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Human Rights Advocate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Civil Rights Attorney - AI Trainer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site +1

$90 - $100/hr

International: human rights treaties, EU directives), and produce reference legal briefs, regulatory comments, and advocacy memoranda. * Author rubrics that distinguish authentic public interest ...

Care Advocate Nurse

Downers Grove, IL ยท On-site

$61K - $98K/yr

Our continual investment in human capital and technology enable us to deliver the most innovative ... For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Previous experience addressing sexual/gender-based violence, human rights, and working with diverse ... Ability to advocate objectively for the rights of others. * Strong interpersonal skills with a ...

Case Manager

New Lenox, IL ยท On-site

$20.25 - $26.25/hr

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 ...

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Human Rights Advocate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$22

$33

How much do human rights advocate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for human rights advocate in Chicago, IL is $22.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $26.54 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 Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Human Rights Advocate jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Human Rights Advocate jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Human Rights Advocate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,453 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Civil Rights Attorney - AI Trainer

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site, Remote

$90 - $100/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

About the job

Mercor connects elite creative and technical talent with leading AI research labs. Headquartered in San Francisco, our investors include Benchmark, General Catalyst, Peter Thiel, Adam D'Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey.

Position: Public Interest Law (Civil Law / Environmental Law)
Type: Contract
Compensation: $90–$100/hour
Location: Remote

Role Responsibilities

  • Construct scenarios spanning civil rights litigation, environmental compliance and enforcement, and community advocacy or policy reform processes.
  • Build tasks across civil rights and constitutional law, environmental law and regulation, housing and consumer protection, immigration and asylum, and government accountability.
  • Develop scenarios involving tools such as legal research platforms, case management systems used by legal aid organizations and nonprofits, and regulatory filing systems (e.g., EPA dockets).
  • Apply public interest law methodologies (constitutional analysis, regulatory compliance review, impact litigation strategy) to the standards track a world targets (US: federal civil rights statutes, NEPA, environmental statutes; International: human rights treaties, EU directives), and produce reference legal briefs, regulatory comments, and advocacy memoranda.
  • Author rubrics that distinguish authentic public interest legal judgment from generic law school or bar exam-level recall.

Qualifications

Must-Have

  • 5+ years working as a public interest attorney at a legal aid organization, advocacy nonprofit, or government agency (ACLU, Earthjustice, NRDC, Legal Aid Society, or a state attorney general's office).
  • Direct ownership of impact litigation, regulatory advocacy, or policy reform initiatives.
  • Fluency in public interest legal tooling, plus understanding of how regulatory processes and legislative advocacy actually work.
  • A recognized professional credential is strongly preferred (JD with bar admission, or an international equivalent); prior rubric, training, or policy authorship is a plus.

Application Process (Takes 20–30 mins to complete)

  • Upload resume
  • AI interview based on your resume
  • Submit form

Resources & Support

  • For details about the interview process and platform information, please check: https://talent.docs.mercor.com/welcome
  • For any help or support, reach out to: support@mercor.com

PS: Our team reviews applications daily. Please complete your AI interview and application steps to be considered for this opportunity.


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