New York City Nonprofit Jobs

Welcome to Foundation List! A comprehensive job board for national nonprofit jobs openings and New York City nonprofit jobs postings.

new york nonprofit jobs board - search nonprofit jobs image of skyline

New York City boasts a vibrant nonprofit sector, with over 33,500 organizations operating within the metropolitan area. These entities employ approximately 600,000 individuals, underscoring the sector’s significant contribution to the local economy. The city’s nonprofits are diverse, focusing on areas such as healthcare, education, social services, and the arts. See: independentsector.org

In recent years, there has been notable growth in technology-focused nonprofits in New York City. As technology becomes increasingly integral to daily life, organizations dedicated to tech education and access have emerged to meet this demand. Additionally, the social services sector continues to expand, with nonprofits providing essential support to underserved communities, including immigrants and individuals experiencing homelessness.

Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx host the highest concentrations of nonprofit employment in the city. These boroughs are home to a variety of organizations, including major hospitals, social service agencies, and cultural institutions.

Compensation for nonprofit roles in New York City tends to be higher than the national average, with many organizations offering competitive salaries and benefits. However, the city’s elevated cost of living can pose challenges for nonprofit professionals seeking affordable housing and amenities.

Looking ahead, the nonprofit sector in New York City is expected to continue its growth trajectory, particularly in areas such as affordable housing, climate change initiatives, and racial justice efforts. As the city confronts challenges related to affordability and inequality, the demand for nonprofit services and support is anticipated to rise. The sector will play a pivotal role in addressing these issues and fostering a more equitable future for all residents.

 

Nonprofit Networking Opportunities in New York

New York City is a bustling hub for nonprofit activities with myriad networking opportunities for professionals seeking to enhance their careers and impact. Here are seven notable networking opportunities in NYC:

  1. Nonprofit New York – This organization is dedicated to strengthening and uniting New York’s nonprofits. They offer workshops, training sessions, and networking events throughout the year. Visit Nonprofit New York
  2. Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of New York City (YNPN NYC) – YNPN NYC supports the professional growth of young leaders by providing access to resources and networking opportunities. Visit YNPN NYC
  3. New York Council of Nonprofits (NYCON) – Serving the entire state, NYCON hosts various networking events and training programs that are invaluable for nonprofit professionals in New York City. Visit NYCON
  4. Foundation Center by Candid – Located in NYC, Candid offers a space where nonprofit professionals can meet, access resources, and attend workshops that emphasize skill development and networking. Visit Candid
  5. Philanthropy New York – A regional association of grantmakers, this organization provides networking events, educational seminars, and policy insights that are pivotal for nonprofit professionals. Visit Philanthropy New York
  6. AFP NYC (Association of Fundraising Professionals NYC Chapter) – AFP NYC offers members the chance to connect with peers, engage in educational programs, and advance their fundraising skills. Visit AFP NYC
  7. NYC Nonprofit Meetup Groups – Various Meetup groups exist within the city that focus on nonprofit networking and collaboration, catering to diverse interests and professional goals. Visit NYC Nonprofit Meetups

 

Largest Nonprofit Employers in New York City

New York City hosts some of the nation’s most significant nonprofit organizations, offering numerous career opportunities. Here are seven of the largest nonprofit employers in NYC:

  1. NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital – One of the leading hospitals in the U.S., NewYork-Presbyterian offers myriad opportunities for medical and administrative professionals. Visit NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
  2. Mount Sinai Health System – Renowned for its top-tier medical services and extensive research, Mount Sinai employs thousands in the healthcare sector. Visit Mount Sinai
  3. NYU Langone Health – Another major healthcare provider in the city, NYU Langone Health is known for its excellent care and cutting-edge research. Visit NYU Langone Health
  4. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center – A world leader in cancer treatment and research, offering numerous professional opportunities. Visit Memorial Sloan Kettering
  5. The City University of New York (CUNY) – As one of the largest urban university systems in the U.S., CUNY offers extensive employment opportunities in education and administration. Visit CUNY
  6. Columbia University – Not only a top educational institution but also a major employer for both academic and non-academic professionals in NYC. Visit Columbia University
  7. Montefiore Health System – A premier academic health system offering a range of jobs in healthcare, research, and administration across its many locations in the city. Visit Montefiore Health System

These networking opportunities and employers provide a dynamic environment for growth and impact in the nonprofit sector, making New York City a premier destination for nonprofit professionals.

Comprehensive Checklist for Finding Nonprofit Jobs in New York City

Breaking into the nonprofit sector in New York City requires a mix of strategy, passion, and understanding of how nonprofits operate. Whether you’re transitioning from the corporate world or starting fresh, this checklist will help you navigate the process and set yourself up for success.

1. Understand the Nonprofit Sector’s Unique Structure

The nonprofit world operates differently from for-profit businesses. While both require strong leadership, operations, and financial sustainability, nonprofits exist to serve a mission rather than generate profits for shareholders. Before applying for jobs, familiarize yourself with how nonprofits function, including governance, fundraising, and program development.

📚 Resources to Explore:

2. Learn How Nonprofits Are Funded

Understanding nonprofit funding is essential, even if you’re not applying for a finance or fundraising role. Nonprofits sustain themselves through a combination of grants, donations, program revenue, sponsorships, and government funding.

  • Key terms to know:
    • Restricted vs. unrestricted funds: Restricted funds must be used for specific purposes, while unrestricted funds can be allocated at the nonprofit’s discretion.
    • Fundraising vs. grantmaking: Grantmaking refers to foundations providing funding to nonprofits, whereas grant writing is the process of applying for those funds.

📚 Resources:

3. Gain Hands-On Experience in the Nonprofit Sector

Nonprofits value passion and commitment to their mission. The best way to demonstrate this is through direct experience.

✅ Ways to gain experience:

  • Volunteer for a nonprofit in your area. Check VolunteerMatch or Idealist for opportunities.
  • Join a nonprofit board if you are pursuing director-level or higher roles. Check out BoardSource or attend a Board Match event.
  • Take on a nonprofit consulting project or internship if transitioning from the corporate sector.

4. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter for the Nonprofit Sector

A generic corporate resume won’t work for a nonprofit job. Your application must showcase your alignment with the mission and demonstrate how your skills translate into nonprofit work.

Resume Tips:

  • Use a mission-driven approach. Highlight any volunteer work, passion projects, or experience relevant to the nonprofit sector.
  • Quantify your impact. Instead of “managed a team,” say “led a team of 10 to increase donor engagement by 25%.”
  • Avoid jargon from the corporate world—frame your experience in nonprofit-friendly language.

📚 Helpful Reads:

5. Learn the Language of the Nonprofit Sector

Nonprofits use industry-specific terminology. If you’re coming from the corporate world, familiarize yourself with key terms to avoid sounding like an outsider.

🚫 Common mistakes to avoid:

  • Calling a nonprofit a company (use “organization” instead).
  • Confusing grantmaking (giving grants) with grant writing (applying for grants).

📚 Resource: National Center for Charitable Statistics – Learn key nonprofit sector terminology.

6. Expand Your Professional Network

Building relationships is crucial in the nonprofit sector. Many nonprofit jobs are filled through networking rather than job postings.

✅ Ways to connect with nonprofit professionals:

  • Attend networking events, nonprofit meetups, or industry conferences. Check out Nonprofit New York for local events.
  • Schedule informational interviews with nonprofit professionals. Reach out on LinkedIn or through mutual connections.
  • Join nonprofit-related LinkedIn groups and participate in discussions.

7. Follow Nonprofit News and Thought Leaders

Stay updated on nonprofit trends, policies, and job openings by following key publications and influencers.

📌 Top nonprofit news sources:

📌 Social Media & Networking Groups:

  • LinkedIn Groups: Join “Nonprofit Leadership & Management” or “Nonprofit Professionals Network.”
  • Twitter/X: Follow hashtags like #NonprofitJobs and #Philanthropy.

8. Use the Best Nonprofit Job Boards

To find the right job, search on platforms that specialize in nonprofit roles.

📌 Top nonprofit job boards:

9. Apply Thoughtfully and Customize Every Application

Nonprofit hiring managers look for tailored applications that show passion for the mission.

✅ Tips for applying:

  • Customize each resume and cover letter to match the specific job description.
  • Express why you’re passionate about the organization’s mission and programs.
  • Highlight relevant skills and accomplishments that directly relate to the job.

10. Follow Up, but Be Professional

Persistence is key, but avoid excessive follow-ups. Many nonprofits have limited HR resources, so patience is necessary.

✅ Best practices for follow-ups:

  • Wait 7-10 days after applying before reaching out.
  • If you don’t hear back, send a polite and concise email inquiring about your application status.

11. Know What Roles You Qualify For

Assess your experience and determine what nonprofit jobs align with your skills. If transitioning from the corporate sector, consult with nonprofit professionals to understand realistic entry points and salary expectations.

📚 Salary Benchmarking Tools:

12. Take Free Classes to Strengthen Your Nonprofit Knowledge

If you’re new to the sector, taking a course can boost your understanding.

📌 Recommended Course:

13. Bring Enthusiasm, Professionalism, and a Willingness to Learn

Beyond skills and experience, nonprofits value passion, integrity, and adaptability. Show up eager to contribute, stay engaged with the mission, and be open to continuous learning.

14. Start Applying!

Use the resources above, refine your application, and take action. Finding a nonprofit job in New York City is competitive but achievable with the right strategy, preparation, and mindset.

📌 Next Steps:

  • Bookmark Foundation List and other job boards.
  • Start networking with nonprofit professionals.
  • Begin crafting targeted applications today!

 

Our Impact: Strengthening the Nonprofit Community

At Foundation List, we are passionate about connecting exceptional nonprofit professionals with mission-driven organizations. Every year, we have the privilege of helping thousands of talented individuals find meaningful nonprofit careers.

Our dedicated team works tirelessly to promote nonprofit job opportunities—whether through social media, job aggregation, or direct outreach. We take pride in fostering a vibrant community where talent meets opportunity, ensuring that critical missions across the nonprofit sector find the leaders they need.

✨ Why We Do It
Nonprofit hiring is more than just filling roles—it’s about building strong teams that create lasting impact. That’s why we are committed to elevating job postings, promoting organizational missions, and connecting professionals with careers that align with their passion for change.

🚀 Looking to hire? Post your jobs today on Foundation List to reach a local, national, and global audience of dedicated nonprofit professionals.
🔎 Job seeker? Explore our active nonprofit job listings and join a growing network of mission-driven talent.

Types of Organizations That Hire Through Foundation List

We serve a wide range of mission-driven employers, including:

✔️ Foundations
✔️ Nonprofits (large and small)
✔️ Educational Institutions & Schools
✔️ Unions & Associations
✔️ Consulting & Advocacy Organizations
✔️ Social Enterprises & B-Corps
✔️ Recruitment Firms & Executive Search Firms
✔️ Government Agencies
✔️ Healthcare Organizations & Hospitals
✔️ Environmental & Conservation Groups

Nonprofit Job Openings Actively Posted on Foundation List

We feature full-time, part-time, and remote nonprofit jobs across all levels—from entry-level roles to executive leadership. Positions commonly listed include:

Leadership & Strategy

  • Executive Director / CEO
  • Board & Governance
  • Strategy & Partnerships

Fundraising & Development

  • Grant Writing / Grant Management
  • Major Gifts & Donor Relations
  • Corporate & Foundation Fundraising

Operations & Administration

  • Finance & Accounting
  • Human Resources & Talent Acquisition
  • Legal & Compliance

Programs & Direct Services

  • Program Management & Operations
  • Community Engagement & Outreach
  • Social Work & Counseling

Communications & Advocacy

  • Marketing & Public Relations
  • Advocacy & Policy Work
  • Social Media & Digital Campaigns

Education & Research

  • Teaching & Curriculum Development
  • Research & Impact Measurement
  • Conservation & Environmental Science

No matter your expertise, there’s a nonprofit role where your skills and passion can make a difference.

📢 Start your search today! Browse our nonprofit job listings and connect with opportunities that align with your values.

Search New York City Nonprofit Jobs & National Career Opportunities 

Start Typing