Career opportunities

Lumina Alliance is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization established in 1979. Our mission is to empower those impacted by sexual and intimate partner violence through innovative advocacy, healing, and prevention programs.

Services include 24/7 crisis and information line, case management, accompaniment and advocacy, emergency shelters, transitional housing, individual and group therapy, and robust prevention education.

Our team is made up of individuals full of passion, integrity, and empathy, all of whom bring their unique strengths and insights with them as we all work together to create a safe, thriving, and equitable community. We post all job openings on this page, so check back regularly for any new openings. Learn more about us.

The hiring process

  • To apply for an open position, submit your resume and a cover letter or personal statement explaining why you are interested in working at Lumina Alliance.

    Email both documents to Careers@LuminaAlliance.org. Be sure to include the job title, followed by your name in the subject line.

  • Not sure you meet all qualifications? Let us decide!

    Research shows that women and members of other under-represented groups tend to not apply for jobs when they think they may not meet every qualification, when, in fact, they often do! We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and strongly encourage you to apply.

  • Job Duties: These are the core responsibilities specific to the role, above and beyond general expectations like adhering to our core values, or professionalism and teamwork. These duties help define how your work directly contributes to Lumina’s mission of supporting survivors and creating a safer, more equitable community.

    Qualifications: These are the skills, experiences, and attributes that our ideal candidate would bring. Think of these as a wish list, not a checklist. If you don’t meet every qualification, that’s okay—we recognize that experience and growth happen on the job!

    Key Characteristics: These are qualities we believe help people thrive at Lumina Alliance—things like empathy, adaptability, and a passion for social justice. They’re not always easy to capture on a resume, but they play a big role in success.

    Requirements: These are non-negotiables—things you absolutely must have in place before you can be hired. They may include specific licenses, certifications, or language proficiency. While we review every complete application (resume and cover letter) we receive, if you do not meet all of the listed requirements, it is unlikely that the hiring team will move forward with an interview.

    Understanding Lumina’s Salary Schedule: Lumina Alliance utilizes a salary schedule to set wages. This promotes transparency and fairness by tying compensation to clearly defined milestones. Most positions are hired at Step 1 of the applicable range unless the candidate brings directly comparable experience or credentials that meet criteria for advanced placement. We strongly recommend reviewing the “Hiring Wage” listed on each posting as the likely starting point. While ranges are listed for transparency, the top step is not the hiring wage—and applicants should not expect to be placed there initially.

  • A team member from People & Culture or the Hiring Manager for the position will contact you if they would like to move forward with your application.

Job opportunities

  • Read Full Job Description Here

    Position Title: Therapist (Associate or Licensed)

    Reports to: Clinical Co-Director

    Hours: 20-40 hours per week

    Location: San Luis Obispo County

    Salary Range: $28.00 - $33.00 (Bilingual differential of $1/hr if applicable)

    Job Description


    Purpose and Responsibilities

    Under the supervision of the Therapy Department Clinical Co-Director, Therapists are responsible for providing therapy services for clients of the agency – adult survivors of sexual abuse (SA) and/or intimate partner violence (IPV) and children/teens who are survivors of sexual abuse (SA) and/or intimate partner violence (IPV). This employee may see clients at any or all of our locations in the San Luis Obispo County area.


    • Intake/Assessment/Referral: Conduct initial clinical assessment sessions with potential clients; make internal and external referrals as needed for advocacy, legal, shelter, or transitional housing, and other services.

    • Crisis Intervention: Provide crisis intervention, conflict resolution, safety planning, and exit sessions, as needed, at any of the therapy sites. On occasion, assist "walk in" survivors at the Lumina Alliance offices in the San Luis Obispo County. 

    • Therapy: Provide individual therapy to assigned clients (adult IPV/SA survivors and child abuse survivors 5 years or older); lead groups dealing with IPV/SA and related issues for survivors. Ensure that child and teen groups are age- and issue-appropriate. Provide limited conjoint therapy for child clients and the non-offending primary caregiver as requested in order to further the child's treatment.

    • Reporting: As a mandated reporter, report child abuse, elder abuse, and dependent adult abuse, as per state law.

    • Paperwork: As assigned by the Clinical Co-Director and/or Clinical Supervisor, be responsible for all paperwork for grant compliance and treatment planning. Paperwork includes, but is not limited to, clinical notes, treatment plans, client intakes, data gathering forms, schedules, client satisfaction surveys, etc.

    • Testing: Perform all testing required by grants or requested by the Clinical Co-Director and/or Clinical Supervisor.

    • Case Reviews: On a quarterly basis (at minimum), review with the Clinical Co-Director and/or Clinical Supervisor each client's case, update the treatment plan, and determine projected length of treatment and/or termination date.

    • Supervision: Attend the number of hours of supervision (group and/or individual) required for the number of client hours as per Board of Behavioral Sciences guidelines.

    • Meetings: Attend weekly supervisions for all programs in which therapy services were rendered, departmental, all-staff, and other meetings as required by the Clinical Co-Director, Clinical Supervisor, COO, and CEO.

    • Trainings: Participate in training/conferences as needed and approved to ensure best practices and fulfill grant requirements.

    • Other Duties: As assigned by the Clinical Co-Director, Clinical Supervisor, Chief Operating Officer, and CEO.


    Qualifications

    • Marriage and Family Therapist, Social Work or Professional Clinical Counselor License, or Associate.

    • BA or BS in sociology, psychology or related field.

    • Masters degree MA, MS, MSW, completed or in progress in Clinical Psychology or other related program.

    • Minimum two years’ experience working as a therapist in a similar setting with similar population.

    • Strong understanding of trauma-informed practices.

    • Demonstrate cultural competency and awareness in dealing with diverse populations

    • Written and verbal fluency in English required; additional written and verbal fluency in Spanish strongly preferred.


    Key Characteristics

    • Ability to prioritize tasks and manage competing deadlines. 

    • Compassionate, empathetic, non-judgmental.

    • Excellent oral and written communication skills.

    • Ability to frequently and clearly communicate with staff and supervisors.

    • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

    • Ability to handle sensitive issues with discretion and confidentiality.

    • Experience with MS Office and GSuite.

    • Ability to learn new technologies and software.

    • Works closely, cooperatively, and collaboratively with others.


    Requirements

    • Must satisfactorily pass a Live Scan background check, paid for by Employer.

    • Completion of Lumina Alliance’s 65-hr California State Certified Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Crisis Counselor Training (provided as on-the-job training).

    • Must retain professional liability insurance, at employee’s expense.

    • Must have reliable transportation and current Driver’s License, personal and current automobile registration and vehicle insurance required.

    WHY THERAPISTS WANT TO WORK AT LUMINA ALLIANCE:

    • Focus on Therapy, Not Admin: Our therapists are able to focus on what they do best—providing care. With administrative tasks like scheduling and billing handled by our team, you can dedicate your energy to supporting survivors without the added stress of managing logistics.

    • Balanced, Managed Caseloads: We believe in taking care of those who care for others. That’s why we ensure our therapists have manageable, consistent caseloads that are aligned with best practices, helping you maintain balance and avoid burnout, unlike private practice where you may need to manage client acquisition and workload yourself.

    • Supervision and Peer Support: At Lumina Alliance, you won’t be working in isolation. We provide regular clinical supervision and foster a collaborative environment where you can learn and grow alongside a supportive team of professionals committed to the same mission.

    • Trauma-Informed, Justice-Driven Care: Our work is grounded in trauma-informed practices and a deep commitment to social justice. As a therapist here, you’ll have the opportunity to make a real difference, working with an organization dedicated to ending violence and fostering equity for all.

    • Income Stability and Support: Lumina Alliance provides a stable and predictable income, along with comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, and retirement plans. You’ll also enjoy generous paid time off, ensuring you have the space to rest and recharge.

    • Ethical, Impactful Work: At Lumina Alliance, your work has purpose. You’ll be part of a compassionate team that empowers survivors and advocates for justice, making a lasting impact on individuals and the community.



    Benefits

    • Generous health insurance benefits; silver tier plan premium for employee provided by employer 

    • Premium paid for dental and vision insurance by employer for employee coverage, life insurance plan

    • IRA Retirement plan with employer matching contributions

    • Paid Time Off including 16 paid holidays 

    • Opportunities to accrue additional PTO

    • Various engaging internal committees on paid time, such as the Fun Committee, DEI Committee, and many others

    • Family friendly workplace and generous pet accommodations 

    • Opportunities for growth within Organization

    ABOUT LUMINA ALLIANCE

    Lumina Alliance is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization created by the merging of RISE and Stand Strong in July 2021. Their mission is to empower those impacted by sexual and intimate partner violence through innovative advocacy, healing, prevention programs. Services include 24/7 crisis and information line, case management, restraining order assistance, legal assistance, accompaniment and advocacy, emergency shelters, transitional housing, individual and group therapy, and robust prevention education. For more information, please visit www.LuminaAlliance.org 

    Lumina Alliance is an at-will and an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants due to race, ethnicity, gender, religion, national origin, veteran status, or on the basis of disability.

    Lumina Alliance is a Drug Free Workplace.

    To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume, position is open until filled. 

  • Read Full Job Description Here

    Position Title: People & Culture Coordinator

    Reports to: People & Culture Director

    Hours: 30-40 hours per week/ Full-Time, nonexempt

    Location: San Luis Obispo County

    Salary Range: $23.00 - $25.89 (Bilingual differential of $1/hr if applicable)

    Job Description

    Purpose and Responsibilities

    Under the direction of the People & Culture Director (P&CD), the People & Culture Coordinator supports and manages the daily functions of the People & Culture Department for Lumina Alliance.



    To apply, submit your resume and a cover letter or personal statement about why you are interested in working at Lumina Alliance.



    Job Duties

    • Administer and execute People & Culture programs including, but not limited to, compensation, benefits, and leave; employee relations; performance and talent management; engagement and morale; occupational health and safety; and training and development.

    • Provide administrative support for benefits management and workers’ compensation.

    • Coordinate annual insurance renewals and maintain documentation.

    • Manage confidential employee data within the HRIS system (Paycom).

    • Maintain accurate and compliant employee files, including processing and verifying all personnel documents.

    • Support recruitment efforts by posting positions, screening applicants, coordinating interviews, tracking applicant progress, and assisting with hiring processes.

    • Facilitate new hire onboarding and assist with exit processes.

    • Respond to employment-related inquiries from applicants, employees, supervisors, and the general public, escalating complex or sensitive matters as needed.

    • Provide administrative support at Lumina’s San Luis Obispo office, including phone, email, and walk-in inquiries.

    • Perform other duties as assigned.




    Key Characteristics

    • Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience.

    • Knowledge of California employment laws and HR best practices; SHRM-CP preferred.

    • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills with a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset.

    • Detail-oriented and able to manage multiple priorities under time constraints.

    • Compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach to staff and clients.

    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including active listening.

    • Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive issues with discretion.

    • Proficient with Google Workspace and HRIS systems (Paycom preferred).

    • Adaptable and comfortable working both independently and collaboratively.


    Preferred Qualifications

    • Experience in HR, nonprofit administration, and/or people operations.

    • Demonstrated ability to improve internal processes and systems.

    • Fluency in Spanish is preferred.


    Requirements

    • Must satisfactorily pass a Live Scan background check, paid for by the employer.

    • Completion of Lumina Alliance’s 65-hr California State Certified Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Crisis Counselor Training (provided as on-the-job training).
      Benefits

    • Generous health insurance benefits; silver tier plan premium for employee provided by employer 

    • Premium paid for dental and vision insurance by employer for employee coverage, life insurance plan

    • IRA Retirement plan with employer matching contributions

    • Paid Time Off including 16 paid holidays 

    • Opportunities to accrue additional PTO

    • Various engaging internal committees on paid time, such as the Fun Committee, DEI Committee, and many others

    • Family friendly workplace and generous pet accommodations 

    • Opportunities for growth within Organization

    ABOUT LUMINA ALLIANCE

    Lumina Alliance is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization created by the merging of RISE and Stand Strong in July 2021. Their mission is to empower those impacted by sexual and intimate partner violence through innovative advocacy, healing, prevention programs. Services include 24/7 crisis and information line, case management, restraining order assistance, legal assistance, accompaniment and advocacy, emergency shelters, transitional housing, individual and group therapy, and robust prevention education. For more information, please visit www.LuminaAlliance.org

    Lumina Alliance is an at-will and an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants due to race, ethnicity, gender, religion, national origin, veteran status, or on the basis of disability.

    Lumina Alliance is a Drug Free Workplace.

    To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume, position is open until filled. 

  • Read Full Job Description Here

    Position Title: Development Administrative Manager

    Reports to: Development Director

    Hours: 40 hours per week/ Full-Time, nonexempt

    Location: San Luis Obispo County

    Salary Range: $27.00 - $30.39 (Bilingual differential of $1/hr if applicable)

    Job Description

    Purpose and Responsibilities

    Under the direction of the Development Director, The Development Administrative Manager's primary responsibility is to support the fundraising efforts and activities at Lumina Alliance.  This position will also support the Communications & Outreach Director with occasional marketing and communication activities.



    To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter or personal statement about why you are interested in working at Lumina Alliance to Careers@LuminaAlliance.org



    Job Duties

    Development & Donor Relations

    • Manage and maintain the donor database, ensuring accurate gift entry, donor records, interaction tracking, reporting, and ongoing data integrity. 

    • Process and acknowledge donations in a timely manner, collaborating with the Finance Department on reconciliation, reporting, and gift tracking. 

    • Develop and improve internal systems and workflows; provide training and support to staff on donor databases and fundraising tools. 

    • Maintain physical and electronic mailing lists and oversee donor segmentation for fundraising and communication efforts.

    • Manage in-kind gift processing and collaborate with other departments to update agency needs and maintain an accurate list on the website

    • Support donor prospect research, stewardship activities, donor tours, and cultivation meetings.

    • Prepare materials, reports, and presentations for donor meetings, campaign initiatives, and fundraising activities. 

    Events

    • Manage all aspects of third-party fundraising events with outside organizations

    • Oversee event logistics, sponsorship fulfillment, auctions, registrations, vendor relationships, permits, and guest communications.

    • Manage event budgets, timelines, contracts, and financial reporting to ensure successful outcomes. 

    • Assist in planning and implementation of donor recognition and cultivation events

    • Assist with the proofing and content of communication materials related to fundraising


    Communications 

    • Organize and inventory promotional items and materials

    • Provide data and reports on social media and newsletter metrics

    • Manage Intranet site 

    • Assist with the proofing and content of communication materials related to fundraising


    Administrative & Department Support

    • Manage departmental operations, project management systems, workflows, and administrative processes. 

    • Oversee the Development & Communications calendar, including donor meetings, speaking engagements, outreach opportunities, and campaign activities. 

    • Administer and maintain department technology platforms, including fundraising systems. 

    • Manage reporting for campaign committees, donor engagement activities, and fundraising initiatives. 

    • Develop agendas, prepare reports, document meeting outcomes, and track action items for board and committee meetings. 

    • Prepare monthly development, campaign, and financial reports for executive leadership and the Board of Directors. 

    • Manage office functions, i.e. phone calls, routine inquiries, mail, and walk-ins as needed.

    • Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.



    Preferred Qualifications

    • Fluency in English is required; additional fluency in Spanish is preferred

    • An Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject area or equivalent work experience in a similar position is preferred

    • Experience with donor databases and event software such as Little Green Light and Auctria is preferred


    Key Characteristics

    • Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously while maintaining exceptional attention to detail and meeting deadlines

    • Demonstrates initiative and sound judgment in managing projects and organizational priorities

    • Ability to use and learn new technologies and software, including graphic design (i.e. Canva), donor database software (i.e. Little Green Light), event software (Auctria) and other media platforms (SquareSpace, Meta Business Suite, Google Workspace)

    • Strong relationship-building skills with donors, volunteers, sponsors, vendors, and community partners

    • Excellent oral and written communication skills; Ability to frequently and clearly communicate with supervisor, staff, donors, volunteers, and community

    • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

    • Works closely, cooperatively, and collaboratively with others


    Requirements

    • Must satisfactorily pass a Live Scan background check, paid for by the employer upon hire.

    • Completion of Lumina Alliance’s 65-hr California State Certified Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Crisis Counselor Training (on-the-job training)

    ABOUT LUMINA ALLIANCE

    Lumina Alliance is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization created by the merging of RISE and Stand Strong in July 2021. Their mission is to empower those impacted by sexual and intimate partner violence through innovative advocacy, healing, prevention programs. Services include 24/7 crisis and information line, case management, restraining order assistance, legal assistance, accompaniment and advocacy, emergency shelters, transitional housing, individual and group therapy, and robust prevention education. For more information, please visit www.LuminaAlliance.org

    Lumina Alliance is an at-will and an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants due to race, ethnicity, gender, religion, national origin, veteran status, or on the basis of disability.

    Lumina Alliance is a Drug Free Workplace.

    To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume, position is open until filled. 

The interview process

  • Most positions typically have a two-step panel interview process:

    • Initial interview, typically virtual via Zoom or Google Meets

    • Second Round Interview, usually in person at our San Luis Obispo Office

    • Some departments and positions have brief skills demonstration presentations or related portions, skills tests

    Note:  Panel interviews consist of 2-4 current staff members and the applicant.

  • We recommend the following steps to prepare for your interview:

    • Carefully review the Job Description. Consider how your experiences align with the job, and be prepared to discuss your experience.

    • Review our website to get a basic understanding of the work we do and who we are.

    • Consider what is your “Why”? Why do you want to work at Lumina Alliance? Why are you interested in this particular position?

    • Write down any questions that come up for you as you have gone through this process. You will have an opportunity to ask our team questions throughout the interview process.

  • If you are a finalist for a position you can expect the following steps before an offer is made.

    • Reference Checks 

    • Live Scan Fingerprinting and DOJ and FBI background checks

    • Applications are reviewed by each department’s hiring team and response times may vary depending on scheduling availability, the number of applicants, and other departmental needs. We appreciate your patience during this process and encourage applicants to reach out with any questions.

    Once an offer is made: 

    • Requesting I-9 Documents be completed

    • Scheduling for the 65-hour training to become a state-certified crisis counselor (required of all staff)

Our core values

At Lumina Alliance our core values are more than a list on our website; we integrate them into all aspects of our work, agency meetings, policies, and documents. These values guide how we operate and interact.

  • Put People First — We recognize and value the whole person and their unique experiences. We treat every individual with respect, dignity, and kindness.

  • Honor Self-Care — We honor the needs of each individual. We respect healthy boundaries, encourage laughter and play, and foster growth and development in order to thrive.

  • Act with Integrity — We act with honesty, transparency, courtesy, and fairness in all that we do in order to foster collaboration, trust, and sustainability.

  • Seek Understanding — We approach people, ideas, and situations with an open heart and an open mind. We pursue growth and connection while acknowledging our impact.

  • Communicate with Courage — We speak intentionally and with authenticity. We establish shared expectations and deliver on our word. We hold one another accountable.

  • Foster Learning Culture — We learn from and share our mistakes. We create space for learning, evolving, and challenging the status quo through open communication and collaborative decision-making.

  • Empower One Another — We empower the people we serve, our community partners, each other, and ourselves to reach our fullest potential.

Employee benefits

Lumina Alliance does everything it can to support and empower our team, including offering the following benefits:

  • Generous health insurance benefits paid for by Lumina Alliance

  • Premium dental and vision insurance paid for by Lumina Alliance

  • Life insurance paid for by Lumina Alliance

  • IRA Retirement plan with matching employer contributions

  • At least 16 paid holidays throughout the year

  • Generous paid-time-off accruals with opportunities for more

  • Various engaging internal committees you can attend with paid time

  • Opportunities for professional growth and promotion within the agency

  • Generous pet accommodations

  • Hybrid work opportunities (varies based on position)

  • Family-friendly workplace and culture

Lumina Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants due to race, ethnicity, gender, religion, national origin, veteran status, or disability.

We strive to offer inclusive, accessible, and accommodating services to everyone in our community by centering & amplifying marginalized voices & experiences within the movement.