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Human Rights Advocacy Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Advocate

Lansing, MI · On-site

$58K - $62K/yr

Individual direct advocacy; * Information and referral; data collection; reporting; and outreach ... education or human services experience including experience working with disability rights.

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Program Assistant

Lansing, MI · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

... support, human services, and disability rights experience; or any equivalent combination of ... to advocate and protect the legal rights of people with disabilities. Visit www.drmich.org for ...

Jeremy Levine) What do universities, hospitals, churches, labor unions. parks, anti-poverty agencies, museums, environmental agencies. human rights advocates, and transportation departments all have ...

FMS Coordinator- SDP

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

... with advocacy organizations (e.g., Autism Society, Disability Rights groups, Family Resource ... Employer-of-Record (EOR) & HR Support: * Assist participants serving as Employers-of-Record with ...

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Human Rights Advocacy information

See Michigan salary details

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How much do human rights advocacy jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for human rights advocacy in Michigan is $22.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is human rights advocacy?

A Human Rights Advocacy job involves promoting, protecting, and defending human rights through research, policy development, public awareness, and direct support for affected individuals or communities. Advocates work for NGOs, government agencies, or international organizations to address issues like discrimination, inequality, and human rights violations. Responsibilities may include lobbying for policy changes, conducting investigations, writing reports, and providing legal or humanitarian aid. The role requires strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills to influence decision-makers and drive social change.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in human rights advocacy?

To thrive in Human Rights Advocacy, a strong background in law, social sciences, or international relations, along with experience in research and policy analysis, is essential. Familiarity with case management systems, legal research tools, and certifications such as CIPP (Certified Information Privacy Professional) or relevant human rights courses can be beneficial. Exceptional interpersonal, cross-cultural communication, and negotiation skills help advocates build trust and mobilize support across diverse groups. These abilities are crucial for effectively promoting human rights, influencing policy, and supporting vulnerable populations in complex environments.

What are some typical challenges faced in human rights advocacy?

Professionals in Human Rights Advocacy often face challenges such as navigating complex legal frameworks, managing sensitive information, and confronting emotionally charged cases involving vulnerable populations. They may encounter resistance from institutions or communities, which requires resilience and strategic communication. Balancing advocacy, research, and public outreach is a regular part of the job, and collaborating with legal teams, NGOs, and government agencies is common to create impactful change. While challenging, the role offers significant personal and professional growth for individuals passionate about justice and human rights.

How do you become a human rights advocate?

To become a human rights advocate, individuals typically pursue a relevant degree such as political science, law, or international relations, and gain experience through internships or volunteer work with organizations focused on human rights. Developing skills in research, communication, and advocacy, along with understanding international laws and policies, is essential. Building a network within the field and staying informed about current issues also support a career in human rights advocacy.

What do human rights advocates do?

Human rights advocates work to promote and protect fundamental rights and freedoms for all individuals. They research issues, raise awareness, lobby policymakers, and may provide legal or humanitarian support to address violations and promote social justice.

What are popular job titles related to Human Rights Advocacy jobs in Michigan?

For Human Rights Advocacy jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Human Rights Advocacy jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Human Rights Advocacy jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Human Rights Advocacy jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Human Rights Advocacy job openings:

Infographic showing various Human Rights Advocacy job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 89% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,070 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Advocate

Disability Rights Michigan

Lansing, MI • On-site

$58K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

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Job description

Disability Rights Michigan (DRM) has an immediate full-time (37.5 hours per week) advocate position on the Education Team located in Lansing; the position is hybrid with flexibility.


Interested applicants MUST include a cover letter and resume to be considered.

Federal Student Loan Forgiveness Qualified


Job Summary

Provides individual and systemic advocacy, training, and outreach on behalf of individuals with disabilities experiencing violation of their legal and service rights related to education.


The advocate will provide:

  • Individual direct advocacy;
  • Information and referral; data collection; reporting; and outreach and training to address agency mission and focus areas for individuals with disabilities.
  • The individual provides advocacy, using a variety of approaches which may include client counsel, filing formal complaints, negotiation, or other activities, as assigned in accordance with the Education Team work plan, following agency casework standards and agency ethical guiding principles.
  • Maintains current knowledge of legal mandates, court rulings, government systems and agency policies related to the rights of individuals with disabilities including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Rehabilitation Act, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Michigan Mental Health Code, state special education rules, and other resources.
  • Successfully complete background check.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a human service-related field preferred or equivalent education and/or experience.
  • Two to four years of related education or human services experience including experience working with disability rights.
  • Experience with state special education rules and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act a plus.
  • Candidates must demonstrate effective communication, problem-solving and advocacy skills and the ability to listen and respond in a diplomatic manner.
  • Demonstrated commitment to the civil rights of all people and the ability to work with individuals with a variety of disability characteristics and backgrounds.
  • Mental ability to adapt and respond to multiple priorities and demands, deal with the concerns/ emotional needs of clients/families in a timely manner, and handle pressures related to appropriately responding to stressful/disturbing situations.


Salary: $58,000 - $62,000 Depending on experience. Excellent benefit package. Federal Student Loan Forgiveness qualified.



Company Description

The mission of Disability Rights Michigan (DRM) is to advocate and protect the legal rights of people with disabilities.

Visit www.drmich.org for further information