Application Guide
How to Apply for Special Projects Director
at Rethink Priorities
🏢 About Rethink Priorities
Rethink Priorities is a nonprofit research organization dedicated to identifying the most effective ways to do good, with a focus on evidence-based solutions that inform policymakers and philanthropists. Unlike traditional think tanks, they prioritize cost-effectiveness and rigorous analysis, often tackling neglected cause areas like global health, animal welfare, and longtermism. Working here means joining a remote-first team of researchers and operators who are passionate about making a measurable difference in the world.
About This Role
As Special Projects Director, you'll be the driving force behind high-impact initiatives that bridge Rethink Priorities' research and real-world policy change. You'll take projects from initial concept to completion, managing cross-functional teams and ensuring alignment with organizational strategy. This role is critical for translating research insights into actionable recommendations that can influence decision-makers and maximize social impact.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve meeting with project teams to review progress, analyzing data or research findings to inform next steps, and coordinating with leadership to ensure alignment with organizational priorities. You could also spend time drafting project plans, communicating with external partners or policymakers, and troubleshooting issues that arise. Expect a mix of strategic planning, hands-on management, and collaborative problem-solving in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Rethink Priorities Is Looking For
- Proven experience leading complex, cross-functional projects from conception to completion, ideally in a research, policy, or nonprofit setting.
- Strong strategic thinking and ability to align project goals with organizational priorities, working closely with senior leadership.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with a track record of coordinating diverse teams and stakeholders to achieve shared objectives.
- Passion for evidence-based solutions and a commitment to Rethink Priorities' mission of doing the most good per dollar spent.
📝 Tips for Applying to Rethink Priorities
Highlight specific examples of projects you've managed that had a policy or research impact, emphasizing your role in driving them to completion.
Demonstrate familiarity with Rethink Priorities' research areas (e.g., global health, animal welfare, AI safety) and how your project management skills can advance their mission.
Show your ability to work remotely and asynchronously, as Rethink Priorities is a remote-first organization with a distributed team.
In your application, explicitly connect your experience to the job's core responsibilities: leading special projects, overseeing cross-functional teams, and coordinating with leadership.
Use the cover letter to explain why you're drawn to Rethink Priorities' unique approach to philanthropy and research, and how you can contribute to their special projects.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your track record of managing complex projects from start to finish, with concrete outcomes that demonstrate impact.', 'Your ability to lead cross-functional teams and collaborate effectively with researchers, policymakers, and leadership.', "Your alignment with Rethink Priorities' mission and values, including a commitment to evidence-based solutions and cost-effectiveness.", 'Your strategic mindset and experience aligning project goals with broader organizational strategy.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Explore Rethink Priorities' website, especially their research reports and blog posts, to understand their key cause areas and methodological approach.
- → Read about their team and organizational structure to understand how special projects fit into their overall strategy.
- → Look into recent projects or initiatives they've undertaken, and consider how you might build on or expand that work.
- → Familiarize yourself with the effective altruism community and the principles of evidence-based philanthropy, as these underpin Rethink Priorities' work.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing only on generic project management skills without connecting them to Rethink Priorities' mission or research areas.
- Neglecting to demonstrate experience working with policymakers or translating research into policy impact, which is central to this role.
- Underestimating the importance of cross-functional collaboration and failing to provide examples of leading diverse teams.
- Applying with a generic cover letter that doesn't show a deep understanding of Rethink Priorities' unique approach and values.
📅 Application Timeline
⏰ Deadline: October 12, 2026
We recommend applying at least a few days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Rethink Priorities!