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Disability Rights Advocate Jobs in Rochester, NY

Disability Rights New York

Director

Rochester, NY · On-site

... Advocacy System and the Client Assistance Program for New York State is seeking an individual with a passion for achieving justice for individuals with disabilities. With a focus on civil rights and ...

Youth Advocate Programs

Advocate

Newark, NY · On-site

$18/hr

... disability or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where YAP ... For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Youth Advocate Programs

Advocate

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18/hr

... disability or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where YAP ... For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Youth Advocate Programs

Advocate

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18/hr

... disability or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where YAP ... For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Youth Advocate Programs

Advocate

Newark, NY · On-site

$18/hr

... disability or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where YAP ... For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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Disability Rights Advocate information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$32.1K

$59.8K

$84.4K

How much do disability rights advocate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for disability rights advocate in Rochester, NY is $59,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $68,100.00 per year, 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 laws, advocacy strategies, and accessibility standards, typically supported by a relevant degree or experience in social work, law, or public policy. Familiarity with legal research tools, case management systems, and accessibility technologies is often required. Outstanding communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills help advocates build trust and effectively represent individuals with disabilities. These abilities are vital for promoting equal rights, navigating complex legal systems, and driving meaningful policy change.

What are some common challenges Disability Rights Advocates face when collaborating with organizations and policymakers?

Disability Rights Advocates often encounter challenges such as navigating complex legal frameworks, addressing misconceptions about disabilities, and overcoming resistance to policy changes. Building strong partnerships with organizations and policymakers requires effective communication, persistence, and a thorough understanding of accessibility laws. Advocates must also balance the needs of individuals with disabilities while working within resource or budget constraints, making collaboration a nuanced and ongoing process.

What are Disability Rights Advocates?

Disability Rights Advocates are professionals who work to protect and advance the rights of people with disabilities. They help individuals understand their legal rights, challenge discrimination, and ensure access to necessary services and accommodations. Disability Rights Advocates may work for non-profit organizations, government agencies, or independently, and often engage in policy reform, legal representation, public education, and community outreach. Their goal is to promote equality and inclusion for people with disabilities in all aspects of society.

What is the difference between Disability Rights Advocate vs Disability Support Specialist?

AspectDisability Rights AdvocateDisability Support Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in social work, law, or related field; certifications varyOften requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications in caregiving or support services may be preferred
Work EnvironmentAdvocates work in legal settings, nonprofits, or community organizations, focusing on policy and rightsSupport specialists work directly with individuals in healthcare, residential, or community settings
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, legal aid organizations, government agenciesHealthcare providers, residential facilities, community agencies

Disability Rights Advocates focus on policy, legal rights, and systemic change, while Disability Support Specialists provide direct assistance to individuals with disabilities. Both roles are vital but differ in scope and work environment.

What are popular job titles related to Disability Rights Advocate jobs in Rochester, NY? For Disability Rights Advocate jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Disability Rights Advocate jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Disability Rights Advocate jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Disability Rights Advocate jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Disability Rights Advocate job openings:
Disability Rights Advocate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Disability Rights Advocate job openings in Rochester, NY as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,819 per year, or $28.8 per hour.
Volunteer Attorney

Volunteer Attorney

Disability Rights New York

Rochester, NY • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

EOE Statement
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
About the Organization
DRNY, the Protection and Advocacy System and the Client Assistance Program for New York State is seeking an individual with a passion for achieving justice for individuals with disabilities. With a focus on civil rights and disability justice, DRNY actively works to break down the systemic oppression of all people with disabilities. DRNY recognizes the intersecting legacies and effect of ableism, white supremacy, colonial capitalism, and gendered oppression on people with disabilities. Joining DRNY is an opportunity to challenge systemic abuse, neglect, discrimination, and rights violations through case-handling, individual and systemic litigation, public investigations, advocacy, and collaboration with stakeholders. DRNY is committed to examining bias, privilege, racism, and intersectional social change in all aspects of our work. DRNY is a civil rights advocacy leader and we are seeking new staff who will contribute to our values and mission.
Description
DRNY is pleased to welcome experienced Volunteer Attorneys to provide legal advocacy for people with disabilities. The Volunteer Attorney provides legal services and supports litigation to protect clients' civil rights.
Possible Functions
Volunteer Attorneys may engage in a wide range of advocacy activities such as:
  • Provide legal, administrative, and other appropriate means of support to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities;
  • Investigate allegations of abuse and neglect and draft investigative reports;
  • Monitor service providers for abuse, neglect, and compliance with federal and state laws and draft monitoring reports;
  • Analyze new and existing cases as well as other matters to determine if they present systemic issues; which may be appropriate for DRNY to address, and, with the Director or their designee, formulate strategies for their prevention, reduction, or elimination;
  • Consult with professionals such as attorneys, physicians, psychologists, therapists, educators, and others to identify options and barriers for individuals and groups;
  • Support DRNY projects, project teams, and initiatives that foster self-determination and self-advocacy, and coalition building;
  • Participate in committees, task forces, and other organization-wide groups;
  • Conduct and participate in training and outreach activities;
  • Maintain accurate, confidential files;
  • Maintain accurate time records and client records, including accurate use of the client tracking database for DRNY to meet its programmatic and fiscal responsibilities, and to obtain prevailing party attorney fees when appropriate;
  • Timely open and close case files regarding client matters;
  • Travel throughout New York State and outside of New York State as agreed;
  • Perform related tasks consistent with skills, abilities;
  • Other assignments as mutually agreed.

Qualifications
  • Be a member in good standing of the New York State Bar;
  • Interest and commitment to public interest law;
  • Ability to work efficiently, independently, and collaboratively as part of a team;
  • Excellent communication skills;
  • Relationship-building skills;
  • Strong organizational skills;
  • Strong problem-solving skills;
  • Demonstrated professionalism and ethical judgment;
  • Multilingual skills preferred;
  • Ability to work with diverse groups of individuals.

Preferred Experience
  • Public interest, civil rights, or disability law experience;
  • Litigation and administrative hearing experience;
  • Experience working with diverse populations.
  • NYS Driver's license preferred.

Working Conditions
The Volunteer Attorney usually performs work remotely or in an office environment. The mission of the organization may sometimes take a Volunteer Attorney to non-standard workplaces. The Volunteer Attorney may be invited to travel to various events.
The position is unpaid.
To view more about our organization, check out our YouTube videos highlighting DRNY's mission in advocating for the civil rights of individuals with disabilities. Please visit our DRNY YouTube Channel and review our DRNY Press Releases.
Position Requirements
Exempt/Non-Exempt
Exempt
Full-Time/Part-Time
-unspecified-
Location
Disability Rights New York - Rochester
Position
Volunteer Attorney
Number of Openings
1
This position is currently accepting applications.

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