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Human Rights Advocate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Temporary STLS Advocate

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $25.75/hr

We protect the rights of and provide services to pre-kindergarten through 12th grade children and ... Good human relations skills; excellent oral communication skills; good writing skills. Education ...

Temporary STLS Advocate

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $25.75/hr

We protect the rights of and provide services to pre-kindergarten through 12th grade children and ... Good human relations skills; excellent oral communication skills; good writing skills. Education ...

Temporary STLS Advocate

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $25.75/hr

We protect the rights of and provide services to pre-kindergarten through 12th grade children and ... Good human relations skills; excellent oral communication skills; good writing skills. Education ...

Previous experience working on womens and/or human rights issues, addressing sexual violence ... Ability to objectively advocate for the needs/rights of others * Excellent verbal and written ...

Case Manager

Des Plaines, IL ยท On-site

$56K/yr

Advocate for the rights and services of people supported, including participation in Human Rights Committee meetings. * Involve individuals in advocacy and decision-making processes to the extent ...

Case Management Specialist

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$53K - $55K/yr

Previous experience working on women's and/or human rights issues, addressing sexual violence ... Ability to objectively advocate for the needs/rights of others * Excellent verbal and written ...

Residential Program Manager

Northbrook, IL ยท On-site

$63K - $70K/yr

Advocate for the rights of individuals served through supervising the development and ... Bachelors degree or in human services, a related field, or extensive coursework in psychology ...

Residential Program Manager

Northbrook, IL ยท On-site

$63K - $70K/yr

Advocate for the rights of individuals served through supervising the development and ... Bachelor's degree or in human services, a related field, or extensive coursework in psychology ...

Residential Program Manager

Northbrook, IL ยท On-site

$63K - $70K/yr

Advocate for the rights of individuals served through supervising the development and ... Bachelor's degree or in human services, a related field, or extensive coursework in psychology ...

Parent Ambassador

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Part mentor, part motivator, part advocate, since 1857, Metropolitan Family Services (MFS) has been ... Metropolitan is Illinois' first comprehensive human services agency and reaches more than 117,000 ...

Advocate for the rights of individuals served through supervising the development and ... Bachelors degree or in human services, a related field, or extensive coursework in psychology ...

Showing results 21-40

Human Rights Advocate information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$20

$31

How much do human rights advocate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for human rights advocate in Illinois is $20.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a human rights advocate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Human Rights Advocate, you need a solid understanding of human rights law, research skills, and often a background in law, social sciences, or international relations. Familiarity with legal research databases, advocacy tools, and data management systems is typically required, and certifications in human rights or related fields are advantageous. Outstanding communication, cultural sensitivity, and resilience help you effectively engage with diverse communities and stakeholders. These skills and qualities are crucial for influencing policy, raising awareness, and protecting the rights of vulnerable populations.

What is a human rights advocate?

Human rights advocates are professionals or activists who work to promote and protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals and groups. They may operate locally, nationally, or internationally, raising awareness about human rights issues, lobbying for legislative change, and supporting victims of abuses. Their work often involves research, public education, policy analysis, and direct advocacy with governments, organizations, or communities. Human rights advocates can work for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international bodies, or as independent activists.

What are some common challenges human rights advocates face when working with at-risk communities?

Human Rights Advocates often encounter challenges such as building trust with at-risk communities who may be wary of outsiders or fear repercussions for speaking out. Navigating complex legal and cultural landscapes, managing emotional stress from exposure to difficult situations, and balancing advocacy with the need for objectivity can also be demanding. Successful advocates focus on active listening, cultural sensitivity, and collaboration with local organizations to overcome these obstacles and create meaningful change.

How do you become a human rights advocate?

To become a human rights advocate, individuals typically pursue a bachelor's degree in fields like human rights, law, or social sciences, and gain experience through internships or volunteer work with related organizations. Developing strong communication, research, and advocacy skills is essential, and some roles may require advanced degrees or specialized certifications. Building a network within human rights communities and staying informed about global issues also support career advancement.

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

AspectHuman Rights AdvocateSocial Worker
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's in human rights, law, or related fieldsRequires a bachelor's or master's in social work or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, international agencies, legal settingsHospitals, schools, community agencies, government offices
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, NGOs, government agencies focused on human rightsPublic and private social service agencies
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for advocacy roles, policy work, legal advocacyCompared for direct client support, case management, community services

While both roles aim to improve well-being and justice, Human Rights Advocates focus on policy, legal advocacy, and systemic change at a broader level, whereas Social Workers provide direct support and services to individuals and communities. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the social justice field.

What are popular job titles related to Human Rights Advocate jobs in Illinois? For Human Rights Advocate jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Human Rights Advocate jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Human Rights Advocate jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Human Rights Advocate jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Human Rights Advocate job openings:
Infographic showing various Human Rights Advocate job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,662 per year, or $21 per hour.

Temporary STLS Advocate

Chicago Public Schools

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$20 - $25.75/hr

Temporary

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is one of the largest school districts in the United States, serving over 330,000 students in 600+ schools and employing nearly 36,000 people, most of them teachers. CPS has set ambitious goals to ensure that every student, in every school and every neighborhood, has access to a world-class learning experience that prepares each for success in college, career, and civic life. In order to fulfill this mission, we make three commitments to our students, their families, and all Chicagoans: academic progress, financial stability, and integrity. Six core values are embedded within these commitments - student-centered, whole child, equity, academic excellence, community partnership, and continuous learning.
The Students in Temporary Living Situations Department advocates for students in temporary living situations. We address barriers to enrollment, transportation, attendance, and retention, and provide students and families with information about available resources.
We protect the rights of and provide services to pre-kindergarten through 12th grade children and their families who are experiencing homelessness.
Job Summary: This role aligns with the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act and operates under the supervision of the school principal. The primary duty is to serve as a liaison between the school and the community, performing related tasks as necessary.
The Job Title will be held accountable for the following responsibilities:

  • Identification and Enrollment:
    • Identify students in temporary living situations (STLS) with sensitivity and proactivity.
    • Execute enrollment procedures for STLS students, ensuring immediate enrollment without documentation concerns.
  • Transportation Facilitation:
    • Determine transportation eligibility for each STLS student.
    • Implement STLS transportation processes for CTA and hardship transportation.
    • Manage CTA card distribution and inventory.
  • Compliance and Documentation:
    • Ensure compliance with STLS program requirements.
    • Complete all STLS accountability reports accurately and on time.
    • Manage STLS student records in the Aspen Student Information System, ensuring timely and accurate updates.
  • Academic Support:
    • Develop student action plans to address underlying issues and barriers to academic success.
    • Monitor attendance and academic performance, utilizing data for informed decision-making.
  • Community Engagement:
    • Connect with community-based organizations and local homeless services.
    • Maintain relationships with local shelter providers, housing service providers, and other community-based organizations.
  • Collaboration and Dispute Resolution:
    • Collaborate with school and district staff, participating in dispute resolution.
    • Refer and connect students to school-based programs and resources.
  • Communication and Evaluation:
    • Maintain ongoing communication with STLS students and parents.
    • Document interventions and evaluate program success.
  • Legislation and Policy Adherence:
    • Stay informed about applicable legislation and policies, including the McKinney Vento Act and Every Student Succeeds Acts.
  • Student Transitions and Post-Secondary Assistance:
    • Assist with student transitions and matriculation.
    • Provide support for navigating post-secondary options and resources.
  • Record Management:
    • Administer tasks to evaluate STLS student, parent, and program success and feedback.
    • Ensure accuracy and compliance with enrollment protocols in STLS student records.
  • Other duties as assigned by Principals and/or other school leaders that are not specific to support for STLS students should not exceed 10% of an STLS Advocate's time.

In order to be successful and achieve the above responsibilities, the Job Title must possess the following qualifications: Strong roots in the community and experience supporting students and caregivers struggling with housing instability. Good knowledge of community organizations and social service agencies, knowledge of CPS and Federal regulations. Ability to develop strong working relationships with students and caregivers. Empathy for the struggles and needs of our students. Ability to work with various and diverse community organizations and members; ability to prepare routine written reports; ability to recognize and respond to community and parents' concerns and educational interests. Good human relations skills; excellent oral communication skills; good writing skills.
Education Required:
  • Graduation from an accredited educational institution with a Bachelor's degree required.

Experience Required:
  • Engaging collaboratively with communities and families who are experiencing vulnerability, and providing tailored support and resources to address their unique challenges and foster resilience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • In-depth knowledge of community organizations and social service agencies, along with a solid understanding of CPS and Federal regulations.
  • Proven ability to cultivate strong working relationships with both students and caregivers.
  • Demonstrated empathy for the struggles and needs of students experiencing housing instability.
  • Proficiency in collaborating with diverse community organizations and members.
  • Skill in preparing routine written reports to effectively communicate information.
  • Ability to recognize and respond to community and parents' concerns and educational interests.
  • Strong human relations skills, fostering positive interactions.
  • Excellent oral communication skills for effective engagement.
  • Competence in written communication, ensuring clear and concise expression of ideas.

Conditions of Employment
As a condition of employment with the Chicago Public Schools (CPS), employees are required to:
  • Establish/Maintain Chicago Residency - Employees are required to live within the geographic boundaries of the City of Chicago within six months of their CPS hire date and maintain residency throughout their employment with the district. The Chicago residency requirement does not apply to temporary/part-time positions, however, all CPS employees must be residents of Illinois.
  • Be Fully Vaccinated Against COVID-19 - Unless approved for a medical or religious exemption, all employees are required to be up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccinations, including boosters, and to submit proof of vaccination to the district within 30 days of hire. "Up-to-date" on vaccination is defined as being at least two weeks past all primary vaccine doses and any applicable boosters.