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Human Rights Activist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SIMON WIESENTHAL CENTER

Tour Guide

Los Angeles, CA

$20/hr

The Simon Wiesenthal Center (SWC) is a global Jewish human rights activist organization that confronts anti-Semitism, hate, stands with Israel, defends the safety of Jews worldwide, and teaches the ...

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Human Rights Activist information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$109K

$172.2K

How much do human rights activist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for human rights activist in California is $109,021.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,900.00 and $139,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Human Rights Activist, you need a deep understanding of human rights laws, research abilities, and advocacy experience, often supported by a relevant degree in law, political science, or international relations. Familiarity with advocacy platforms, social media tools, and case management systems is commonly required. Exceptional communication, resilience, and networking skills help activists mobilize communities and influence policy change. These skills are crucial for effectively defending human rights, raising awareness, and creating meaningful social impact.

What are some common challenges faced by Human Rights Activists in their daily work?

Human Rights Activists often encounter challenges such as navigating complex legal frameworks, addressing sensitive issues in diverse communities, and managing the emotional impact of witnessing human rights violations. They may also face resistance from authorities or organizations opposed to their advocacy efforts. Building effective coalitions and maintaining personal resilience are crucial for overcoming these obstacles and advancing their mission.

What are human rights activists?

Human rights activists are individuals who work to promote, protect, and advocate for the basic rights and freedoms that belong to all people. They may raise awareness about human rights violations, support victims, lobby for legal reforms, and engage in peaceful protests or campaigns. Human rights activists can work independently, as part of grassroots movements, or within organizations. Their work often focuses on issues such as equality, freedom of expression, and protection from abuse or discrimination.

What is the difference between Human Rights Activist vs Social Worker?

AspectHuman Rights ActivistSocial Worker
CredentialsMay have degrees in law, political science, or human rights; certifications varyTypically requires a degree in social work or psychology; licensure often needed
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, international agenciesHospitals, schools, community agencies, government offices
Industry UsageUsed in advocacy, policy change, awareness campaignsUsed in direct client support, counseling, community services

While both roles aim to improve well-being and justice, Human Rights Activists focus on advocacy and policy change at broader levels, whereas Social Workers provide direct support and services to individuals and communities. Both professions often collaborate but serve different functions within the social justice landscape.

What are popular job titles related to Human Rights Activist jobs in California? For Human Rights Activist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Human Rights Activist jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Human Rights Activist jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Human Rights Activist jobs? Cities in California with the most Human Rights Activist job openings:
Human Rights Activist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Human Rights Activist job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 4% As Needed, 20% Full Time, 68% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,021 per year, or $52.4 per hour.
Tour Guide

Tour Guide

SIMON WIESENTHAL CENTER

Los Angeles, CA

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

About us:

The Simon Wiesenthal Center (SWC) is a global Jewish human rights activist organization that confronts anti-Semitism, hate, stands with Israel, defends the safety of Jews worldwide, and teaches the lessons of the Holocaust for future generations.  It is an accredited Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) at the United Nations, UNESCO and the OSCE, the Organization of American States, the Latin American Parliament, and the Council of Europe.  The SWC is headquartered in Los Angeles with offices in New York, Chicago, Miami, Toronto, Paris, Jerusalem and Buenos Aires. The Museum of Tolerance Los Angeles, founded in 1993, is the educational arm of the SWC. Moriah Films is the Center’s two-time Academy Award®-winning film division and the Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem is scheduled to open in 2024.

About the role:

The Museum of Tolerance is seeking an experienced, energetic and engaging Part Time Tour Guides to provide museum tours, in all permanent and special exhibitions, in order to enhance the quality of the museum experience for all visitors. 

About you:

You are passionate about making the Museum of Tolerance relevant for our visitors. You believe in the mission of the Museum and in the values of human and civil rights and Holocaust education. You have a great demeanor, professional behavior and impeccable customer service skills. 

This position will report to the MOT Floor Coordinators and is based in Los Angeles.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead museum tours and assist museum visitors
  • Serve as stationary guide in assigned locations
  • Communicate with Floor Coordinator team daily for assigned duties
  • Participate in all professional development opportunities
  • Must be available to work flexible days Sunday through Friday as needed and hours starting as early as 8:30am
  • Must be able to commit to working 29 hours per week
  • SUNDAY HOURS ARE REQUIRED
  • Other duties as assigned by full-time Floor Coordinator Supervisor

Our Benefits:

This role is part time (under 29 hours per week).

The Simon Wiesenthal Center embraces inclusivity and values our diverse community. We are committed to building a team based on qualifications, merit and business need. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Experience and Skills:

  • Comfortable in a dynamic, fast paced and highly flexible environment
  • Excellent communication & interpersonal skills
  • Excellent presentation skills with groups and general public
  • Ability and desire to work with students of all ages, especially high school students
  • Multilingual skills are a bonus

Physical Requirements:

  • This job requires standing/walking for up to 3 hours multiple times per day

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