Not-for-profit sector employers

Not-for-profit organisations aim to help the community rather than make a profit. This sector includes organisations that work in the areas of social care, health care, education and community justice. The not-for-profit sector is also known as the voluntary and community sector (VCS) and, while some the opportunities are unpaid, there are plenty of varied career opportunities within not-for-profit organisations.

Why work in the not-for-profit sector?

Most people think there is no money in the not-for-profit sector. This is not true as not-for-profit refers to the company as a whole, not the employees. While many organisations need volunteers, there are plenty of opportunities for fully paid work. It may suit your values to work in this sector as it gives back to the community.

Types of jobs in the not-for-profit sector

There are many types of roles within not-for-profit organisations. You may be able to work as an advice worker, fundraising officer or in training and development. Just as with any other business, not-for-profit organisations also need professionals such as human resource officers, IT specialists and marketing and finance managers.

• AGCAS sector guide to Charity and Development Work (pdf 119kb)

Finding not-for-profit jobs

Volunteering in a not-for-profit organisation can often lead to a paid position.

Although many jobs in this sector are advertised in the same way as private sector jobs, there are some websites that specialise in vacancies in the not-for-profit sector:

• CharityJOB
• Charity People
• Goodmoves
• Voluntary Sector Jobs
• Volunteering England
• Work Opportunities in the Voluntary Sector

A full list of all registered not-for-profit organisations in the UK is available on the Charity Commission website.