1

Human Rights Advocate Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

You will provide advocacy services throughout the appointment and ensure that all follow-up ... the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. Sheppard Pratt currently has 5,000 employees, and we are ...

We are seeking a dedicated RN to provide vital nursing services, advocacy, and clinical leadership ... Actively contribute to Individual Health Plan (IHP) teams, Human Rights Committees, and Health ...

$190K - $300K/yr

Human Health Government Affairs & Policy team is responsible for representing the company in its ... Lead advocacy strategy to address key policy issues affecting our company and the pharmaceutical ...

Protect and advocate for the rights and dignity of Persons served. * Maintain confidentiality and ... High school diploma or equivalent required; some college coursework in human services, psychology ...

Showing results 21-40

Human Rights Advocate information

See Maryland salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do human rights advocate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for human rights advocate in Maryland is $21.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $24.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

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 organizations focused on human rights issues. 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 relevant legal and social issues also support career development.

What jobs can I get with a human rights advocate degree?

A degree in human rights advocacy can lead to roles such as human rights officer, policy analyst, nonprofit program coordinator, or international development specialist. These positions often require strong research, communication, and advocacy skills, and may involve working for NGOs, government agencies, or international organizations.

What are popular job titles related to Human Rights Advocate jobs in Maryland?

For Human Rights Advocate jobs in Maryland, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Human Rights Advocate jobs in Maryland look for?

The top searched job categories for Human Rights Advocate jobs in Maryland are:

Infographic showing various Human Rights Advocate job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,731 per year, or $21 per hour.

Rehabilitation Specialist, Residential

Sheppard Pratt

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$19.31/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.


Sheppard Pratt rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

696th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Residential Rehabilitation Program (RRP) services are designed for individuals with serious mental illness who have difficulty maintaining housing. Our team helps individuals obtain housing, employment, mental health services, and more.

What to expect.

This is a direct care opportunity to provide support for mental health treatment. You will provide a safe and therapeutic environment that encourages the overall independence and well-being of your clients. 

Under general supervision, your responsibilities will include:

  • Acting as a residential counselor as you work one-on-one with clients to learn or regain skills for successful community and independent living and socialization.
  • Ensuring medication compliance which involves responsibility for safety, dosage, and cleanliness.
  • Working as a part of a collaborative service team to develop and implement individual service plans.
  • Providing transportation and attending clients’ medical appointments. You will provide advocacy services throughout the appointment and ensure that all follow-up instruction is documented and/or followed through on.

As you spend time with your clients, you will find yourself developing a rapport with your clients where you become part of their trusted support system. You will see their wins as your wins as they work their way through the program and cheer them on as they progress in their recovery.

** All direct care staff will be thoroughly trained to provide all services and should expect supportive and ever-present mentorship from senior staff members as they perform the requested duties.

What you’ll get from us.

At Sheppard Pratt, you will work alongside a multi-disciplined team led by a bold vision to change lives. We offer:

  • A commitment to professional development, including a comprehensive tuition reimbursement program to support ongoing education and licensure and/or certification preparation
  • Comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits for benefit eligible positions
  • 403b retirement match
  • Generous paid-time-off for benefit eligible positions
  • Complimentary Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Generous mileage reimbursement program

The pay rate for this position is $19.31 hourly. 

What we need from you.

  • Your high school diploma or a GED. Bachelor’s degree in a related field is preferred.  
  • The willingness to obtain additional certifications and trainings as required.
  • A driver’s license with 3-points or less and access to an insured vehicle.
  • Must have availability to workdays, nights, weekends, and holidays depending upon need of the program.

Company Description

Sheppard Pratt is the nation’s largest private, nonprofit provider of mental health, substance use, special education, developmental disability, and social services. We serve over 70,000 people every year and have over 160 programs in 16 counties throughout the State of Maryland. Our mission is to improve the quality of life of individuals and families by compassionately serving their mental health, addiction, special education, and community support needs. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Sheppard Pratt as one of the top psychiatric hospitals in the nation for the past thirty years. ! Sheppard Pratt is committed to fostering a safe, welcoming, and diverse environment for employees and patients, and recently earned the “LGBTQ Health Care Equality Top Performer” designation from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation.

Sheppard Pratt currently has 5,000 employees, and we are always looking to add compassionate and caring members to our team. If you are someone who is interested in behavioral health, psychology, education, nursing, or social work, Sheppard Pratt is the right fit for you.”


What Sheppard Pratt employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Sheppard Pratt logo

About Sheppard Pratt

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sheppard Pratt is the nation's largest private, nonprofit provider of mental health, substance use, special education, developmental disability, and social services. We serve over 70,000 people every year and have over 160 programs in 16 counties throughout the State of Maryland. Our mission is to improve the quality of life of individuals and families by compassionately serving their mental health, addiction, special education, and community support needs. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Sheppard Pratt as one of the top psychiatric hospitals in the nation for the past thirty years. ! Sheppard Pratt is committed to fostering a safe, welcoming, and diverse environment for employees and patients, and recently earned the "LGBTQ Health Care Equality Top Performer" designation from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. Sheppard Pratt currently has 5,000 employees, and we are always looking to add compassionate and caring members to our team. If you are someone who is interested in behavioral health, psychology, education, nursing, or social work, Sheppard Pratt is the right fit for you."

Industry

Offices of mental health practitioners

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Baltimore, MD, US

Year founded

1853