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Disability Rights Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Utica, NY RCIL is a civil rights organization that offers individuals with disabilities a wide range of independent living and advocacy services through the numerous programs we manage. RCIL is an ...

Utica, NY RCIL is a civil rights organization that offers individuals with disabilities a wide range of independent living and advocacy services through the numerous programs we manage. RCIL is an ...

Disability Rights Advocate

Utica, NY ยท On-site

$37.86K/yr

Utica, NY RCIL is a civil rights organization that offers individuals with disabilities a wide range of independent living and advocacy services through the numerous programs we manage. RCIL is an ...

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Disability Rights information

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$12

$25

$45

How much do disability rights jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for disability rights in the United States is $26.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $29.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Disability Rights Advocate, you need a solid understanding of disability law, advocacy techniques, and relevant social policies, often supported by a degree in social work, law, or a related field. Familiarity with legal research tools, accessibility technologies, and case management systems is typically required. Strong communication, cultural competency, and problem-solving skills help you effectively represent and empower individuals with disabilities. These skills are crucial for promoting equal access, influencing policy, and successfully advocating for the rights of people with disabilities.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in disability rights advocacy, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in disability rights advocacy often encounter challenges such as navigating complex legal frameworks, addressing systemic barriers, and ensuring meaningful participation for people with disabilities in decision-making. Building strong relationships with community organizations, staying updated on evolving legislation, and participating in cross-disciplinary teams are key strategies to overcome these obstacles. Additionally, effective communication and ongoing training can help advocates create more accessible environments and drive impactful change.

What are disability rights jobs?

Disability rights jobs are positions focused on advocating for and protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities. These roles can include advocacy, legal counsel, policy development, education, and support services. Professionals in this field work to ensure equal access, prevent discrimination, and promote inclusion for people with disabilities in areas like employment, education, healthcare, and public life. Common workplaces include non-profit organizations, government agencies, law firms, and educational institutions.

What is the difference between Disability Rights vs Disability Advocates?

AspectDisability RightsDisability Advocates
CredentialsLegal knowledge, advocacy certificationsAdvocacy training, community outreach skills
Work EnvironmentLegal settings, policy offices, courtsCommunity organizations, non-profits, outreach events
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, legal institutionsNon-profit organizations, advocacy groups

Disability Rights professionals focus on legal advocacy, policy development, and ensuring legal protections for individuals with disabilities. Disability Advocates often work directly with communities, providing support, education, and outreach to promote awareness and access. While both roles aim to improve the lives of people with disabilities, Disability Rights roles are more policy and law-oriented, whereas Disability Advocates emphasize community engagement and direct support.

More about Disability Rights jobs
What cities are hiring for Disability Rights jobs? Cities with the most Disability Rights job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Disability Rights jobs? The most popular types of Disability Rights jobs are:
What states have the most Disability Rights jobs? States with the most job openings for Disability Rights jobs include:
Infographic showing various Disability Rights job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 11% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,071 per year, or $26 per hour.

Disability Rights Advocate

RCIL

Herkimer, NY โ€ข On-site

$37.86K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Annual Non-Exempt Salary: $37,856

35 Hour Work Week

Benefits:

  • PTO โ€“ vacation (16-24 days a year based on longevity) Sick leave 12 days a year, and 13 paid holidays.
  • Ability to work a 4-day schedule after 6 months on the job. Multiple work schedules available.
  • Wellness program with the ability to earn an additional 3 PTO days a year.
  • 401K with up to 10% employer investment.
  • Heavily subsidized Health Insurance with co-pays.
  • Vision and Dental insurance.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts-Medical and Dependent Care.
  • Monthly contribution towards dependent care. (to offset childcare costs)
  • Company paid Life Insurance and Identity theft protection. (LifeLock)
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Family Medical Leave, Paid Family Leave, Military Leave, Bereavement Leave, Jury Duty Leave, Bone Marrow and Blood Donation Leave, Voting Time Leave, Election Leave, and Leaves for Crime Victims and Domestic Violence Victims.
  • Employees may be eligible for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness program to have student loans forgiven.
  • Free covered parking.
  • Additional benefits available.

Job Duties:

The successful candidate will be expected to:

  • Conduct consumer intakes and needs assessments.
  • Provide service to assist and support individuals with disabilities to live independently in the community.
  • Provide information and referrals to appropriate community resources.
  • Work with individuals and agencies to collaborate with businesses and service providers to promote accessibility improvements.
  • Educate consumers on self-advocacy strategies and guide them in resolving issues independently when possible.
  • Provide Community outreach.
  • Support consumers in identifying and addressing barriers to accessibility in homes and public spaces.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of systems, benefits, and community supports relevant to individuals with disabilities.
  • Help investigate, document, and chart ADA and accessibility issues in the community along with Systems ADA coordinator

Education:

  • A College Degree is preferred; a High School Diploma or equivalent is required. Related experience may be considered in lieu of higher education.

Experience:

  • Two-four years working with people with disabilities.
  • Experience working with either aging populations/senior services, or youth services/educational advocacy.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

  • ADA, IDEA, 504, ACCES-VR, CVMH, SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, Snap, Heap, Welfare reform, Benefit programs, legislative process and issues impacting seniors and people with disabilities.
  • Knowledge of Independent Living Philosophy.
  • Computer skills.
  • Mediation, negotiation, planning, community networking, innovation, collaboration, oral and written communication, flexibility, organization, public speaking, excellent customer service, working with diverse population, outlook and Microsoft programs.

Travel Required: Yes, minimal

Location: Utica, NY

RCIL is a civil rights organization that offers individuals with disabilities a wide range of independent living and advocacy services through the numerous programs we manage.

RCIL is an equal opportunity employer and it is the policy of RCIL not to discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of age, color, sex, disability, national origin, race, religion, or veteran status.