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RCIL

Disability Rights Advocate

Herkimer, NY · 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 ...

RCIL

Disability Rights Advocate

Amsterdam, NY · 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 ...

RCIL

Disability Rights Advocate

Utica, NY · 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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How much do disability rights advocates jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for disability rights advocates 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, a deep understanding of disability law, social justice principles, and advocacy strategies is essential, often supported by a degree in law, social work, or related fields. Familiarity with legal research databases, case management software, and accessibility technologies is typically required. Outstanding communication, empathy, and negotiation skills help build trust with clients and effectively influence policy or legal outcomes. These skills are vital to ensuring equitable access, upholding rights, and driving positive change for individuals with disabilities.

What are some common challenges Disability Rights Advocates face when working with clients and institutions?

Disability Rights Advocates often encounter challenges such as navigating complex legal frameworks, overcoming societal misconceptions about disabilities, and addressing resistance from institutions unfamiliar with accessibility requirements. Advocates must balance empathy for clients with the need to be persistent and detail-oriented in negotiations and legal processes. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including legal professionals, social workers, and policy makers—is essential to effectively address barriers and secure meaningful change for individuals with disabilities.

What are Disability Rights Advocates?

Disability Rights Advocates are professionals or organizations dedicated to promoting and protecting the rights of people with disabilities. They work to ensure equal access, prevent discrimination, and improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities through legal action, policy advocacy, education, and community support. Their efforts may include challenging inaccessible public spaces, advocating for inclusive education, or fighting for fair employment opportunities. Disability Rights Advocates play a crucial role in advancing social justice and ensuring compliance with laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

What is the difference between Disability Rights Advocates vs Disability Rights Specialist?

AspectDisability Rights AdvocatesDisability Rights Specialist
CredentialsLegal education, law degree, or legal backgroundRelevant certifications, social work, or advocacy training
Work EnvironmentLegal settings, non-profits, advocacy organizationsCommunity organizations, healthcare, social services
Employer & IndustryLegal firms, non-profits focused on disability rightsHealthcare providers, social service agencies

Disability Rights Advocates primarily focus on legal action and policy change to protect disability rights, often working in legal or non-profit settings. Disability Rights Specialists typically work directly with individuals or communities, providing support and advocacy within social or healthcare environments. Both roles require knowledge of disability issues, but their focus and work settings differ.

More about Disability Rights Advocates jobs
What cities are hiring for Disability Rights Advocates jobs? Cities with the most Disability Rights Advocates job openings:
What states have the most Disability Rights Advocates jobs? States with the most job openings for Disability Rights Advocates jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Disability Rights Advocates jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Disability Rights Advocates jobs are:
Disability Rights Advocates jobs near you
Infographic showing various Disability Rights Advocates job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 8% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,071 per year, or $26 per hour.

Disability Rights Advocate

RCIL

Herkimer, NY • On-site

$37.86K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Annual Non-Exempt Salary: $37,856

35 Hour Work Week

Benefits:

  • PTO – 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.