Nonprofit Job Title Descriptions
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) "Career Guide to Industries," approximately 1.3 million people were working for grantmaking, advocacy and civic organizations in 2008. Whereas corporations focus on creating products and services, nonprofit organizations focus on helping communities and addressing pressing public concerns. The BLS predicts that shifting demographics and a growing population will spur demand for nonprofit professionals who can use their expertise to increase funding and visibility for their organizations.
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Public Relations Specialist
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Similar to public relations (PR) roles in corporations and governmental organizations, PR specialists handle publicity for nonprofit organizations. PR professionals build and nurture positive relations with journalists, analysts, governmental agencies, consumer and community groups and investors. A major part of their job is to write and place press releases in magazines, publications and media channels that promote or support their nonprofit's mission.
Grant Writer
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To receive funding from companies and organizations, nonprofits must often submit proposals to donors. Grant writers research, identify and select funding sources that support their organization's goals and initiatives. They also prepare, write and submit the materials requested by the donor. In addition, grant writers track and analyze success rates for submissions to measure performance and assist with budget planning.
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Fundraising Coordinator
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Strong event planning and project management abilities are needed for fundraising coordinator positions. These professionals put together events and campaigns that raise money or solicit gifts from individual donors. Fundraising coordinators also organize cold-calling and direct mail campaigns, as well as apply for grants to increase funding for their organization.
Education
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Employers usually require PR specialists, grant writers and fundraising coordinators to have at least a bachelor's degree. Marketing, journalism or creative writing majors are helpful preparation for PR careers. College programs that emphasize strong writing, researching and analytical skills are beneficial for grant writing jobs. However, employers prefer grant writing candidates with three to five years of previous work experience. Fundraising coordinators should also have a college degree and previous training or expertise in fund development.
Salary
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According to a November 2010 PayScale report, PR specialists in nonprofit organizations earned average salaries ranging between $32,208 and $46,161 per year. PayScale states that nonprofit grant writers made an average salary ranging between $33,772 and $48,116 as of November 2010. The website also reports that average annual wages for fundraising coordinators in nonprofits fell between $31,057 and $41,129 as of October 2010.
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References
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