San Francisco Bay Area Nonprofit Jobs & Career Resources

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San Francisco Bay Area Nonprofit Jobs & Career Resources

Welcome to Foundation List, your go-to nonprofit job board for both national opportunities and nonprofit jobs in San Francisco. Whether you’re looking for a mission-driven career or seeking top nonprofit talent, the San Francisco Bay Area offers a thriving job market for nonprofit professionals.

Finding Nonprofit Jobs in the San Francisco Bay Area

San Francisco is not just a center for technology and innovation—it’s also a major hub for nonprofit organizations. With a strong focus on social justice, environmental sustainability, healthcare, and education, the Bay Area provides countless opportunities for professionals passionate about making a difference. Whether you’re new to the sector or an experienced nonprofit leader, the city’s growing philanthropic community and strong employer network make it an ideal place to advance your career.

In San Francisco alone, more than 6,500 nonprofit organizations are actively working to drive positive change. Statewide, nonprofits generate over $40 billion annually and account for 15% of California’s gross state product, according to CalNonprofits. With a strong, expanding nonprofit sector, San Francisco offers both impactful career paths and long-term job stability.

The San Francisco Bay Area Nonprofit Job Market

The San Francisco Bay Area is home to over 9,000 registered nonprofit organizations, employing approximately 140,000 professionals across a range of sectors. As demand for nonprofit services continues to rise, organizations are expanding to address critical community needs, including:

  • Healthcare – Nonprofits supporting community health services, mental health programs, and healthcare access initiatives
  • Education – Organizations improving public education, early childhood programs, and adult learning resources
  • Social Services – Nonprofits providing housing assistance, workforce development, and support for vulnerable populations
  • Environmental Advocacy – Groups focused on climate change, sustainability, and conservation efforts

The Bay Area’s nonprofit sector has seen steady growth over the past decade, driven by a strong philanthropic culture, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and a community dedicated to social impact. The region’s startup mentality and innovative approach to solving social issues have contributed to the rapid expansion of new and existing nonprofit organizations.

Explore Local Networking Groups

Effective networking is essential for uncovering job opportunities within nonprofits. In the Bay Area, several groups facilitate connections between professionals and potential nonprofit employers:

  • Young Nonprofit Professionals Network (YNPN) Bay Area: This group organizes events and provides resources for young professionals aspiring to drive social change. Visit YNPN Bay Area
  • Nonprofit VOTE: Engages nonprofits in the Bay Area to promote voter participation and democratic engagement through various networking events and workshops. Explore Nonprofit VOTE
  • TechSoup: Based in San Francisco, TechSoup provides technology resources to nonprofits and hosts regular workshops and events that are perfect for networking. Check out TechSoup
  • San Francisco Council of Nonprofits (SFCN): This council offers networking events, workshops, and resources tailored to nonprofit professionals in San Francisco. Learn more about SFCN
  • Impact Hub San Francisco: Part of a global network, this group offers a collaborative space for professionals interested in social impact projects. Join Impact Hub San Francisco
  • Net Impact San Francisco: Focuses on using business skills for social and environmental causes, offering networking and educational events. Visit Net Impact San Francisco

Largest Nonprofits in the San Francisco Bay Area

The Bay Area is home to some influential and well-established nonprofits:

By participating in local networking events, connecting with nonprofit professionals, and utilizing specialized job boards, you’re well on your way to finding a rewarding career in the nonprofit sector in the San Francisco Bay Area. Whether you aim to contribute to global health initiatives, environmental conservation, or educational programs, there is a place for your skills and passion in the Bay Area’s nonprofit community.

Nonprofit executive search team seen at an interview at a conference table

How to Find Nonprofit Jobs in the San Francisco Bay Area

San Francisco’s nonprofit sector is one of the most dynamic in the country, offering thousands of mission-driven career opportunities in areas like social justice, environmental advocacy, healthcare, and education. Whether you’re transitioning from the corporate world or just beginning your nonprofit career, understanding how to navigate this job market is key to finding the right role.

Below is a checklist to help you land a nonprofit job in the San Francisco Bay Area, along with valuable resources to expand your network and maximize your chances of success.

Checklist for Landing a Nonprofit Job in San Francisco

Understand the Nonprofit Sector

  • Learn how nonprofit organizations operate differently from corporate businesses, including funding sources, mission-driven priorities, and governance structures.
  • Familiarize yourself with fundraising, grantmaking, and nonprofit financial models, as these impact the operations of nearly every nonprofit organization.

Gain Hands-On Experience

  • Volunteer with local nonprofits, serve on a board, or contribute to a project that aligns with your interests.
  • Research Board Match events to find opportunities to join a nonprofit board, which can help build leadership experience.

Develop a Mission-Driven Resume

  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your commitment to social impact and relevant skills.
  • Demonstrate how your background aligns with nonprofit needs, whether in program management, fundraising, marketing, operations, or direct services.

Understand Key Nonprofit Terminology

  • Avoid referring to a nonprofit as a “company” and learn sector-specific terms like:
    • Grantmaking – The process of awarding funds to nonprofit organizations (typically by foundations).
    • Grant writing – The process of applying for funding from foundations, corporations, or government agencies.

Network with Nonprofit Professionals

Follow Nonprofit News and Job Boards

Customize Your Job Applications

  • Apply individually to each open position, crafting your resume and cover letter to match the specific requirements of the job.
  • Clearly articulate why you’re passionate about the nonprofit’s mission and what unique contributions you can bring.

Be Professional and Strategic in Your Search

  • Respect nonprofit hiring timelines—many organizations operate with limited HR capacity, so be patient while awaiting responses.
  • If transitioning from the corporate world, explain how your skills translate rather than assuming nonprofit employers will make the connection themselves.

Seek Professional Development Opportunities

  • Attend nonprofit training programs, such as “Introduction to Finding Grants,” a free class offered by Candid (formerly the Foundation Center).
  • Stay proactive by developing skills in grant writing, nonprofit management, and impact measurement.

Start Applying and Stay Persistent

  • Use the job boards and networking resources mentioned above to actively search and apply for nonprofit jobs.
  • Approach your job search with energy, professionalism, and a passion for mission-driven work.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-positioned to launch or advance your nonprofit career in the San Francisco Bay Area. Start exploring opportunities today and connect with the organizations that inspire you.

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

Learn About Fundraising

Our Impact

Each year, we have the privilege of connecting thousands of nonprofit professionals with meaningful career opportunities. Helping mission-driven organizations find the leaders they need is at the heart of what we do, and it brings us great satisfaction to support causes that create real change. Our nonprofit job community continues to grow, fostering an active network of talented professionals dedicated to making a difference.

Every day, our team is committed to amplifying nonprofit job opportunities, engaging with the sector, and promoting organizations through FoundationList.org. Whether through social media, job postings, or professional networking, we take pride in supporting the nonprofit and philanthropic community by connecting top talent with mission-driven employers.

This work isn’t just our profession—it’s our passion. Our mission is to bridge the gap between experienced professionals and the foundations, nonprofits, and educational institutions that need them.

Post Jobs & Find Talent

Employers can post jobs now to reach local, national, and international nonprofit job seekers. Our platform provides job aggregation recruitment, social media promotion, and a dedicated audience of nonprofit professionals.

Explore Nonprofit Job Openings

Job seekers can search our latest openings and join our network to stay updated on new opportunities in the nonprofit sector.

Organizations That Hire on Foundation List

  • Foundations
  • Nonprofits
  • Educational institutions and schools
  • Unions
  • Associations
  • Consultants
  • Social enterprises
  • Recruitment firms
  • Government agencies
  • Health institutions and organizations
  • Other mission-driven organizations

Nonprofit Jobs Available

We feature a wide range of nonprofit job opportunities, from entry-level to executive leadership. Whether you’re looking for full-time, part-time, or contract positions, our platform is designed to connect job seekers with impactful careers.

Commonly Posted Positions

  • Executive leadership
  • Development and grant making
  • Administration
  • Finance
  • Human resources
  • Communications and marketing
  • Legal and compliance
  • Programs and operations
  • Direct services
  • Health and education
  • Teaching and counseling
  • Partnerships and advocacy
  • Public relations
  • Customer service
  • Arts and culture
  • Government and policy
  • Conservation and environmental roles
  • Community engagement
  • Research and data analysis
  • Fundraising and grants management
  • Safety and compliance
  • Social media and digital marketing
  • IT and database management

Featured National Nonprofit Jobs

President & CEO new A Full-time Job
International Institute of St. Louis St. Louis Apr.
Development Manager new A Full-time Job
Association of Writers & Writing Programs Remote Apr.
Project Analyst new A Full-time Job
Missouri Foundation for Health St. Louis Apr.
Director of Development new A Full-time Job
Foundation for the Mid South Jackson Apr.
Chief Strategy Officer new A Full-time Job
Foundation for the Mid South Jackson Apr.
STAR Facility Administrator new A Full-time Job
Community Counseling Solutions Boardman Apr.
Facilities Manager new A Full-time Job
Missouri Foundation for Health St Louis Apr.
Associate Director of Development for Special Events new A Full-time Job
Central Park Conservancy New York Apr.
Chief Operating Officer new A Full-time Job
Child and Family Agency of Southeastern CT (CFA) New London Apr.
Agriculture Organizer new A Full-time Job
Northern Plains Resource Council Billings Apr.
Chief Financial Officer new A Full-time Job
Waystone Health and Human Services Lawrence Apr.
Individual Giving Manager new A Full-time Job
Democracy Now! Productions New York Apr.
Development Director new A Full-time Job
Western Resource Advocates (WRA) Boulder - CO Apr.
Attorney or Senior Attorney, Clean Energy new A Full-time Job
Western Resource Advocates (WRA) Phoenix Apr.
Development Director new A Full-time Job
Aaron's Presents Lowell and Lawrence Apr.
Planned Giving and Endowment Manager new Part-time
La Jolla Playhouse La Jolla Apr.
Conferences & Events Specialist new A Full-time Job
American Public Power Association Arlington Apr.
Volunteer Coordinator (FT) (Hybrid) new A Full-time Job
FriendshipWorks Boston Apr.
Dietary Aide-Full and Part-Time new A Full-time Job
Sisters of Notre Dame Chardon Apr.
Executive Director new A Full-time Job
350deschutes Bend Apr.
Manager of Finance & Treasury new A Full-time Job
Stone Alliance Group New York Apr.
Senior Director of Development, Foundation Relations new A Full-time Job
Oregon State University Foundation Corvallis Apr.
Training Coordinator new Part-time
NAMI Lehigh Valley Bethlehem Apr.
Executive Director new A Full-time Job
NOVA Parks (Virginia) Fairfax Station Apr.
Executive Director new A Full-time Job
Got Green Seattle Apr.

See All Nonprofit Jobs

Foundation List is a national nonprofit job board designed specifically to serve the not-for-profit hiring sector. Whether you’re looking to post a job or explore new career opportunities, our platform connects mission-minded professionals with organizations that make an impact.

Post a Job Now and connect with top nonprofit talent today.

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