Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Manager of Human Resources & People Operations

at Economic Security Project

🏢 About Economic Security Project

The Economic Security Project (ESP) is a unique network of advocates, academics, and technologists dedicated to reshaping the economy through cash payments and economic justice. Working here means contributing to groundbreaking policy and research that directly impacts economic security for all, in a collaborative and mission-driven environment.

About This Role

As the Senior Manager of HR & People Operations, you will be the backbone of ESP's internal culture and operations, ensuring that the team is supported, compliant, and thriving. Your work will directly enable the organization's mission by building a strong, inclusive, and efficient workplace that attracts and retains top talent.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with checking in with remote team members and reviewing HR inboxes, then moving on to a recruitment call or coordinating benefits enrollment. You might spend time analyzing staff survey results, meeting with the DEI committee, or implementing a new performance management process, all while ensuring compliance and supporting team well-being.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Economic Security Project Is Looking For

  • Experienced in HR operations with a proven track record in recruitment, benefits administration, and compliance, ideally in a nonprofit or mission-driven setting.
  • A project management pro who can juggle multiple initiatives (surveys, process improvements) with keen attention to detail and organization.
  • An excellent communicator and relationship-builder who can foster a positive, inclusive culture and effectively interact with staff at all levels.
  • Deeply committed to DEI, with experience facilitating initiatives or committees, and a passion for economic justice aligns with ESP's values.

📝 Tips for Applying to Economic Security Project

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific HR operations accomplishments, such as implementing a new benefits system or leading a successful recruitment campaign, with metrics where possible.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your DEI experience to ESP's mission of economic justice, showing how you can further their commitment to equity internally.

3

Research ESP's current campaigns and publications (e.g., on cash transfers) and mention them in your application to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment.

4

Since the role is remote, emphasize your experience managing remote teams and using remote-first HR tools and practices.

5

Be prepared to discuss a specific example of a people operations project you led from start to finish, including challenges and outcomes.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for economic justice and how it aligns with ESP's mission.", 'Your experience in HR operations, especially in a nonprofit or advocacy setting, and how it prepares you for this role.', "Specific examples of how you've advanced DEI in previous roles, and how you'd bring that to ESP.", 'Your ability to thrive in a remote work environment and manage projects independently.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Explore ESP's website to understand their key initiatives, such as their advocacy for guaranteed income and their research on economic security.
  • → Read recent news articles or blog posts about ESP's campaigns and any public statements from leadership to grasp their current priorities.
  • → Look at ESP's team page on LinkedIn to see the current team composition and understand the company culture.
  • → Check if ESP has been mentioned in any HR or nonprofit industry publications for their people practices.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach developing and implementing a DEI strategy in a small, remote nonprofit?
2 Describe a time you managed a difficult employee relations issue. How did you handle it?
3 How do you stay updated on employment laws and regulations, and how would you ensure ESP remains compliant?
4 Can you walk us through your process for designing an effective onboarding experience for new hires?
5 How would you use staff survey data to drive improvements in people operations?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not showing genuine interest in the mission – this is a mission-driven org, so generic interest won't cut it.
  • Focusing too much on corporate HR experience without tying it back to nonprofit or advocacy contexts.
  • Underestimating the importance of DEI – be ready to discuss concrete actions, not just platitudes.
  • Neglecting to mention remote work experience – since the role is remote, they'll want to know you can thrive in that setup.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Economic Security Project!

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