opportunities, these cities offer diverse options for making an impact in Arizona’s nonprofit sector.
Find Your Calling:
Foundation List connects you with a vast array of non-profit positions across Arizona. Explore our comprehensive job board and discover your perfect opportunity to make a difference while building a rewarding career!
Arizona Nonprofit Jobs: A Guide to Finding Work in the Nonprofit Sector
Are you looking for a meaningful career in Arizona’s nonprofit sector? Whether you’re new to the industry or transitioning from another field, knowing where and how to search for nonprofit jobs is essential. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process, build connections, and successfully land a role that aligns with your passion and skills.
Steps to Successfully Find a Nonprofit Job in Arizona
1. Understand the Nonprofit Sector
- Nonprofits operate differently from for-profit businesses. Learn how funding, grantmaking, and donations sustain organizations and how missions shape their goals.
- Familiarize yourself with nonprofit fundraising—even if you’re not applying for a fundraising role, understanding how organizations secure funding is crucial.
2. Gain Nonprofit Experience
- If you’re new to the sector, consider volunteering, joining a nonprofit board, or contributing to a short-term project to gain firsthand experience.
- Many leadership roles in nonprofits value board service—consider joining a nonprofit board if you’re aiming for executive or director-level positions.
3. Research How Foundations and Funding Work
- Understand the difference between restricted vs. unrestricted funds and how they impact hiring and budgeting.
- Learn how grantmaking works (foundations funding nonprofits) versus grant writing (applying for funding from grants).
4. Craft a Mission-Driven Resume & Cover Letter
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to reflect your passion for mission-based work.
- Clearly connect your skills and experience to the needs of the nonprofit job you’re applying for.
- If transitioning from the corporate sector, don’t assume your experience will translate easily—explain how your skills can directly benefit a nonprofit.
5. Speak the Language of Nonprofits
- Avoid calling a nonprofit a company—use organization, foundation, or institution instead.
- Learn industry terminology—understand terms like 501(c)(3), program development, capacity building, and stakeholder engagement.
6. Expand Your Nonprofit Network
- Attend nonprofit networking events, conferences, and meetups to connect with professionals in the sector.
- Schedule informational interviews with nonprofit leaders to learn about career paths and potential opportunities.
- Follow nonprofit groups on LinkedIn and Twitter to stay updated on trends, job postings, and sector insights.
7. Utilize the Right Nonprofit Job Boards
- Leverage nonprofit-specific job sites to find relevant opportunities (see the job board list below).
- Monitor postings regularly and apply strategically to roles that align with your experience and career goals.
8. Customize Every Application
- Tailor each application to the specific role and organization—generic applications won’t stand out.
- Express genuine enthusiasm for the nonprofit’s mission and explain how your skills will help advance their goals.
9. Follow Up Professionally
- Be persistent but not pushy—respect nonprofit hiring timelines, which may differ from corporate recruitment processes.
- If you don’t get an immediate response, follow up with a polite email reiterating your interest in the role.
10. Know What Roles You Qualify For
- Research the pay range and qualifications for nonprofit roles based on your experience.
- If transitioning from another industry, talk to nonprofit professionals to better understand how your skills translate.
- Be open to starting one step below your ideal role to gain nonprofit experience before advancing.
11. Take Advantage of Free Nonprofit Career Resources
- The Foundation Center’s “Introduction to Finding Grants” is a great free class (available online or in-person) to better understand nonprofit funding.
12. Approach Your Job Search with Energy & Positivity
- Be enthusiastic, professional, and proactive in your approach.
- Understand that landing a nonprofit job takes time, networking, and strategic applications—stay patient and persistent.
Start Applying for Nonprofit Jobs Today
Now that you’re prepared, start exploring nonprofit job listings in Arizona! Check out the top nonprofit job sites listed below to find your next opportunity.
Helpful Links to Educate You About Nonprofits And Get You Ready To Interview
An Introduction to How to Find A Job In The Nonprofit Sector
Thinking About a Nonprofit Job? Here’s What You Should Know
Listen to the Fundraising Fundamentals Podcast from The Chronicle of Philanthropy
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After all, this is what we were born to do. It is our mission and focus to connect experienced professionals with impactful foundations, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions in need of staff.
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Who Posts Jobs on Foundation List?
Foundation List connects mission-driven professionals with a wide range of organizations, including:
- Foundations
- Nonprofits
- Educational Institutions & Schools
- Unions
- Associations
- Consulting Firms
- Social Enterprises
- Recruitment Firms
- Government Agencies
- Healthcare Organizations
- Other Specialty Nonprofits
Arizona Nonprofit Jobs Available on Foundation List
Foundation List features part-time and full-time nonprofit positions across all experience levels, from entry-level to executive leadership. Our platform supports hiring across nonprofit and mission-driven sectors.
Commonly posted positions include:
- Executive Leadership
- Development & Grantmaking
- Administration
- Finance & Accounting
- Human Resources
- Marketing & Communications
- Legal & Compliance
- Programs & Operations
- Facilities Management
- Direct Services & Social Work
- Healthcare & Public Health
- Education & Teaching
- Partnerships & Fundraising
- Counseling & Mental Health
- Public Relations
- Customer Service
- Advocacy & Policy
- Arts & Culture
- Government & Public Affairs
- Environmental Conservation
- Community Engagement
- Research & Evaluation
- Grants Management
- Public Safety
- Social Media & Digital Engagement
- IT & Database Management
Foundation List makes it easy for nonprofit professionals to find meaningful career opportunities that align with their skills and passion for impact. Start exploring job openings today!
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Arizona Nonprofit Jobs: Questions & Answers
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about finding nonprofit jobs in Arizona, along with helpful answers and resources to guide your job search.
How do I find nonprofit jobs in Arizona?
Arizona has a thriving nonprofit sector with thousands of job openings across different industries. To find nonprofit jobs:
- Search nonprofit job boards like Foundation List for the latest postings.
- Check nonprofit organizations’ websites directly for job listings. Many major nonprofits post openings on their own sites.
- Use LinkedIn and networking events to connect with nonprofit professionals and learn about job opportunities.
Which cities in Arizona have the most nonprofit jobs?
The top cities for nonprofit careers in Arizona include:
- Phoenix – The largest nonprofit hub in the state, home to major healthcare, social service, and advocacy organizations.
- Tucson – Known for its environmental nonprofits, arts organizations, and community development programs.
- Flagstaff – A center for environmental conservation, education, and social service nonprofits.
- Mesa, Glendale, Chandler, and Scottsdale – Suburban areas with growing nonprofit opportunities in healthcare, education, and social services.
What are the top nonprofit organizations hiring in Arizona?
Some of the largest nonprofit employers in Arizona include:
- Banner Health (Website) – One of the largest nonprofit healthcare providers in the region.
- Phoenix Children’s Hospital (Website) – A leading pediatric hospital with a strong nonprofit mission.
- St. Mary’s Food Bank (Website) – One of the nation’s largest food banks, serving communities across Arizona.
- Grand Canyon Trust (Website) – A nonprofit dedicated to environmental conservation in the Southwest.
What nonprofit job roles are in high demand in Arizona?
The following nonprofit job roles are consistently in demand across Arizona:
- Healthcare & Public Health – Nonprofit hospitals, clinics, and health advocacy groups frequently hire professionals in medical and administrative roles.
- Education & Youth Development – Schools, after-school programs, and tutoring nonprofits need teachers, counselors, and administrators.
- Social Services & Community Outreach – Nonprofits addressing homelessness, food security, and housing assistance are always seeking passionate professionals.
- Environmental Conservation – With Arizona’s unique natural landscapes, nonprofits focused on sustainability and conservation offer many opportunities.
- Fundraising & Grant Writing – Organizations rely on fundraisers and grant writers to secure financial support for their missions.
How can I transition from the corporate sector to a nonprofit job?
If you’re coming from the corporate world and want to work in the nonprofit sector:
- Highlight transferable skills in fundraising, project management, marketing, finance, or HR.
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to align with nonprofit missions and demonstrate your commitment to social impact.
- Gain nonprofit experience by volunteering or serving on a nonprofit board.
- Network with nonprofit professionals to learn more about opportunities and industry needs.
What salary can I expect working for a nonprofit in Arizona?
Salaries vary depending on the organization, job role, and location. Generally:
- Entry-level nonprofit jobs range from $35,000 – $50,000 per year.
- Mid-level nonprofit professionals (e.g., program managers, grant writers) earn $50,000 – $80,000 per year.
- Executive leadership roles in large nonprofits can offer salaries exceeding $100,000, depending on the organization’s size and funding.
- Many nonprofits also offer competitive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Where can I find resources to improve my nonprofit job search?
There are several excellent resources for nonprofit job seekers:
- Foundation List (Visit Site) – A dedicated nonprofit job board with Arizona job postings.
- National Council of Nonprofits (Visit Site) – Offers career advice and nonprofit sector insights.
- Idealist (Visit Site) – A nonprofit job board with postings across the U.S.
- Arizona Alliance of Nonprofits (Visit Site) – Provides local nonprofit sector resources, events, and job listings.
What steps should I take to get hired in Arizona’s nonprofit sector?
- Research nonprofits that align with your passions and career goals.
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to reflect mission-driven experience and transferable skills.
- Network with professionals in the nonprofit sector by attending nonprofit networking events or connecting on LinkedIn.
- Gain relevant experience by volunteering, interning, or joining a nonprofit board.
- Apply strategically to roles that fit your skills and customize each application to the specific organization.
Arizona offers an exciting and growing nonprofit job market with opportunities in many sectors. By following these tips and utilizing the right resources, you can successfully find a rewarding career that makes a meaningful impact.
Now go ahead and list a job!
Foundation List is a job board specifically designed for listing opportunities within the nonprofit employment sector! It is our mission to connect foundations, organizations, associations, and educational institutions to passionate mission-minded job seekers.