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Who's Hiring? Explore Great Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree

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Kyle Kaplan

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In today's competitive job market, the traditional path of obtaining a bachelor's degree isn't the only route to launching a successful career. In fact, up to 72% of employers now recognize that while a degree can be valuable, it is not the only way for candidates to gain the desired skills that would make them great fit for many roles.

On-the-job learning, certification programs, community college courses, and even military service can provide valuable experience for job seekers to leverage when building their careers. 

This week, we’re highlighting roles with organizations that foster community well-being across the United States and don’t require a college degree. By removing traditional barriers and valuing diverse backgrounds and experiences, these nonprofits are aligning their mission for a better world with more inclusive hiring practices—discover your next great role below! 

1. California Community Foundation, Los Angeles, CA

The California Community Foundation (CCF)’s mission is to lead positive systemic change that strengthens Los Angeles communities and build a future where all Angelenos have the opportunity to contribute to the productivity, health, and well-being of the region. They are hiring a Program Manager, Young Adult Family Fund to work in a hybrid capacity in or near Los Angeles, CA. 

2. City of Portland, Portland, OR

Dedicated to serving the common good of its people and the greater region, the City of Portland operates bureaus that oversee essential government functions such as fire services, law enforcement, water supply management, wastewater treatment, stormwater management, environmental resource management, urban planning, transportation, and parks. They are hiring a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Training Analyst (Analyst II-CPPW) to work on-site in or near Portland, OR. 

3. The New York Community Trust, New York, NY

The New York Community Trust was established in 1924 and serves as New York City's community foundation, alongside its two divisions—the Westchester Community Foundation and the Long Island Community Foundation—the Trust awards grants across a wide spectrum of charitable activities crucial to the well-being and vitality of the region. They are hiring an Executive Assistant to the President to work on-site in or near New York, NY. 

4. DOVE, Inc., Massachusetts, US

Since its inception in 1978, DOVE has provided refuge to nearly 5,000 families, responded to over 45,000 calls via its 24-hour hotline, and supported more than 3,000 clients through community-based services. They are hiring a Database Administrator to work part-time and in a hybrid capacity in or near Massachusetts, US. 

5. Washington Trails Association, Seattle, WA

The mission of WTA is to preserve, enhance, and promote hiking opportunities in Washington State through collaboration, education, advocacy, and volunteer trail maintenance. They are hiring a Donor Relations Officer to work in a hybrid capacity in or near Seattle, WA. 

6. Cleveland Animal Protective League, Cleveland, OH

The Cleveland Animal Protective League’s mission is to foster compassion and end animal suffering. Incorporated in 1913, we are an independent, nonprofit humane society located in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood. They are hiring an Annual Fund and Database Manager to work on-site in or near Cleveland, OH.

7. Animal Charity Evaluators, Remote Role

Animal Charity Evaluators (ACE) is a nonprofit organization that employs evidence and reason to assist individuals who wish to support animals. Motivated by the extensive but preventable suffering endured by trillions of animals on farms and in the wild, ACE aims to foster a world where all animals can thrive, irrespective of their species. They are hiring a Communications Director to work remotely. 

8. Good+Foundation, New York, NY

Founded by Jessica Seinfeld, Good+Foundation (formerly Baby Buggy) is a nonprofit organization that partners with a national network of leading programs to break the cycle of family poverty through the power of essential children’s products and life-changing family services. They are hiring a Director of Marketing & Events to work in a hybrid capacity in or near New York, NY.

9. StriveTogether, Inc., Remote Role

StriveTogether leads a national movement across 70 communities aimed at improving outcomes for children by coaching and connecting community partnerships. The organization focuses particularly on eliminating disparities for children from marginalized backgrounds, including children of color and those from low-income families. They are hiring an Associate, Insights and Analytics to work remotely.

10. Elemental Excelerator, New York, US

Elemental Excelerator is a nonprofit investor focused on scaling climate solutions for profound community impact. With a 14-year track record, the organization invests in companies that are pioneering critical solutions to urgent climate challenges, aiming to create cleaner, healthier, and safer neighborhoods and homes. They are hiring a Director of Impact to work in a hybrid capacity in New York. 

11. National Black Worker Center, Remote Role

The National Black Worker Center (NBWC) was established in 2011 to empower Black workers in enhancing their rights and elevating job quality across significant employment sectors. NBWC educates about the detrimental effects of low-wage work and unemployment on Black communities and advocates against racial discrimination in hiring and employment policies and practices. They are hiring a Regional Lead Organizer to work remotely. 

12. Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR), Remote Role

Established in 1999, CEPR promotes democratic debate on critical economic and social issues affecting people's lives. Through professional research and public education, CEPR equips the public to make informed policy choices. Their research addresses key gaps in understanding economic and social challenges and the impacts of policies, both nationally and globally. They are hiring a Director of People & Operations to work remotely. 

13. Austin Community Foundation, Austin, TX

Engaged in community convening, problem-solving, and asset development, the Austin Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life across its service area. It operates as a partner, advocate, and activist organization, cultivating community resources, distributing grants, collaborating with other donors, sponsoring significant projects, and fostering philanthropic engagement throughout central Texas. They are hiring a Scholarship Program Manager to work in a hybrid capacity in or near Austin, TX. 

14. University City District (UCD), Philadelphia, PA

UCD is a collaborative network of academic and medical institutions, businesses, community organizations, and residents committed to cultivating a dynamic and vibrant University City. They are hiring a Recruitment Coordinator to work in a hybrid capacity in or near Philadelphia, PA.

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Clicked one of these organizations only to find that they’re no longer hiring? To keep you apprised of the latest in social-impact opportunities, all listings on idealist.org have a predetermined expiration date.

If you’ve missed the boat on any of the above opportunities, don’t forget to explore our latest job listings to find jobs at organizations with jobs that don’t require a degree.

Kyle Kaplan profile image

Kyle Kaplan

I'm a Project Manager for the Idealist Marketing and Communications team. Besides overseeing operations from behind the scenes and providing general administrative support, I love spending time meditating, writing, and caring for animals.

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