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If you’ve ever searched online for a “nonprofit treasurer job description,” you’ve probably noticed the same problem: nearly every article looks identical. They list out bullet points, use vague wording, and leave you with something that feels more like a compliance document than a tool to actually attract a strong candidate.
But here’s the truth: a great job description isn’t just about filling a seat — it’s about inspiring the right person to raise their hand. And when it comes to nonprofits, this matters even more, because treasurers often play a pivotal role in keeping finances transparent, compliant, and aligned with the mission.
Before we dive in, I recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/. That guide explains why generic job posts fail, and more importantly, how to craft descriptions that connect with real people.
In this article, we’ll go deeper into the nonprofit treasurer role, show you examples of great (and not-so-great) job descriptions, and give you ready-to-use templates that you can adapt for your organization.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
What A Nonprofit Treasurer Actually Does- Their Duties Explained
At its core, a nonprofit treasurer is the financial steward of the organization. They’re the board member (or officer) who makes sure money is handled responsibly, transparently, and in alignment with the nonprofit’s mission.
That means they don’t just look at numbers on a spreadsheet — they provide oversight, ask tough questions, and help guide leadership in making sound financial decisions. A good treasurer balances two things:
- Compliance and accountability (making sure reports, budgets, and audits are accurate and meet legal standards).
- Mission-driven guidance (ensuring every financial decision supports the nonprofit’s long-term goals).
In plain terms: the treasurer is both the watchdog (protecting funds and ensuring nothing slips through the cracks) and the strategic partner (helping leadership understand what the numbers mean for the mission).
For smaller nonprofits, the treasurer might roll up their sleeves—handling bookkeeping, reconciling accounts, or preparing tax forms. In larger organizations, they focus more on oversight—working with staff, accountants, or committees to ensure strong financial health.
Two Great Nonprofit Treasurer Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: Experienced Nonprofit Treasurer
Job Title: Treasurer – Board of Directors at BrightPath Literacy Foundation
Location: Remote (HQ: Denver, CO)
Type: Volunteer Board Role | Approx. 6–8 hours per month
🎥 A quick word from our team
(Insert Loom or YouTube link here — e.g., a 1-minute video from the Executive Director or Board Chair sharing why this role matters and how the treasurer supports the mission.)
About BrightPath Literacy Foundation
BrightPath is a nonprofit dedicated to closing the literacy gap in underserved communities. Since 2010, we’ve partnered with schools, libraries, and community centers to provide reading programs, free tutoring, and access to thousands of books. Our board plays a hands-on role in ensuring every decision we make supports our mission of empowering lifelong learners.
What You’ll Be Doing (Key Responsibilities)
- Provide financial oversight and guidance to the board.
- Review monthly financial statements and ensure accuracy.
- Oversee budgeting, audits, and compliance with nonprofit regulations.
- Serve as chair of the Finance Committee and collaborate with the Executive Director.
- Present financial reports at quarterly board meetings in plain, actionable language.
What We’re Looking For (Requirements)
- 5+ years in accounting, finance, or related fields (CPA or nonprofit finance experience a plus).
- Strong knowledge of nonprofit compliance and reporting requirements (IRS Form 990, audits, etc.).
- Ability to translate complex financial information into clear insights for board members.
- Commitment to BrightPath’s mission and values.
Perks & Benefits
- Expand your professional network by collaborating with nonprofit leaders and community partners.
- Gain meaningful board leadership experience that strengthens your governance portfolio.
- Contribute your skills to a mission-driven cause that directly impacts literacy outcomes.
- Recognition on BrightPath’s website and at annual events as a key board leader.
- Opportunity to shape the financial sustainability and growth of a nonprofit that matters.
Why Join Us?
As treasurer, you’ll help ensure that every dollar we raise and spend drives real impact. This is an opportunity to use your financial expertise for good—shaping programs that directly improve literacy for thousands of children and adults.
How to Apply
If you want to put your financial skills to work for a cause that matters, we’d love to hear from you. Apply through WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link].
✅ Option 2: Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Nonprofit Treasurer
Job Title: Treasurer (Entry-Level, Training Provided) – Board of Directors at BrightPath Literacy Foundation
Location: Remote (HQ: Denver, CO)
Type: Volunteer Board Role | Approx. 4–6 hours per month
🎥 A quick word from our team
(Insert Loom or YouTube link here — e.g., a friendly video from a current board member explaining how they started without prior nonprofit finance experience and grew into the role.)
About BrightPath Literacy Foundation
BrightPath is a nonprofit dedicated to closing the literacy gap in underserved communities. Since 2010, we’ve worked with schools, libraries, and volunteers to create programs that improve reading skills and provide free access to books. We believe passionate people—whether seasoned professionals or new to nonprofit service—are the backbone of our board.
What You’ll Be Doing (Key Responsibilities)
- Learn and gradually take ownership of reviewing financial statements.
- Assist with annual budgeting and fundraising event oversight.
- Partner with the Finance Committee to ensure compliance and transparency.
- Help communicate financial health in plain language to other board members.
- Receive training and mentorship from the outgoing treasurer and finance team.
What We’re Looking For (Requirements)
- Some background in accounting, bookkeeping, or finance (professional or volunteer).
- Strong organizational skills and willingness to learn nonprofit compliance basics.
- Clear communicator who isn’t afraid to ask questions and learn on the job.
- Passion for BrightPath’s mission and enthusiasm for nonprofit governance.
Perks & Benefits
- Receive hands-on mentorship and training from experienced board members.
- Build real-world nonprofit finance and governance experience (great for early-career professionals).
- Strengthen your résumé with volunteer leadership experience.
- Connect with a diverse group of professionals, educators, and community leaders.
- Make a visible impact by helping shape how funds are managed and used to serve families.
Why Join Us?
This role is ideal for someone early in their financial career—or anyone looking to bring their skills into the nonprofit space. You’ll gain hands-on board experience, receive mentorship, and make a meaningful difference while building your expertise in nonprofit finance.
How to Apply
Ready to grow with us? Apply through WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link].
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Breakdown of Why These Posts Work
Both versions of the treasurer job description (experienced and entry-level) are designed to attract the right candidates while reflecting the values of the nonprofit. Here’s why they stand out compared to the generic posts you’ll see online:
1. Clear, Specific Titles
Instead of a vague “Treasurer” or “Board Member,” the titles clarify:
- The role (“Treasurer – Board of Directors”)
- The organization (BrightPath Literacy Foundation)
- The level (experienced vs. entry-level with training provided)
This specificity instantly signals who the post is for, which filters in the right candidates and filters out those just browsing casually.
2. Warm Intros With Context
Each post begins with a short human intro, reinforced by a video from the team. A simple Loom or YouTube clip from the Executive Director or a current board member makes the opportunity feel real, not abstract. Top candidates want to know the people they’ll work with, not just the role.
3. Transparent Perks & Benefits
Even though board positions are often volunteer-based, these job descriptions highlight non-monetary perks such as:
- Networking and leadership development
- Mentorship and hands-on training (for entry-level)
- Recognition within the community
- The satisfaction of creating real impact
Transparency here signals respect for the candidate’s time and contributions.
4. Human-Centered Responsibilities
Instead of listing dry tasks, the responsibilities are phrased in terms of impact:
- “Ensure every dollar we raise and spend drives real impact.”
- “Help communicate financial health in plain language to board members.”
This approach connects duties to the mission, showing candidates why their work matters.
5. Respectful Application Process
Both templates close with a clear and simple process: apply via WorkScreen. This signals efficiency, fairness, and transparency (instead of the dreaded “only shortlisted candidates will be contacted”).
6. Inclusive Role Variations
By offering two versions—one for experienced treasurers and one for entry-level/willing-to-train—the nonprofit shows it values passion as much as credentials. This broadens the candidate pool without lowering standards.
7. Authentic, Human Tone
Nowhere does it sound like a legal document or stiff compliance checklist. Instead, it feels conversational, approachable, and aligned with the organization’s values. This tone is what makes candidates lean in rather than scroll past.
Example of a Bad Nonprofit Treasurer Job Description
❌ Bad Job Post Example
Job Title: Treasurer
Organization: Local Nonprofit Organization
Location: Remote
Type: Volunteer Position
Job Summary
The treasurer is responsible for overseeing the financial activities of the organization. The role involves monitoring accounts, preparing reports, and ensuring compliance with financial requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Monitor all financial transactions.
- Prepare budgets and reports.
- Attend board meetings.
- Ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
Requirements
- Background in finance, accounting, or related field.
- Good organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send a résumé and cover letter to info@localnonprofit.org. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Fails
- Generic Job Title
“Treasure” on its own tells you nothing about the organization, the mission, or the impact of the role. It’s cold and forgettable. - No Personality or Mission Connection
The description reads like it was copied from a compliance manual. There’s no mention of why the role matters, who the nonprofit serves, or how the treasurer supports the mission. - Lack of Transparency
There’s no information about perks, benefits, or what the candidate will gain from serving. That makes the role feel one-sided: we take your skills, you get nothing in return. - Dry, Broad Responsibilities
“Monitor accounts” or “prepare reports” could describe any finance role anywhere. There’s no emphasis on impact, outcomes, or how these tasks help the nonprofit thrive.
Cold Application Process
Ending with “only shortlisted applicants will be contacted” feels dismissive. It suggests that applicants won’t hear back unless they’re chosen, which discourages strong candidates who value respectful communication.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Treasurer Job Post Stand Out
Most organizations stop at responsibilities and requirements. But if you want to attract thoughtful, mission-driven candidates, you need to go further. Here are a few advanced touches that set your job post apart:
🛡️ 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Many candidates worry about scams in nonprofit job postings. A simple statement shows integrity and builds trust:
“We take the privacy and security of all applicants seriously. BrightPath Literacy Foundation will never ask for payment, bank details, or sensitive personal financial information at any stage of the hiring process.”
This immediately reassures candidates that they’re dealing with a legitimate, transparent organization.
🌴 2. Mention Leave Days or Flexibility
Even volunteer roles demand time, so acknowledging flexibility shows respect:
“We understand our board members have full lives and commitments outside of BrightPath. We encourage flexibility and make sure meeting times are set well in advance to respect your schedule.”
This helps candidates feel supported rather than overburdened.
📈 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Especially relevant for entry-level treasurers, but also valuable for experienced ones looking to expand their governance portfolio:
“New to nonprofit finance? We’ll provide training, mentorship, and resources so you can grow in confidence as you take on this leadership role.”
This signals that you’re investing in the candidate, not just extracting value from them.
🎥 4. Add a Video for Trust & Connection
Words alone can feel corporate. A short Loom or YouTube video from your board chair or executive director adds warmth:
- A welcome message explaining why the treasurer role matters.
- A quick overview of the organization’s impact.
- A personal invitation to join the mission.
It makes the role feel human and relational, not transactional.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
🟢 5. Show How You Treat Candidates
Respect is rare in the hiring process — so when you show it, candidates notice:
“We reply to every application, even if we don’t move forward. We believe every applicant deserves acknowledgment and clarity.”
This small detail alone differentiates your nonprofit from 90% of others.
Should You Use AI To Write Your Job Description
Lately, it feels like everyone is turning to AI to generate job descriptions. Even big hiring platforms are adding one-click JD generators. On the surface, it seems like a time-saver… but here’s the problem:
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
If you let AI write your treasurer job description without any context, you’ll end up with something that looks polished but falls flat. Here’s why:
- The post will sound generic — like every other template online.
- It won’t capture your mission, culture, or values, which are critical in nonprofit hiring.
- It attracts the wrong candidates — people skimming for “any role,” not those committed to your cause.
- It risks making a bad first impression of your nonprofit. Your job description is often the first thing a potential board member sees.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI
AI can be a useful tool — if you treat it like a writing assistant, not the author.
Instead of:
“Write me a job description for a nonprofit treasurer.”
Try:
“Help me write a job post for our nonprofit, BrightPath Literacy Foundation. We’re hiring a Treasurer to help oversee finances and guide strategy. Our mission is to close the literacy gap for underserved communities. We value accountability, collaboration, and transparency. Here are the responsibilities, perks, and benefits I’ve outlined [paste bullet points]…”
By giving AI the raw ingredients — your mission, values, specific responsibilities, and tone — you can let it polish your writing, improve clarity, and structure the post without losing your unique voice.
👉 Bottom line: AI is the paintbrush, not the artist. Use it to sharpen your words, not to replace your story.
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Need Quick Copy-Paste Job Description Templates?
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description (Culture-First Style)
Job Title: Treasurer – Board of Directors at [Your Nonprofit Name]
Location: [Remote/City, State]
Type: Volunteer Board Role | Approx. [X] hours per month
🎥 Insert short video link from your Executive Director or Board Chair here.
About Us
At [Your Nonprofit Name], we believe financial transparency is the backbone of trust. Our mission is [insert mission statement in plain English]. We’re looking for a treasurer who’s not just good with numbers, but also passionate about making sure every dollar moves our mission forward.
What You’ll Do
- Review monthly financials and ensure accuracy.
- Help guide the budgeting process.
- Communicate financial health in clear, simple terms to other board members.
- Oversee compliance, reporting, and audits.
What You’ll Bring
- Background in finance, accounting, or related field.
- Strong integrity and commitment to accountability.
- Ability to explain financial information in plain English.
Perks & Benefits
- Build leadership and governance experience.
- Expand your professional network.
- Play a critical role in a mission-driven organization.
- Recognition on our website and annual events.
📥 How to Apply
Apply through WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]. We review every application and promise to get back to you.
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
Job Title: Treasurer – Board of Directors
Organization: [Your Nonprofit Name]
Location: [Remote/City, State]
Type: Volunteer Board Role | Approx. [X] hours per month
Job Brief
We’re seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Directors. This individual will oversee the financial health of our nonprofit, ensure compliance with legal standards, and provide clear guidance to support our mission of [insert mission].
Responsibilities
- Oversee budgeting, audits, and compliance reporting.
- Present financial reports to the board.
- Chair the finance committee and collaborate with the Executive Director.
- Ensure transparent and accurate accounting.
Requirements
- Experience in finance, accounting, or nonprofit management.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Understanding of nonprofit compliance (IRS Form 990, audits, etc.) preferred.
Perks & Benefits
- Opportunity to shape the financial future of a mission-driven nonprofit.
- Professional recognition and governance experience.
- Flexible schedule with meetings set in advance.
- Access to a network of nonprofit leaders and partners.
📥 How to Apply
Submit your application through WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]. We respect every applicant’s time and will provide clear communication throughout the process.
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Writing a thoughtful, human-centered job description is only half the battle.
The next challenge is sorting through applicants to figure out who’s genuinely committed—and who just copy-pasted a résumé or used an AI tool to mass-apply.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
WorkScreen helps nonprofits and growing organizations:
- ✅ Quickly identify your most promising candidates.
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot the people who actually fit your mission and role. - ✅ Go beyond résumés with one-click skill tests.
Workscreen allows you to easily administer one-click skill tests. This way you can Assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically. - ✅ Filter out low-effort or AI-generated applications.
Workscreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants—including those who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
Instead of spending hours sifting through résumés, you can focus your time on connecting with the people who are truly excited to contribute.
Ready to make your hiring process smarter and more efficient?
FAQ
A treasurer is a member of the nonprofit’s board (or an officer) who provides ongoing financial oversight. They help review budgets, monitor cash flow, ensure compliance, and guide leadership in making sound financial decisions.
An auditor, on the other hand, is an independent third party (outside the organization) who reviews the nonprofit’s financial records to ensure accuracy and compliance. The auditor doesn’t manage finances; they validate that the treasurer and organization are handling money properly.
In short: the treasurer manages and oversees the finances, while the auditor verifies them.
In most nonprofits, treasurers are unpaid volunteer board members. Their “compensation” is the opportunity to serve a mission they care about, expand their professional network, and gain governance experience.
Some larger nonprofits or associations with significant budgets may offer stipends, reimburse expenses, or cover training/conference fees—but it’s rare for a nonprofit treasurer to receive a salary.
Key skills include:
- Financial literacy (budgeting, reporting, compliance).
- Integrity and accountability.
- Ability to communicate financial information in simple, clear language.
- Strategic thinking (how financial decisions align with the mission).
- Collaboration with staff, auditors, and fellow board members.
Time commitment depends on the size of the organization:
- Small nonprofits: 4–6 hours per month (handling bookkeeping, reconciling accounts, preparing reports).
- Medium to large nonprofits: 6–10 hours per month, often focused on oversight and strategy rather than hands-on bookkeeping.
Most treasurers attend quarterly board meetings plus finance committee check-ins in between.
Not necessarily. While CPA or accounting experience is a huge advantage, it isn’t required. Many nonprofits value strong financial literacy, organizational skills, and a commitment to the mission over formal credentials. For smaller organizations, the treasurer might work with an outside bookkeeper or CPA for technical accounting tasks while focusing on oversight.
No. To maintain accountability and independence, auditors must be external to the organization. Combining these roles creates a conflict of interest and undermines transparency.
