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Human Rights Advocate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Colonial Behavioral Health

Human rights advocate for individuals served. Other duties as assigned. Work Schedule Work Schedule Monday through Friday from 8:00am - 5:00pm; Evening & Weekend hours may be required based on ...

U.S Comm for Refuge

Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

The successful candidate must be committed to immigration and human rights issues and be able to conduct advocacy, education, and other outreach activities. Subject to overall organizational needs ...

Richmond Residential Serv

Team Case Manager

Henrico, VA · On-site

$21/hr

... advocates for clients in accordance with RRSI Code of Ethics and all applicable DBHDS and Human Rights regulations. 8. Assists assigned Program Supervisor/Director with maintaining compliance for all ...

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All JobsHuman Rights Advocate JobsHuman Rights Advocate Jobs in Virginia

Human Rights Advocate information

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$10

$21

$31

How much do human rights advocate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for human rights advocate in Virginia is $21.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a human rights advocate do?

A human rights advocate works to promote and protect fundamental rights and freedoms for individuals and groups. They may conduct research, raise awareness, lobby policymakers, and support victims of human rights violations, often working with NGOs or government agencies. Strong communication, research skills, and knowledge of international laws are essential in this role.

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 human rights advocates?

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 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 the field and staying informed about global human rights 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.

How much do Human Rights Activists get paid?

Human rights activists' salaries vary widely depending on their employer, location, experience, and whether they work for NGOs, government agencies, or international organizations. Entry-level positions may start around $30,000 to $50,000 annually, while experienced advocates can earn over $70,000 or more. Many roles also include benefits such as travel opportunities and the need for strong research and communication skills.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

A Human Rights Advocate typically does not earn $10,000 a month without specialized experience or advanced education. High-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree often include sales, real estate, entrepreneurship, or skilled trades, which rely on skills, certifications, or performance rather than formal education. Success in these fields depends on experience, networking, and market demand.
What are popular job titles related to Human Rights Advocate jobs in Virginia? For Human Rights Advocate jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Human Rights Advocate jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Human Rights Advocate jobs in Virginia are:
Human Rights Advocate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Human Rights Advocate job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,671 per year, or $21.5 per hour.
Quality Compliance Specialist

Quality Compliance Specialist

Colonial Behavioral Health

On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Description Colonial Behavioral Health provides opportunities for recovery to individuals and their family members in the areas of mental illness, substance use disorder, and developmental disabilities. Colonial Behavioral Health serves the citizens of James City County, City of Poquoson, City of Williamsburg, and York County. We are currently recruiting for a Quality Compliance Specialist position within our Quality & Compliance Department.

This position is responsible for working towards maintaining organizational compliance with all internal and external regulatory and auditing requirements. Job Duties Job Responsibilities Assist with performance improvement initiatives including data integrity, fraud prevention, create efficiencies, research and analyze data for quality purposes; Identify and monitor trends in compliance and documentation, quality indicators/measures. Assist in the monitoring of performance measures to ensure that targets for access, productivity and service delivery standards are met; produce reports and presentations that detail findings of performance measures.

Responsible for conducting interviews and root cause analysis. Human rights advocate for individuals served. Other duties as assigned.

Work Schedule Work Schedule Monday through Friday from 8:00am - 5:00pm; Evening & Weekend hours may be required based on department needs. Qualifications (EEO) Skills and Qualifications Knowledge and ability to understand policies related to the operation of programs and services for SMI and co-occurring substance use disorders. Possess the ability to prioritize, take initiative, use time management, and perform in a consistent manner.

Must possess the ability to learn, apply quality tools and techniques in behavioral health environment, and analyze information; Two years of work experience with individuals with serious mental illness and/or substance use disorder preferred. Valid driver's license is required. High school diploma or equivalent required.

Associate Degree in a human services field required, Bachelor's Degree in a human services field. preferred. DMV record must be submitted with application.

. Our compensation package includes: Competitive compensation Virginia Retirement System Health, Dental, Vision, & Life Insurance Health Savings Account/Flexible Spending Accounts Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) employer Colonial Behavioral Health is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

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