Understood.org has partnered with Aspen Leadership Group in the search for a Vice President of Advancement. You may view the position prospectus or submit an application via this link: https://opportunities.aspenleadershipgroup.com/opportunities/7220. Applications submitted through other channels will not be reviewed.

Reporting to the Co-President & Chief Marketing Officer, the Vice President of Advancement will drive the overall long-term advancement vision and strategies to elevate awareness of Understood, cultivate significant relationships, and yield material progress that enables the sustainable delivery of their mission. This individual will continue building and leading a team that includes Individual, Institutional, and Corporate Giving, as well as Partnerships. This leader must be fluent in the fundamentals of each area, and be excited to craft their own vision, strategy, and roadmap for the function and to align resources to deliver the plan. With a multitude of funding pathways, this role is about growing and scaling the organization, not a singular focus on covering operating costs.

Understood is seeking a believer in the power of technology and its ability to change lives; someone eager to leverage their skills to advance important efforts that shape the world for difference so every individual can thrive. You should be excited by challenges that have yet to be solved, enjoy the discomfort of the unknown, and appreciate the opportunity to partner with like-minded people to address critical problems that impact nearly everyone. If you have a desire to join a social impact nonprofit that operates as a business, is agnostic to how the impact is delivered, and is innately creative in how they work with, through, and alongside others to deliver its mission, then you are encouraged to apply.

Understood.org (Understood) is the leading nonprofit empowering the 70 million people with learning and thinking differences in the United States. Its mission is to shape the world for difference so every individual can thrive. Understood focuses on providing expert-vetted tools, resources (digital products) and information, driving behavior change at scale. Its audiences discover community and practical, research-backed tools that improve their everyday lives and empower them to navigate their lifelong journey with confidence.

More than 30 years ago, co-founders Fred and Nancy Poses began their own journey to understand their son’s learning and thinking differences. They quickly saw what millions of families experience every day: that the world isn’t built for difference, stigma runs deep, and it is incredibly hard to find reliable information and a supportive community. Understood was created 15 years ago to address these urgent needs. Come be part of an organization with an entrepreneurial spirit that’s helping to shape the world for difference. Build a world where everyone can reach their full potential.

A bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least ten years of fundraising experience is required for this position. Experience in both nonprofit and for-profit companies is preferred. Understood will consider candidates with a broad range of backgrounds. If you are excited about this role and feel that you can contribute to Understood, but your experience does not exactly align with every qualification listed above, we encourage you to apply. All applications must be accompanied by a cover letter and résumé. Cover letters should be responsive to the mission of Understood and the responsibilities and qualifications specified in the position prospectus.

The salary range for this position is $250,000 to $300,000. Understood offers a comprehensive health, dental, and insurance plan options as well as a monthly $1,200 defined benefit allowance, 12 weeks of 100% paid parental leave, family planning support, 401(K) matching with immediate vesting, a quarterly wellness stipend, and flexible, unlimited paid time off. The organization has a standard holiday calendar and offers summer Fridays. Understood is also a dog-friendly office. 

This is a hybrid role that requires a minimum of three (3) days a week in Understood’s NYC office, with a focus on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Understood operates under a “Rhythm of Work” with workflows and meetings designed to create a balance of individual work, group and team work, and meetings. We are a Mac-based environment, and team members are provided a Mac laptop for their work.

If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or participating in the selection process, please contact Millie Taylor at millietaylor@aspenleadershipgroup.com.

Understood.org does not sponsor applicants for work visas or legal permanent residence, including providing assistance with OPT extensions.

Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Understood encourages individuals of all learning styles and ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including those whose life experiences may include the challenge of access due to a disability, to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization, as we want to engage all those who can contribute to supporting this work.

Understood is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applications without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, physical or mental disability (where the applicant or employee is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation), any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, stalking, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law or that of persons with whom that individual associates, or any other legally protected characteristics.

For additional information on learning and thinking differences, including ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, executive function challenges, nonverbal learning disabilities, processing issues, and more, please visit www.understood.org.

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About Understood

Understood is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference. We raise awareness of the challenges and strengths of people who learn and think differently. Our resources help people navigate challenges, gain confidence, and find support and community so they can thrive. 

Having a shared commitment to our values is a key factor in any hire we make. We have five core values: 

1. Continuously learn.
2. Act with intention.
3. Champion difference.
4. Inspire change.
5. Grow together. 

Come be part of an organization with an entrepreneurial spirit that’s helping to shape the world for difference. Together, we can build a world where everyone can reach their full potential. 

To learn more about Understood, please visit: www.understood.org.

Who you are 

This internship is open to undergraduate students seeking experience in Research Operations. Reporting into our Associate Director of User Research, you will contribute to meaningful projects and gain hands-on experience in your field.

This internship will be based out of our NYC office in the West Village. Interns work up to 25 hours per week: three full days in-office (Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday) and one half-day remote. Pay rate: $25/hour. We are a Mac-based environment, and team members are provided a Mac laptop for their work.

Responsibilities

• Support the Research Operations Manager in increasing operational efficiency and maintaining infrastructure that enables research across Product and Market Research & Insights.
• Support cross-functional projects and contribute to team goals throughout the summer.
• Assist with participant coordination, panel engagement, data management, documentation of SOPs, and AI workflow exploration.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to share learnings and insights.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to brainstorming/problem-solving discussions.

Ideal candidates will possess the following:

• Genuine interest in Research Operations and building systems to manage complex, cross-functional demands.
• Strong skills in organization, process documentation, and professional communication.
• Familiarity with navigating Google Workspace and AI tools.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities. 
• Previous experience in a professional office environment or an internship is preferred.

Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Understood encourages individuals of all learning styles and ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including those whose life experiences may include the challenge of access due to a disability, to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization, as we want to engage all those who can contribute to supporting this work.

Understood is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applications without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, physical or mental disability (where the applicant or employee is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation), any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, stalking, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law or that of persons with whom that individual associates, or any other legally protected characteristics.

For additional information on learning and thinking differences, including ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, executive function challenges, nonverbal learning disabilities, processing issues, and more, please visit www.understood.org.

#LI-BL1

About Understood

Understood is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference. We raise awareness of the challenges and strengths of people who learn and think differently. Our resources help people navigate challenges, gain confidence, and find support and community so they can thrive. 

Having a shared commitment to our values is a key factor in any hire we make. We have five core values: 

1. Continuously learn.
2. Act with intention.
3. Champion difference.
4. Inspire change.
5. Grow together. 

Come be part of an organization with an entrepreneurial spirit that’s helping to shape the world for difference. Together, we can build a world where everyone can reach their full potential. 

To learn more about Understood, please visit: www.understood.org.

Who you are 

This internship is open to undergraduate or graduate students seeking hands-on experience in Product Design. Reporting to the Director of Product Design, you’ll work alongside product designers, product managers, engineers, and UX researchers to help create digital experiences that support people who learn and think differently.

You’re right for the role if you’re curious, thoughtful, and excited to learn how real products are built. You care about users, enjoy solving problems, and want experience contributing to meaningful work that has real-world impact.

This internship will be based out of our NYC office in the West Village. Interns work up to 25 hours per week: three full days in-office (Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday) and one half-day remote. Pay rate: $25/hour. We are a Mac-based environment, and team members are provided a Mac laptop for their work.

Responsibilities

• Support the Product Design team on active product initiatives
• Create wireframes, mockups, prototypes, and visual explorations using Figma
• Assist with user research, synthesis, and translating insights into design ideas
• Participate in design critiques, brainstorms, and cross-functional working sessions
• Collaborate with Product, Engineering, Content, and Research partners throughout the summer
• Contribute to team improvement goals, especially by experimenting with AI to improve the product design workflow

Ideal candidates will possess the following:

• Current undergraduate or graduate student in Design, HCI or related field
• Strong interest in product design, UX/UI, or human-centered design
• Familiarity with Figma 
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to manage time, stay organized, and balance multiple priorities
• Openness to feedback and eagerness to learn through iteration
• Genuine interest in Understood’s mission and inclusive design
• Committed to embodying and being a steward of our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging

Bonus:

• Portfolio of school, freelance, or personal design projects
• Experience with prototyping tools
• Knowledge of accessibility best practices
• Interest in education, behavioral science, or mission-driven products

Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Understood encourages individuals of all learning styles and ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including those whose life experiences may include the challenge of access due to a disability, to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization, as we want to engage all those who can contribute to supporting this work.

Understood is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applications without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, physical or mental disability (where the applicant or employee is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation), any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, stalking, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law or that of persons with whom that individual associates, or any other legally protected characteristics.

For additional information on learning and thinking differences, including ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, executive function challenges, nonverbal learning disabilities, processing issues, and more, please visit www.understood.org.

#LI-BL1

About Understood

Understood is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference. We raise awareness of the challenges and strengths of people who learn and think differently. Our resources help people navigate challenges, gain confidence, and find support and community so they can thrive. 

Having a shared commitment to our values is a key factor in any hire we make. We have five core values: 

1. Continuously learn.
2. Act with intention.
3. Champion difference.
4. Inspire change.
5. Grow together. 

Come be part of an organization with an entrepreneurial spirit that’s helping to shape the world for difference. Together, we can build a world where everyone can reach their full potential. 

To learn more about Understood, please visit: www.understood.org.

Who you are 

This internship is open to undergraduate students seeking experience in Expertise & Behavioral Health Innovation. Reporting to our Associate Director, Applied Research & Evaluation, you will contribute to meaningful projects and gain hands-on experience in your field.

This internship will be based out of our NYC office in the West Village. Interns work up to 25 hours per week: three full days in-office (Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday) and one half-day remote. Pay rate: $25/hour. We are a Mac-based environment, and team members are provided a Mac laptop for their work.

Responsibilities

• Support the Expertise & Behavioral Health Innovation team in telling our impact story for our internal products and interventions.
• Support cross-functional projects and contribute to team goals throughout the summer.
• Assist with project tracking, data interpretation, data storytelling, and research reporting.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to share learnings and insights.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to brainstorming/problem-solving discussions.

Ideal candidates will possess the following:

• Strong skills in interpreting research data/findings and consumer-friendly writing/presentations
• Familiarity with using Qualtrics dashboards and Google Workspace
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Genuine interest in engaging the public in understanding research findings
• Committed to embodying and being a steward of our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
• Bonus: Interest in data analysis and grant writing

Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Understood encourages individuals of all learning styles and ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including those whose life experiences may include the challenge of access due to a disability, to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization, as we want to engage all those who can contribute to supporting this work.

Understood is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applications without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, physical or mental disability (where the applicant or employee is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation), any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, stalking, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law or that of persons with whom that individual associates, or any other legally protected characteristics.

For additional information on learning and thinking differences, including ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, executive function challenges, nonverbal learning disabilities, processing issues, and more, please visit www.understood.org.

#LI-BL1

About Understood

Understood is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference. We raise awareness of the challenges and strengths of people who learn and think differently. Our resources help people navigate challenges, gain confidence, and find support and community so they can thrive. 

Having a shared commitment to our values is a key factor in any hire we make. We have five core values: 

1. Continuously learn.
2. Act with intention.
3. Champion difference.
4. Inspire change.
5. Grow together. 

Come be part of an organization with an entrepreneurial spirit that’s helping to shape the world for difference. Together, we can build a world where everyone can reach their full potential. 

To learn more about Understood, please visit: www.understood.org.

Who you are 

This internship is open to undergraduate students seeking experience in communications, employee engagement, or organizational communications. Reporting to our Internal Communications Manager, you will contribute to meaningful projects and gain hands-on experience in your field.

This internship will be based out of our NYC office in the West Village. Interns work up to 25 hours per week: three full days in-office (Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday) and one half-day remote. Pay rate: $25/hour. We are a Mac-based environment, and team members are provided a Mac laptop for their work.

Responsibilities

Support the Internal Communications team in executing employee communications, engagement initiatives, and employer brand efforts. This includes the following:

• Engagement Initiatives: Assist in planning and coordinating employee events, including Days of Understanding (DoU) and All Team Meetings (ATMs) (both virtual and in-person), delivering real-time, on-the-ground support during events.
• Employer Brand: Develop content that enhances Understood’s reputation as a leading neuroinclusive employer, including blog content (e.g., Behind the Impact) and social media posts in partnership with copywriters.
• Support the development of internal communications materials across channels, including presentations, internal monitors, and intranet content.
• Maintain and update project timelines, communication calendars, and team workflows; assist in documenting processes and improving systems to increase team efficiency and capacity.
• Track engagement metrics and gather insights to help improve communication effectiveness and employee engagement.
• Partner with teams across the organization to support shared initiatives and contribute to team meetings, brainstorming, and problem-solving discussions.

Ideal candidates will possess the following:

• Strong writing and storytelling skills, with the ability to communicate clearly and effectively across formats
• Basic understanding of communications strategy, including audience identification and message development
• Strategic and creative thinking skills, with a willingness to bring forward new ideas and perspectives
• Strong organizational and project coordination skills, with a high level of attention to detail
• Familiarity with Google Workspace (Slides, Docs, Sheets, Analytics) 
• Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a willingness to take initiative
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to navigate different working styles and build relationships across teams
• Genuine interest in internal communications, employee engagement, event production, content development, and marketing

Bonus skills

• Experience with graphic design tools such as Canva or Figma
• Experience with Confluence or Contentful

Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Understood encourages individuals of all learning styles and ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including those whose life experiences may include the challenge of access due to a disability, to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization, as we want to engage all those who can contribute to supporting this work.

Understood is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applications without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, physical or mental disability (where the applicant or employee is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation), any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, stalking, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law or that of persons with whom that individual associates, or any other legally protected characteristics.

For additional information on learning and thinking differences, including ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, executive function challenges, nonverbal learning disabilities, processing issues, and more, please visit www.understood.org.

#LI-BL1

About Understood

Understood is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference. We raise awareness of the challenges and strengths of people who learn and think differently. Our resources help people navigate challenges, gain confidence, and find support and community so they can thrive. 

Having a shared commitment to our values is a key factor in any hire we make. We have five core values: 

1. Continuously learn.
2. Act with intention.
3. Champion difference.
4. Inspire change.
5. Grow together. 

Come be part of an organization with an entrepreneurial spirit that’s helping to shape the world for difference. Together, we can build a world where everyone can reach their full potential. 

To learn more about Understood, please visit: www.understood.org.

Who you are 

This internship is open to undergraduate students seeking experience in Advancement. Reporting into our Associate Director of Direct Response Fundraising, you will contribute to meaningful projects and gain hands-on experience in your field.

This internship will be based out of our NYC office in the West Village. Interns work up to 25 hours per week: three full days in-office (Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday) and one half-day remote. Pay rate: $25/hour. We are a Mac-based environment, and team members are provided a Mac laptop for their work.

Responsibilities

• Support the Advancement team in donor outreach, stewardship, and digital fundraising.
• Support cross-functional projects and contribute to team goals throughout the summer.
• Assist with donor outreach and stewardship, fundraising campaign support, prospect identification, and CRM data management
• Collaborate cross-functionally to share learnings and insights.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to brainstorming/problem-solving discussions.

Ideal candidates will possess the following:

• Strong skills in writing, research, organization, and basic data analysis
• Familiarity with Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets), and an interest in learning CRM and fundraising platforms such as Virtuous and Funraise
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Genuine interest in nonprofit work, fundraising, and supporting individuals with learning and thinking differences
• Bonus: Interest in storytelling, campaign strategy, or digital fundraising

Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Understood encourages individuals of all learning styles and ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including those whose life experiences may include the challenge of access due to a disability, to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization, as we want to engage all those who can contribute to supporting this work.

Understood is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applications without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, physical or mental disability (where the applicant or employee is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation), any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, stalking, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law or that of persons with whom that individual associates, or any other legally protected characteristics.

For additional information on learning and thinking differences, including ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, executive function challenges, nonverbal learning disabilities, processing issues, and more, please visit www.understood.org.

#LI-BL1

About Understood

Understood is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference. We raise awareness of the challenges and strengths of people who learn and think differently. Our resources help people navigate challenges, gain confidence, and find support and community so they can thrive. 

Having a shared commitment to our values is a key factor in any hire we make. We have five core values: 

1. Continuously learn.
2. Act with intention.
3. Champion difference.
4. Inspire change.
5. Grow together. 

Come be part of an organization with an entrepreneurial spirit that’s helping to shape the world for difference. Together, we can build a world where everyone can reach their full potential. 

To learn more about Understood, please visit: www.understood.org.

Who you are 

To advance Understood’s mission and further our impact, we’re hiring a Senior Full-Stack Engineer, reporting to an Engineering Manager, to work across our frontend, backend, and AI systems. You’ll join a cross-functional team and collaborate closely with product, design, data, and content teams to build and evolve the platforms that power Understood.org and our AI-assisted experiences.

The ideal candidate is comfortable working across the stack—from React and Next.js on the frontend to Python and Django on the backend—and brings demonstrated experience with LLM-powered products. You’ll contribute to a growing portfolio of AI tools, including our conversational assistant and emerging multimodal experiences, while helping millions of families navigate learning and thinking differences.

This is a hybrid role that requires a minimum of three (3) days a week in our NYC office, with a focus on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. We are a Mac-based environment, and team members are provided a Mac laptop for their work. 

What you’ll do

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (product, design, data, content) to design, develop, and maintain features across the full stack
• Build high-quality, accessible frontend experiences in Next.js, React, and TypeScript, including the stateful, streaming chat and multimodal (voice, text-to-speech, speech-to-text) interfaces that power our AI assistants.
• Architect and ship the backend services and APIs (Python, Django, SQL) behind them, including integrations with PostgreSQL, Redis, Pinecone, and Contentful.
• Monitor and improve AI performance KPIs, including system latency and time-to-first-token (TTFT)
• You know how to build accessible and localized products
• Own your work across the entire software development lifecycle, from architecture and planning through development, deployment, and monitoring
• Ship early and often. Break big problems into small, releasable increments and get them in front of users using feature flags, A/B tests, and progressive rollouts rather than big-bang launches.
• Stay close to the people we serve. Dig into user feedback, support tickets, and product analytics to find the real problem, then ship the smallest change that solves it.
• Leverage tools such as DataDog, Sentry, and Langsmith for monitoring, alerting, and analytics to proactively identify and resolve issues; own your services’ health
• Collaborate effectively with both internal teams and external development partners to co-design solutions, troubleshoot integrations, and review code
• Participate in code reviews, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to continuously improving development processes and best practices
• Stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends, advocating for tools and practices that enhance our development process and product offerings

Must-haves 

• 7+ years of professional experience delivering production software, with meaningful depth in both frontend and backend development
• Strong expertise in TypeScript, React, and Next.js, including experience building stateful, streaming interfaces
• Demonstrated  experience with Python and Django (or equivalent backend frameworks)
• Proficiency in designing and building RESTful API’s
• Experience working with relational databases (PostgreSQL, MySQL) and vector databases (Pinecone)
• Comfortable working in the cloud (GCP, AWS, or similar)
• Experience monitoring and instrumenting production services; we use Datadog and expect engineers to own their services’ health
• Demonstrated ability leading projects as a technical lead
• Ability to break complex projects into small, shippable increments and get them in front of real users quickly, using feature flags, staged rollouts, and experimentation platforms (Statsig or similar) to de-risk along the way, rather than sitting on a polished v3.
• Genuine interest in user problems. You read the support inbox, watch session replays, and treat "is this actually working for people?" as part of the definition of done.
• Excellent communication skills, particularly when explaining technical matters to non-technical stakeholders and more junior engineers
• Thrives in a collaborative environment and is motivated to promote a culture of teamwork, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement
• Familiarity with observability tooling beyond basic monitoring (distributed tracing, log analytics)

Nice-to-haves

AI & Personalization

• Production experience with LLM orchestration and agent design: LangChain / LangGraph / LangSmith or equivalents, multi-agent routing, memory and personalization layers (LangMem or similar), and Model Context Protocol (MCP).
• A practical approach to making LLMs reliable in production: prompt engineering and tuning, systematic evaluation of outputs, guardrails and fallbacks, and designing around hallucinations and other failure modes.
• Experience with retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) and vector databases (Pinecone, Weaviate, pgvector, or similar).
• Experience building real-time, multimodal AI experiences (streaming text, voice, TTS/STT, Web Audio, WebRTC, real-time OpenAI SDKs), including optimizing latency and time-to-first-token (TTFT) in production.

Trust, Safety & Compliance

• Experience building or contributing to trust and safety systems (content moderation, input/output filtering, guardrails for AI-generated content)
• Familiarity with privacy-by-design principles, data classification, and consent management in user-facing products
• Understanding of compliance frameworks relevant to health-adjacent or child-focused digital products (e.g., COPPA, state companion-app laws, SOC 2, ISO 42001)

General

• Experience with Contentful
• Experience with asynchronous programming and task queues
• Experience with Docker and/or Kubernetes
• Proven ability to collaborate with and integrate code from external development agencies or contractors
• Experience with React Native or mobile app development
• A background in the nonprofit sector or a strong passion for using technology for social good

The base salary range for this role is minimum $155,000 - $175,000 maximum, depending on years of experience and qualifications. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports wellness for our team members and their families. You can learn more about our benefits and offerings.

Understood.org does not sponsor applicants for work visas or legal permanent residence, including providing assistance with OPT extensions.

Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Understood encourages individuals of all learning styles and ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including those whose life experiences may include the challenge of access due to a disability, to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization, as we want to engage all those who can contribute to supporting this work.

Understood is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applications without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, physical or mental disability (where the applicant or employee is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation), any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, stalking, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law or that of persons with whom that individual associates, or any other legally protected characteristics.

For additional information on learning and thinking differences, including ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, executive function challenges, nonverbal learning disabilities, processing issues, and more, please visit www.understood.org.

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