If you want to work for a non-profit or humanitarian organization while living anywhere in Europe (or working remotely for an NGO based in Europe), this guide explains exactly what to expect and how to win those jobs.
You will learn which roles can be remote, where to look, what skills matter, how to apply, and how to stay legal and professional when working across borders.
What people mean by NGO remote jobs in Europe
Searchers usually want one of three things:
- A list of remote job openings at NGOs that operate in Europe.
- Practical advice on how to get hired for remote roles with NGOs in Europe.
- Information about legal and tax/visa issues when working remotely for European NGOs.
This article covers all three, focusing on useful, actionable steps.
Which NGO roles commonly hire remotely
Many NGOs shifted to flexible and remote work. The most common remote roles include:
- Fundraising & donor relations: managing donor databases, preparing grant applications, running donor communications.
- Communications & content: copywriters, social media managers, content strategists, translators.
- Program management (remote-friendly positions): monitoring & evaluation (M&E), remote project coordination, reporting.
- Research & policy: producing reports, literature reviews, policy briefs.
- Digital & tech: web developers, data analysts, CRM administrators, GIS analysts.
- Finance & administration (partial remote): bookkeeping, payroll, and accounts, often hybrid.
- Human resources & learning: remote recruiters, L&D coordinators, training designers.
Tip: Field roles (logistics, direct service delivery) often need on-site presence; desk-based roles above are likeliest to be remote.
Who hires remote workers? Types of NGOs and employers
- International NGOs (large organizations with offices across countries) often advertise remote desk roles.
- Regional NGOs focused on Europe may hire remote staff for EU-wide projects.
- Small local nonprofits sometimes hire remote freelancers or part-time specialists.
- Think tanks and policy institutes often have remote research or policy analyst positions.
- Social enterprises and charities with digital programs may hire remote marketers, fundraisers, or product managers.
Where to find remote NGO jobs in Europe
Look in these categories of places (use keywords like “remote,” “telework,” “Europe,” and the role name):
- Specialist NGO job boards: job sites dedicated to nonprofits and development.
- General remote job boards: many list NGO positions under “nonprofit” or “social impact.”
- Career pages of NGOs: large NGOs post roles on their websites; check “careers” or “join us.”
- LinkedIn: great for jobs and networking; use location filters like “Europe (Remote).”
- Twitter/X and Facebook groups: follow NGOs, sector recruiters, and remote work communities.
- Freelance platforms: for short contracts (grant writers, M&E consultants, translators).
- University alumni networks and development networks: often share roles not posted publicly.
(When searching, combine role + “remote” + “Europe” to filter effectively.)
How to prepare skills, documents, and portfolio
- Skills to develop
- Clear written communication (reports, emails)
- Project management basics (Familiarity with tools like Asana, Trello, or equivalent)
- Digital tools: Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Slack, Zoom
- Basic M&E or fundraising knowledge, depending on role
- Foreign language(s): a major plus for Europe (e.g., French, Spanish, German)
- Documents to prepare
- CV tailored to NGOs (focus on impact, measurable results)
- Short cover letter template that you can customise
- Work samples or portfolio (reports, campaigns, code snippets, translations)
- References or recommendation letters
- Technical setup
- Reliable internet and a quiet workspace
- Clear video conferencing setup (good mic/camera)
- Familiarity with remote collaboration tools
Writing a CV and cover letter that convert
- CV: Keep it concise (2 pages max), use bullet points that show outcomes (e.g., “Raised €50k through X campaign”), and include a short summary that mentions remote readiness.
- Cover letter: One page. Show passion for the NGO’s mission, explain remote work experience, and show how your skills will deliver outcomes. Mention time-zone flexibility if relevant.
Applying and interviewing remote-specific tips
- Apply early and customise: each application to the role and organization.
- Show remote experience: describe how you managed tasks, collaboration, and deadlines while remote.
- Prepare for video interviews: test camera/mic, use light that shows your face, be on time.
- Demonstrate culture fit: NGOs want people who align with values; prepare examples of teamwork and integrity.
- Ask thoughtful questions: about team structure, reporting lines, remote onboarding, and opportunities to travel if required.
Legal, tax, and visa basics; general guidance
Working remotely for an NGO in Europe can involve legal and tax implications depending on where you live and where the employer is registered. General pointers:
- If you live in a European country and work remotely for a European NGO, local employment and tax rules usually apply.
- If you live outside Europe and work remotely, you may be a contractor rather than an employee; clarify status, taxes, and benefits.
- Ask the employer about contract type (employment vs. consultancy), tax withholding, and social security contributions.
- When in doubt, consult a local tax advisor or employment lawyer; NGOs often have HR teams that can explain company policies.
(Do not use this article as legal advice.)
Typical salary and contract types (what to expect)
- Remote roles can be full-time employee contracts, part-time, or fixed-term consultancy contracts.
- Compensation varies broadly by NGO size, role, and location. International NGOs usually have standardized pay scales; small charities may pay less but offer flexibility.
- For freelance/consultant roles, negotiate deliverables, timelines, and payment currency.
Day-to-day: what working remotely for an NGO looks like
- Regular project meetings (weekly or biweekly) via video call.
- Asynchronous work across time zones; expect clear written updates.
- Collaboration in shared documents and task boards.
- Mix of independent research, writing, coordination, and reporting.
How to stand out and get promoted
- Deliver reliable, timely work and over-communicate when remote.
- Learn the NGO’s mission and show initiative on mission-related ideas.
- Build relationships across teams; join informal chats and virtual coffee calls.
- Keep learning; short courses in M&E, grant writing, or digital fundraising help.
Quick checklist for your job hunt
- Identify 3-5 target NGOs and follow them (LinkedIn, Twitter, website).
- Set job alerts on NGO and remote job boards.
- Tailor CV and cover letter for each application.
- Prepare a short work sample that matches common NGO needs (e.g., a 1-page fundraising pitch, a short monitoring plan).
- Prepare 3 strong references.
FAQs
1. Can I work remotely for a European NGO if I don’t live in Europe?
Often yes, many NGOs hire international remote staff or consultants. Expect differences in contract type and legal/tax arrangements.
2. Which languages help most?
English is essential. French, Spanish, German, and other European languages increase your chances for region-specific roles.
3. Are remote NGO jobs stable?
It depends. Long-term roles exist, but many NGOs use fixed-term grants, so some positions are project-based. Building a track record helps with stability.
