Nonprofit Support Staff Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of charitable and social work, the importance of nonprofit support staff has never been more paramount.

As societal needs continue to evolve, the demand for dedicated individuals who can underpin, enhance, and secure our nonprofit organizations grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from nonprofit support staff?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the inner dynamics of nonprofit work,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable nonprofit support staff job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Nonprofit Support Staff Duties and Responsibilities

Nonprofit Support Staff play a critical role in the operations of a nonprofit organization.

They perform a variety of tasks including administrative duties, assisting staff and volunteers, helping with fundraising efforts, and supporting the organization’s mission.

The duties and responsibilities of a Nonprofit Support Staff member may include:

• Providing administrative support to staff, volunteers, and board members
• Assisting in the planning and execution of fundraising events and campaigns
• Maintaining and updating donor databases
• Processing donations and sending acknowledgment letters
• Assisting with the development of marketing and promotional materials
• Supporting the delivery of programs and services
• Maintaining and organizing office systems and processes
• Researching and applying for grants and other funding opportunities
• Communicating with donors, volunteers, and the public via phone, email, and social media
• Preparing reports and presentations for staff and board meetings

 

Nonprofit Support Staff Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Nonprofit Support Staff member to assist with the day-to-day tasks essential to the operation of our organization.

Nonprofit Support Staff responsibilities include providing administrative assistance, organizing events, coordinating with volunteers, and supporting various functional areas within the organization such as fundraising, marketing, and project management.

The ideal candidate should be organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about contributing to our nonprofit mission.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist with administrative tasks such as filing, typing, copying, binding, scanning etc.
• Organize and schedule appointments and meetings
• Support team members in project management and organization
• Assist in the preparation of regularly scheduled reports
• Coordinate with volunteers and manage volunteer schedules
• Help to organize and execute events
• Contribute to team effort by accomplishing related tasks as needed

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience in an administrative or support role
• Proficiency in MS Office (MS Excel and MS PowerPoint, in particular)
• Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritize work
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Attention to detail and problem-solving skills
• High School degree; additional qualification as an Administrative assistant or Secretary will be a plus

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Nonprofit Support Staff
• Work Environment: Office setting. Some weekend and evening hours may be required for special events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Office Manager or Executive Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as budgetary considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Nonprofit Support Staff Do?

Nonprofit Support Staff typically work for nonprofit organizations, aiding in achieving their mission by providing necessary administrative and operational support.

They work closely with various teams within the organization, including management, volunteers, and service recipients.

Depending on the organization’s size and nature, their tasks can be wide-ranging, from administrative duties to direct program support.

Administratively, they might be responsible for managing databases, coordinating schedules, organizing meetings, handling communications, and processing paperwork.

They may also assist in managing the organization’s finances, including bookkeeping, budgeting, and generating financial reports.

In program support, they may be involved in planning and executing events, coordinating volunteer efforts, and providing direct services to the organization’s clients or beneficiaries.

This can include tasks like setting up for fundraising events, coordinating the logistics for volunteer activities, or running specific program initiatives.

Additionally, they may also aid in community outreach efforts, helping raise awareness about the organization’s mission, promoting events, and building relationships with donors and community partners.

Nonprofit Support Staff play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of the organization, contributing to the overall effectiveness in serving their cause.

 

Nonprofit Support Staff Qualifications and Skills

Nonprofit Support Staff need a variety of skills and qualifications to effectively support and enhance the work of a nonprofit organization, such as:

• Organizational skills to manage various tasks, schedules, and details efficiently and effectively
• Communication skills to effectively interact and liaise with staff, volunteers, donors and community members
• Customer service skills to provide assistance to the general public and respond to inquiries
• Technical skills to manage databases, maintain websites and use various software programs relevant to the organization
• Problem-solving skills to address and resolve issues that may arise within the organization or with external partners
• Time management skills to balance multiple tasks, meet deadlines and prioritize effectively
• Passionate about the mission and vision of the nonprofit organization to positively represent the organization to stakeholders
• Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment but also independently when necessary

 

Nonprofit Support Staff Experience Requirements

Nonprofit Support Staff often begin their careers with a degree in a relevant field such as nonprofit management, social work, or business administration.

However, substantial work experience in a similar support role can also be a solid foundation for this position.

Entry-level nonprofit support staff may need 1 to 2 years of experience, typically gained through internships, part-time roles, or volunteer work in the nonprofit sector.

This experience helps to familiarize them with the unique dynamics and challenges faced by nonprofits.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience are often well-versed in nonprofit operations, including fundraising, program development, community outreach, and administrative tasks.

They have likely honed their skills in donor relations, project coordination, and may even have experience in grant writing.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have a proven track record in handling multiple tasks and responsibilities in a nonprofit setting.

They may have leadership experience and are likely ready for positions requiring more responsibility, such as team leads or department heads.

Their experience may also include strategic planning, budgeting, and managing teams or volunteers.

 

Nonprofit Support Staff Education and Training Requirements

Nonprofit Support Staff usually require a high school diploma or equivalent, although many roles may require a bachelor’s degree in social work, public administration, or a related field.

Roles that require specific knowledge or skills, such as fundraising or grant writing, may require further specialized training or certification.

Experience in volunteer work and community service can be particularly useful in this field, and many nonprofits look for candidates with a demonstrated commitment to the organization’s cause or mission.

While not always required, a master’s degree in nonprofit management, public administration, or a related discipline can be beneficial, particularly for those aspiring to leadership roles within the organization.

Ongoing professional development and training in areas such as fundraising, volunteer management, and program development can also be beneficial.

Nonprofit support staff should also be familiar with relevant laws and regulations, and may need to attend training or workshops to stay updated on changes in the field.

In addition, many nonprofits value soft skills such as communication, empathy, and problem-solving, which are often developed through experience rather than formal education.

 

Nonprofit Support Staff Salary Expectations

The average salary for Nonprofit Support Staff is around $34,000 (USD) per year.

However, the exact earnings can depend on the nature of the nonprofit, the employee’s specific role, the geographical location, and years of experience in the field.

 

Nonprofit Support Staff Job Description FAQs

What skills are needed for a Nonprofit Support Staff role?

Nonprofit Support Staff should have excellent organizational and multitasking skills, as they may be required to handle numerous tasks simultaneously.

Good interpersonal and communication skills are also crucial, as the role involves interacting with volunteers, beneficiaries, and other staff members.

Proficiency with computer applications, such as word processing and spreadsheet software, is also beneficial.

 

Do Nonprofit Support Staff need a degree?

A degree is not necessarily required for a Nonprofit Support Staff role, but having one in a relevant field such as Social Work, Community Development, or Business Administration can be advantageous.

However, some organizations may prioritize experience in nonprofit work or volunteer service over formal education.

 

What should you look for in a Nonprofit Support Staff resume?

The resume should highlight any experience in volunteer work or working with nonprofit organizations.

It should also demonstrate organizational skills, administrative experience, and the ability to work well with a team.

Any additional skills, such as proficiency in a second language or experience with grant writing, can also be beneficial depending on the specific role and organization.

 

What qualities make a good Nonprofit Support Staff?

A good Nonprofit Support Staff is empathetic, as they often work directly with beneficiaries who may be facing challenging circumstances.

They are also reliable, capable of working independently, and have a strong sense of social responsibility.

Being adaptable and flexible is also important, as tasks and responsibilities may change regularly.

 

How challenging is it to hire Nonprofit Support Staff?

Hiring for Nonprofit Support Staff can be challenging due to the unique combination of skills and qualities required for the job.

Many nonprofits operate with limited resources, so finding candidates who are passionate about the mission and ready to work in such environments can be a challenge.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we have unraveled the mysteries behind what it truly means to be a nonprofit support staff member.

Guess what?

It’s not just about organizing events or managing databases.

It’s about shaping the future of philanthropy, one task at a time.

With our comprehensive nonprofit support staff job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take a leap.

But why stop at just being ready?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating accurate job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every task contributes to a larger mission.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become a Nonprofit Support Staff (Complete Guide)

The Ultimate Stress Test: Jobs That Are Not for Everyone!

The Job Trend Tidal Wave: Careers Sweeping the Market

Path to Prosperity: How to Secure the Highest Paying Jobs This Year!

Shocking but True: Unveiling the Least Paying Jobs in the Modern Economy