WP Job Manager is a free WordPress plugin that turns any WordPress site into a job board. It is backed by Automattic, has a large community, and gives you full control over your data and design. The free core plugin handles basic listings, while paid add-ons unlock features like applications management, resume uploads, and job alerts. That flexibility comes with a real trade-off: you are responsible for hosting, security, updates, and stitching together a patchwork of add-ons to match what hosted platforms ship out of the box.
WP Job Manager vs hosted platforms
| Factor | WP Job Manager | Hosted platforms (Cavuno, Kardow) |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free core + $159/yr Pro Bundle | $17-29/mo all-inclusive |
| Hosting required | Yes, $10-50/mo separately | No, included |
| Maintenance | You handle updates, backups, security | Handled for you |
| Setup time | Days to weeks | Minutes |
| Customization | Unlimited with WordPress themes/plugins | Limited to platform options |
| SEO setup | Manual with extra plugins | Built-in, preconfigured |
| Best for | Technical users wanting full control | Operators focused on growth |
How to evaluate WP Job Manager alternatives
Our job board software buyer's guide covers the 9 key decisions for choosing a platform. Here's how those decisions apply when evaluating WP Job Manager alternatives specifically.
Switching away from WP Job Manager, or deciding not to start with it, is a question of where you want to spend your time. Here is what matters most when comparing your options.
Technical architecture: the maintenance burden
Running WP Job Manager means running WordPress. That means keeping PHP, your theme, your plugins, and WordPress core updated. A single outdated plugin can break your site or open a security hole. If you are technical and already manage WordPress sites, this is routine. If you are launching a job board as a side project or a niche business, every hour spent on server maintenance is an hour not spent on growing your board. Hosted alternatives like Cavuno at $29/mo or Jobboardly at $40/mo eliminate this entirely. Updates, backups, and infrastructure are handled for you.
