Special Projects Coordinator, Institute

The Opportunity

The Social Finance Institute is a growing platform within Social Finance, designed to bridge theory and practice for market leaders, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to implement and scale outcomes-based solutions. Drawing from Social Finance’s several years of on-the-ground experience and broader field expertise, the Institute produces actionable research, convenes thought-leaders, and supports the development of tools and strategies that advance social impact.

We are seeking a Special Projects Coordinator to support a dynamic and evolving portfolio of initiatives. This entry-level role is ideal for a highly motivated individual who is eager to learn, contribute, and grow in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. The Coordinator will work report to the Director, Policy & Communications and work closely with Institute leadership & cross-functional teams to support research, writing, communications, event coordination, and internal operations. This is a generalist role, perfect for someone who is highly motivated, thrives on variety, is detail-oriented, and enjoys being a collaborative team player.

Writing, Communications & Research 

• Support the development of Institute materials including white papers, case studies, toolkits, and website content through writing, editing, and logistics coordination.
• Assist with transcribing interviews, note-taking, copyediting, and summarizing key learnings from convenings and communities of practice.
• Prepare PowerPoint and other presentations and talking points for Institute leadership for a range of audiences.
• Conduct light research, including landscape reviews and literature scans. 

Event Support 

• Coordinate logistics for Institute events, including scheduling, speaker preparation, and materials organization.
• Support on-site event execution (e.g., space setup, guest check-in, transportation).
• Assist with post-event activities such as wrap-ups, surveys, and budget reconciliation. 

Firm Building  

• Over time, contribute to internal initiatives such as recruiting, professional development, fundraising, and knowledge management.
• Support senior management and cross-functional teams (e.g., Communications, Partnerships & Philanthropy) as needed.
• Help identify and implement tools and systems to improve event planning and outreach efficiency. 

Qualifications

This role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in an entry-level role across a variety of functions, contribute to meaningful work, and build a strong foundation for future career paths in policy, communications, and/or social impact. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and value diverse experiences—including those outside traditional office settings. 

• Bachelor’s degree required; internship and/or office experience preferred.
• Strong attention to detail, especially in written deliverables.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proactive mindset with sound judgment and instincts.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to interface with stakeholders at all levels.
• Flexible and willing to take on a wide range of tasks—from research and writing to logistics and list-building.
• Team-oriented with a collaborative spirit and willingness to ask questions and learn.
• Interest in the policy, social impact, or thought leadership landscape.  
• Commitment to enhancing a team culture of inclusion, belonging, and equity.
• The following are not required, but would be considered as a plus for your candidacy: 
  • Advanced PowerPoint experience
  • Public policy experience (e.g.: internship in think tank or federal, state, or local government, etc.)
  • Previous exposure to event planning or advance work

Benefits

At Social Finance, we strive to deliver a benefits program that will enhance our overall value proposition to employees. Our current benefit offerings include: 

• Comprehensive health care coverage: medical, dental and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; Employee Healthy Actions programs and more
• Retirement savings plan with employer contribution
• Short-term, long-term and life insurance policies
• Commuter benefits and cell phone reimbursements
• Hybrid work model (in-office a minimum of two days per week and on an ad hoc basis as needed)
• Dedicated budgets for team building and employee recognition
• Annual budget for external professional development opportunities
• Mentorship and onboarding programs
• Collaborative and energizing workspace in downtown Washington, D.C.
• Paid vacation and paid holidays (with 12/24-1/1 off every year)
• Paid parental leave
• A truly stellar team of high performing, values-driven and fun (!) professionals 

Salary

Social Finance uses a lockstep compensation model for purposes of equity and transparency - we strive for everyone coming in at a given level to be paid equitably. For this position, at the Coordinator level, the starting base salary is $60,000. At this level, employees typically receive a $2,500 salary increase annually and are eligible to participate in our firmwide annual bonus program. Bonuses are typically between 5-10%, though bonuses are not guaranteed and are dependent on both organizational and individual performance.