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Civil Rights Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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SR Paralegal

Portland, OR · On-site

$29 - $34/hr

Civil Rights Paralegal & Community Outreach Coordinator Long-Term Federal Agency Contract Opportunity Location: Portland, Oregon Schedule: Full-Time | Monday-Friday Are you passionate about civil ...

Civil Rights Paralegal Do you want your paralegal experience to support work that matters? DiverseGOV is currently seeking legal professionals throughout the United States to support our customers ...

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Civil Rights information

See Portland, OR salary details

$40.3K

$87.7K

$130.4K

How much do civil rights jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil rights in Portland, OR is $87,676.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,600.00 and $104,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are Jobs in Civil Rights?

Attorneys who specialize in civil rights cases protect and advocate for individuals or groups facing discrimination. This job involves defending clients in courts, creating legal documents, and doing advocacy work on behalf of clients. The duties of a civil rights attorney focus on ensuring that vulnerable individuals who face a human rights issue ultimately receive justice through the court of law. Your responsibilities may include advocacy on behalf of civil rights groups, such as the NAACP. As a civil rights attorney, you may use your skills to expand and enforce freedoms granted by the United States Constitution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Civil Rights Attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Civil Rights Attorney, you need a law degree, a valid license to practice law, and a solid understanding of constitutional and civil rights law. Familiarity with legal research databases (like Westlaw or LexisNexis), litigation software, and courtroom procedures is typically required. Exceptional analytical thinking, persuasive communication, and a strong sense of empathy are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for effectively advocating for clients, navigating complex legal systems, and upholding justice in civil rights cases.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in civil rights roles, and how can they prepare for them?

Professionals in civil rights roles often navigate complex legal, social, and political environments while advocating for equity and justice. Common challenges include managing emotionally charged situations, balancing competing interests, and staying updated on evolving laws and policies. To prepare, job seekers should develop strong communication and conflict resolution skills, remain adaptable, and pursue continuous education in relevant regulations. Building a supportive network within the organization and the broader civil rights community can also help address these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Civil Rights vs Equal Opportunity Specialist?

AspectCivil RightsEqual Opportunity Specialist
Required CredentialsLegal knowledge, civil rights law certificationsHR certifications, equal employment opportunity training
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, legal settingsHR departments, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in civil rights enforcement and advocacyUsed in workplace compliance and HR
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on civil rights laws and violationsFocuses on workplace fairness and policies

While both roles involve ensuring fairness and legal compliance, Civil Rights professionals primarily focus on enforcing civil rights laws and addressing violations, often within legal or governmental settings. Equal Opportunity Specialists concentrate on promoting workplace fairness, preventing discrimination, and ensuring employer compliance with equal employment laws within organizations.

What are civil rights jobs?

Civil rights jobs are positions focused on protecting and advancing equal rights and freedoms for all individuals, regardless of race, gender, religion, or other characteristics. Professionals in this field may work as lawyers, advocates, investigators, researchers, or educators, often within government agencies, non-profits, or legal organizations. Their work involves enforcing anti-discrimination laws, promoting social justice, and supporting individuals or groups whose rights have been violated. These roles play a vital part in upholding fairness and equality in society.
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Civil Rights jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Civil Rights job openings:
SR Paralegal

SR Paralegal

The Midtown Group

Portland, OR • On-site

$29 - $34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

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Job description

Civil Rights Paralegal & Community Outreach Coordinator

Long-Term Federal Agency Contract Opportunity

Location: Portland, Oregon
Schedule: Full-Time | Monday-Friday

Are you passionate about civil rights, community engagement, and making a meaningful impact? We are seeking an experienced Paralegal and Community Outreach Coordinator to support a Federal Agency in Portland, Oregon. This is an exciting long-term contract opportunity supporting high-profile civil rights initiatives that directly benefit communities across the state.

If you enjoy legal research, public service, outreach, and working alongside attorneys on matters that protect civil rights, this position offers a rewarding career with purpose.

Position Overview

The Civil Rights Paralegal & Community Outreach Coordinator serves as a critical member of the Agency's civil rights team by supporting attorneys with complaint intake, legal case support, community engagement, and outreach initiatives. This position helps ensure that civil rights complaints are properly evaluated while strengthening relationships with community organizations and government partners throughout Oregon.

Key Responsibilities

Civil Rights Intake & Case Support

  • Receive, document, and manage civil rights complaints from members of the public.
  • Conduct initial interviews with complainants and gather relevant facts and supporting documentation.
  • Screen complaints for jurisdiction and determine appropriate referrals when necessary.
  • Maintain accurate case records and legal databases.
  • Coordinate with attorneys and investigative personnel throughout the life of assigned matters.
  • Assist with investigative activities by compiling evidence, organizing case files, and supporting litigation preparation.
  • Serve as a point of contact for complainants and provide procedural updates as appropriate.

Community Outreach & Public Engagement

  • Develop and coordinate community outreach initiatives that promote awareness of federal civil rights protections.
  • Build partnerships with nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, legal aid organizations, and government agencies.
  • Identify and engage organizations involved in civil rights advocacy throughout Oregon.
  • Represent the Agency at meetings, community events, educational forums, and outreach programs.
  • Coordinate presentations and training sessions for federal, state, and local organizations.
  • Develop educational materials, brochures, presentations, and outreach resources.
  • Assist with planning conferences, workshops, and public awareness events.

Program Coordination

  • Support district-wide civil rights initiatives and community engagement programs.
  • Coordinate meetings, maintain outreach calendars, and provide operational support for ongoing programs.
  • Prepare reports and recommendations regarding outreach efforts and community needs.
  • Brief leadership on emerging community concerns and outreach opportunities.

Administrative & Legal Support

  • Maintain calendars and schedules.
  • Draft correspondence and routine legal documents.
  • Manage incoming calls, visitors, and inquiries professionally.
  • Organize legal records and assist with document management.
  • Support attorneys with legal file preparation and case management.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience as a Paralegal, Legal Assistant, or Civil Litigation Support Specialist.
  • Strong organizational and communication skills.
  • Experience conducting interviews and interacting with diverse populations.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
  • Experience with legal document management and case tracking.
  • Public speaking or community outreach experience is highly desirable.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

Ideal Candidate

The successful candidate is:

  • Passionate about public service and civil rights.
  • Professional, organized, and detail-oriented.
  • Comfortable engaging with community members from diverse backgrounds.
  • Able to balance legal support responsibilities with outreach initiatives.
  • Skilled at building collaborative relationships with stakeholders.

Security Requirements

Candidates must successfully pass:

  • Criminal Background Investigation
  • Credit Check
  • Full-time schedule
  • Long-term Federal Agency contract
  • Base Year with Option Years

If you're looking for a rewarding legal support position where your work positively impacts communities and advances civil rights, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today to join a dedicated team supporting important federal initiatives in Portland, Oregon.