Look for Tech Jobs at Nonprofits and Find Bonus Benefits

Posted by in Technology •


Maybe it’s the phrase “nonprofit” in and of itself that deters tech workers from applying at dot-orgs instead of dot-coms. The label gives off the vibe that there is no money to be made, which can translate as no room for advancement. However, according to CBS Sacramento, “Not all nonprofits are cash strapped. Some are awash in money.” Finding work at a thriving nonprofit can become a rewarding career with benefits beyond a paycheck.

 

More and more nonprofits are relying on a top-notch tech staff to keep them relevant and connected, which generates funds to stay afloat in a struggling economy. A great example is the recent record-breaking revelation that Sesame Street is the first nonprofit to surpass one billion YouTube views. While not many groups have the powerhouse of recognition and resources that Sesame Street does, most would like that visibility. So they follow similar models to achieve success and invest in employees who can make it happen.  

 

The Case Foundation busts the myth that a non-profit job is a go-nowhere career. They say working for one won’t bankrupt anyone’s retirement. “Nowadays," they argue, "nonprofits know that in order to hire and retain excellent staff, they must be able to offer competitive benefits packages to their employees. Nonprofit employees have come to expect retirement contributions, relocation reimbursement, flexible work schedules, health and dental insurance, life and disability insurance, and generous vacation plans.” Employee turnover is more expensive than taking the time to find a good fit, and nonprofit employers understand the importance of investing in a candidate that’s right for their team.

 

The person that presents the passion, professionalism and dedication needed at a nonprofit will find the position pays more than what it says on a paystub. Nonprofit employees passionate about the causes they cater to statistically rate higher when surveyed about overall job satisfaction. Susan Springer, director of workplace assessments for Best Companies Group told the NonProfit Times, “This particular group (nonprofit employees) is very dedicated to the mission: helping people, making a difference, whether locally, nationally or internationally. There’s something that’s intrinsically satisfying about it.”

 

It’s not all sunshine and roses and saving the world though. Employees seeking work at nonprofits are advised to research the organization thoroughly before signing on. No one should assume that nonprofits lack the downsides that any other corporate position presents. Catty coworkers, micromanaging managers, overwork and under appreciation are all present in nonprofit workplaces as well. Interested applicants might want to take a trial run and learn the ropes by volunteering with organizations that peak their interests. It not only offers insight into the way things work but also looks great on any resume whenever a position becomes available.

 

Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos


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  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson •
    Breaking into the non-profit world is tough but not impossible.  Try to volunteer first, if you can and then check around to see what is available.  We wish you all the best.
  • April V
    April V •
    This has given me a whole new avenue of prospective employers to apply to.
  • Thomas S
    Thomas S •
    I would love to do it. Never thought about it even though I have volunteered before
  • Carol F
    Carol F •
    It is simply I want to do something more important with my skills. I volunteer for different associations and always find my time there is with a constant smile and feel good attitude! As a Network Administrtor / Technician that would love to find a more worthwhile way to spend my time.
  • Lindy S
    Lindy S •
    Many people think that non-profit jobs are for tree huggers. That is not true. They're probably more difficult because the individual has to work more with less. I know, I've done it in the past but the "other" rewards can make up for the lack of pay.
  • Cornella A. C
    Cornella A. C •
    This is a breath of fresh air...I've been unemployed for over a year now , not knowing the direction I should go with a business degree that hasn't seen the light of day...I am willing to volunteer or shadow at any rate.  Thanks for this informative piece.
  • Alejandro T
    Alejandro T •
    As a Christian we always work for free, it's nice to help others that help others and just the people who could use a hand. Wether I am in financial trouble or not it's always great to help others.
  • Lan W
    Lan W •
    This is a great article. I've been in IT for over 25 years and I've been looking for an opportunity to make a difference in an organization and in our world.
  • Abigail C
    Abigail C •
    It is interesting learned about the different benefits on non profit organization,  I would not may work for non profit organization if is with competitive benefits.  I love help others.
  • Al A
    Al A •
    thing is i have looked for work at non profits for a while now with no luck.  i have a solid tech background.  I would rather use my skils to be able to help companies like this but there realy is no easy way other than cold calling whihc i am not realy looking to do.
  • Gilbert  R
    Gilbert  R •
    Working for nonprfit organization can be rewarding in that you provide service to humanity and it also allows you to contrbute in a positive way for society and the world at large.
  • Sandra L
    Sandra L •
    Working for a non-profit organization is not new to me since my last position was at a non-profit organization.  The work is very rewarding and you do feel very needed and blessed when you provide assistance to those in need no matter what the job is.  My son and I have volunteered for many years at a soup kitchen and that was very rewarding work.  My work as Help Desk support in a non-profit environment brought many words of appreciation from those with different skills.

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