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Human Rights Internship Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

U.S Comm for Refuge

Communications Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Monitor news coverage and social media trends related to refugees, immigrants, and human rights. * Interns will be supported by Communications staff in producing, at minimum, the following examples ...

Massanutten

College Internship Program Inquiries

VA · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

They were hosted in roles at our front desk, rec centers, Waterpark, ski slopes, human resources ... For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

U.S Comm for Refuge

Law Student Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site

... person internship at the Arlington, VA Headquarters, ideally 12-24/hr week . * Ability to commit for a Fall, Spring, or Summer term. * Dedication to human rights of refugees, immigrants, asylum ...

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Human Rights Internship information

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How much do human rights internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for human rights internship in Virginia is $16.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $18.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Human Rights Internship vs Human Rights Associate?

AspectHuman Rights InternshipHuman Rights Associate
Required CredentialsTypically students or recent graduates, some internships may require coursework in human rights or related fieldsBachelor's degree often required; some roles prefer or require additional certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentTemporary, entry-level, often in NGOs, international organizations, or advocacy groupsFull-time, professional setting with more responsibilities, often in similar organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by NGOs, UN agencies, and advocacy groups for training and developmentUsed by organizations for ongoing projects, policy work, and advocacy efforts

In summary, a Human Rights Internship is an entry-level, temporary position ideal for students or recent graduates gaining initial experience. A Human Rights Associate is a more permanent, professional role requiring some experience or education, with greater responsibilities in human rights work.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during a Human Rights Internship?

As a Human Rights Intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of projects such as conducting research on human rights issues, drafting reports or policy briefs, assisting with advocacy campaigns, and supporting event planning or outreach efforts. Interns often work closely with experienced staff and may also help monitor developments in human rights law or policy. This role typically involves collaboration with team members from diverse backgrounds, offering opportunities to learn about legal, social, and international perspectives. Interns gain valuable experience in both independent work and group projects, helping to develop critical thinking and communication skills.

What is a Human Rights Internship?

A Human Rights Internship is a temporary position, often aimed at students or recent graduates, that provides hands-on experience in organizations focused on promoting and protecting human rights. Interns may assist with research, advocacy, event planning, or communications related to issues such as social justice, legal rights, or humanitarian efforts. These internships help individuals gain practical skills, build professional networks, and deepen their understanding of human rights work. They can take place at non-governmental organizations (NGOs), government agencies, or international bodies. Most positions are unpaid or offer modest stipends, but they are valuable stepping stones for careers in law, public policy, or international relations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Human Rights Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Human Rights Intern, you need foundational knowledge of international human rights laws, research skills, and often enrollment in or completion of a related degree such as political science or international relations. Familiarity with research databases, Microsoft Office Suite, and sometimes data analysis or case management systems is beneficial. Strong communication, cultural sensitivity, and organizational skills help you collaborate effectively and advocate for vulnerable populations. These capabilities are crucial for contributing to impactful projects, supporting advocacy efforts, and navigating complex global human rights issues.
What are the most commonly searched types of Human Rights jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Human Rights jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Human Rights Internship jobs in Virginia? For Human Rights Internship jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Human Rights Internship jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Human Rights Internship jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Human Rights Internship jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Human Rights Internship job openings:
Human Rights Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Human Rights Internship job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,691 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Communications Intern

U.S Comm for Refuge

Arlington, VA • On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI), is a non-governmental, not-for-profit international organization with a mission to protect the rights and address the needs of persons in migration by advancing fair and humane public policy, facilitating and providing direct professional services, and promoting the full participation of migrants in community life. For over 115 years, we have shaped history with the belief that immigrants strengthen our communities, economy and social fabric through freedom, hard work, and family unity. To learn more about our work, please visit our official website at www.refugees.org.

OVERVIEW OF TEAM

USCRI’s Communications team, all based in Arlington, VA, supports USCRI’s mission by leading the organization’s strategic communications, email marketing, media engagement, and public education efforts. Through storytelling, media outreach, digital campaigns, and strategic messaging, the team works to shape public understanding, elevate refugee and immigrant voices, and drive lasting change locally, nationally, and globally. The Communications team works closely with programmatic, international, and policy and advocacy staff to achieve this mission.

This position can be fully in-person, designed as a hybrid internship with partial in-person work in Arlington, Virginia, or we also welcome applications from candidates seeking a fully virtual internship. Part-time and full-time options are available. This position does not entail providing or assisting with direct client services.

POSITION

The USCRI Communications Intern will support the Communications team in advancing USCRI's online storytelling, media engagement, digital communications, and public education efforts. Interns will have the opportunity to contribute to a variety of projects, including developing content for social media, blogs, newsletters, and press materials; identifying and elevating compelling stories from USCRI's field offices and international programs; supporting media outreach and monitoring; assisting with the creation of print and digital communications materials; and brainstorming new ways to engage audiences through multimedia storytelling and campaigns.


While the position is unpaid, USCRI and supervisor(s) will provide support if any intern pursues academic credit.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with positions filled as qualified candidates are identified. Opportunities are available for immediate start, and internships are offered year-round during the Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer academic terms.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Assist Communications staff in developing and implementing digital, media, and storytelling initiatives that support USCRI’s mission.
  • Draft and edit content for press releases, newsletters, social media, blog posts, and website updates.
  • Support the creation of visual and multimedia content, such as graphics or videos, to accompany digital campaigns.
  • Monitor news coverage and social media trends related to refugees, immigrants, and human rights.
  • Interns will be supported by Communications staff in producing, at minimum, the following examples of written or digital work:
    • One short-form story, blog, or social media series highlighting a refugee, immigrant, or USCRI program; and
    • One longer-form written or multimedia piece contributing to a campaign or publication.
  • Participate in Communications team meetings and cross-department collaborations, including with Policy & Advocacy and Program teams, on public education and advocacy strategies.

Other job-related duties may be assigned as agreed upon by the intern and supervisor(s).

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

  • Currently enrolled in OR recently graduated from an undergraduate or graduate program.
  • Experience or coursework in communications, journalism, marketing, public relations, digital media, or a related field preferred.
  • Strong writing and editing skills, with the ability to tailor messages for diverse audiences and platforms.
  • Experience with social media management, graphic design, photography, video editing, or other multimedia content creation tools is preferred.
  • Ability to work collaboratively on new and evolving projects.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Word, Excel, SharePoint); familiarity with Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar tools preferred.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with colleagues from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds.
  • Dedication to uplifting the voices of refugees, asylees, and immigrant communities.
  • Demonstrated sensitivity, empathy, and cultural awareness in working with displaced or marginalized populations. Dedication to advocating for human rights, an interest in policies affecting refugees, immigrants, asylum seekers, and displaced people.
  • Ability to establish and maintain professional relationships with staff and collaborators of diverse backgrounds.

ADDITIONAL SKILLS (NOT REQUIRED)

  • Demonstrated interest in social services, human rights, international studies, global health, or displacement studies;
  • Internationally based work or courses of study; and
  • Proficiency in additional languages.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • Ability to type, read, and listen or to adaptive typing, reading, and listening programs.
  • Use of repetitive motion, prolonged periods of sitting and standing, and sustained visual and mental applications and demands.
  • Occasional lifting (up to 25 pounds), bending, pulling, and carrying.

Don’t meet every requirement above? We believe that all people are capable of great things, and we are dedicated to maintaining an inclusive work environment. Because of this, we encourage you to apply even if you do not meet all the requirements that are listed within this job description.

TO APPLY:

Candidates must submit both a resume and cover letter to be considered. In their application materials, candidates should highlight their experience or demonstrated interest in refugee protection, forced displacement, or related humanitarian issues. Finalists selected for an interview should be prepared to provide a brief writing sample (1–2 pages), an unofficial transcript, and two professional references.


EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants is an equal opportunity employer. We maintain a policy of equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, domestic partnership status, marital status, physical or mental disability, AIDS/HIV status, age, political affiliation, genetic information, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.