As a computer science major, you may have set your sights on traditional tech roles in software development, data science, or systems engineering. However, if you’re passionate about using your skills for social good, the social impact and nonprofit sectors offer meaningful opportunities to apply your talents in ways that directly benefit communities and address pressing global challenges. Here’s how to navigate this career path:
Why Work in Social Impact?
Nonprofits and social enterprises leverage technology to tackle critical issues like education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and poverty alleviation. By bringing your computer science expertise to these organizations, you can:
- Develop tools to enhance organizational efficiency
- Create platforms that increase access to resources and services
- Leverage data to drive impactful decision-making
- Ensure cybersecurity for sensitive community data
Where to Start Your Job Search
Research Organizations Aligned with Your Values
Look for nonprofits, NGOs, and social enterprises whose missions resonate with you. Here are a few job search engines that specialize in job postings for social impact roles:
- Idealist – job search engine for nonprofit organizations. Use search filters like job function and issue area to refine your search to find the roles you’re looking for
- Tech Jobs for Good – search jobs at mission-driven companies in the US looking to hire tech talent
- NTEN – look for jobs and short-term technology opportunities at organizations working for social change
- The GIIN – for job openings from the impact investing industry
- All Hands – upload your resume to their talent pool, where over 300 of the most cutting-edge civic engagement, social impact, advocacy, and campaigning organizations across the U.S. will be able to see your profile. Then, use their job board to search for opportunities.
- All Tech is Human – join their talent pool and search their responsible tech job board
Explore Fellowships and Internships
- Programs like Code for America and TechChange offer unique opportunities to gain hands-on experience in social impact tech.
- Tech Jobs for Good’s Guide to Fellowship and Internship Opportunities
- Build4good is a paid mentorship program that matches college students who are majoring in computer science, integrated digital media, UI/UX design, or other technology-related fields to mission-driven nonprofit organizations with technology-specific project needs
Get Connected to the Professional Community
Use platforms like The Herd and LinkedIn to search for and find alumni working in meaningful tech roles. Connect with them and have conversations to learn more about navigating this path, gain insights into the field, and advice for your search.