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Human Rights Internship information

See Boston, MA salary details

$9

$18

$25

How much do human rights internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for human rights internship in Boston, MA is $18.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $20.91 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 Boston, MA? The most popular types of Human Rights jobs in Boston, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Human Rights Internship jobs in Boston, MA? For Human Rights Internship jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Human Rights Internship jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Human Rights Internship jobs in Boston, MA are:
Human Rights Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Human Rights Internship job openings in Boston, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Internship, and 60% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,105 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
Developmental Specialist (Day Habilitation)

Developmental Specialist (Day Habilitation)

Vinfen

Weymouth, MA • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Vinfen rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
As a Developmental Specialist, you will provide case management, treatment planning, and direct support for persons served including advocacy, family contact, and all related documentation. Provides supervision, training, leadership, and
assistance to Program Instructors, interns, relief staff, and volunteers. Assists in the daily implementation of Day Habilitation Support Plans (DHSPs) recommended schedules and plans. Follows Policies & Procedures as outlined by Vinfen in supporting MassHealth regulations, CARF standards, and where applicable DDS regulations.
Responsibilities
The essential job duties/responsibilities of the position include but are not limited to the information listed
below:
  • Supervises the activities of the Program Instructors, interns, volunteers, and relief staff. Provides training, coaching, mentoring, and staff development activities, as needed. Directs observation and clinical interaction with Instructors during program hours.
  • Participates in the development of persons served DHSPs, Safety Assessment, and other assessments. Includes recommendations from Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy, and other professional/para-professional staff. Manages a caseload of individuals served.
  • Implements, monitors, and evaluates the effectiveness of prescribed clinical, adaptive skills, communication, and other programs. Provides recommendations or implements changes to ensure continuous improvement of skills.
  • Advocates for needs of persons served in all areas. Promotes self-expression, self-reliance, and creativity for all persons served. Assures the preservation of human rights for persons served. Acts as positive role model to Program Instructors and persons served.
  • Prepares for and attends consultation meetings with clinical staff, including Occupational Therapist, Speech Therapist, Physical Therapist, Assistant Clinical Director, and other paraprofessionals.
  • Works directly with persons served individually and in groups. Assists with personal care and activities of daily living. Works to promote independence in everyday life.
  • Assesses functional skills of persons served and identifies appropriate therapeutic interventions with assistance from professional and paraprofessional staff.
  • With approval from the person served, maintains contact with family members and residential staff members.
  • Provides training and development of age-appropriate activities and groups. Recommends and participates in the development of activities with a greater range of choices.
  • Responsible for documenting specific data, transfers to daily chart, and performs monthly progress reviews of data. Collects and provides data as determined by individual DHSP objectives and as otherwise specified by management.
  • Maintains physical upkeep of the program area. Has knowledge of supplies and equipment and recommends ordering when needed. Ensures equipment used is cleaned, stored appropriately, and is in good repair and safe condition. Ensures individuals served are trained in equipment before use at the service location and other work locations.
  • Acts as advocate for individuals in all areas.
  • Completes continuous training in applied behavioral analysis and teaching techniques. Completes successful in-service training on Positive Behavior Support modules.
  • Responsible for the completion of 6-month review progress summaries and annual assessments according to specified due dates.
  • Supervises and organizes individual and group activities.
  • Communicates consistently with management regarding treatment and skill development programs for individuals. Participates and is actively involved with DHSP team.
  • Ensures individuals are actively engaged in meaningful age-appropriate activities and groups throughout the day with a focus on skill building, communication, and self-reliance.
  • Trains, mentors, and supports the activities of the staff. Provides information for feedback tools and provides feedback for annual performance evaluations.
  • Notifies Management staff of any emergencies.
  • If assigned, functions as the Human Rights Officer and Fire Safety Officer.
  • Maintains updated resume on file at Day Hab location.
  • Performs other related duties, as required.

Knowledge and Skills:
  • Knowledge of human, civil, and legal rights
  • Knowledge of empowerment and use of self-advocacy techniques
  • Knowledge of applied behavioral analysis with developmental disabilities population
  • Knowledge and use of different communication styles
  • Knowledge of advocacy techniques
  • Knowledge of formal and informal assessment practices
  • Knowledge of participatory planning techniques
  • Knowledge of required independent living management skills
  • Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques
  • Knowledge of available community resources, job, and training opportunities
  • Knowledge of documentation requirements
  • Sensitivity to cultural, religious, racial, disability, and gender issues
  • Persuasive, collaborative, and participative skills
  • Presentation skills
  • Ability to create strategies for persons served
  • Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team
  • Ability to provide a positive role model
  • Ability to balance competing priorities
  • Ability to work in a professional and confidential capacity

About Vinfen
Established in 1977, Vinfen is a nonprofit, health and human services organization and a leading provider of community-based services to individuals with mental health conditions, intellectual and developmental disabilities, brain injuries, and behavioral health challenges. Our services and advocacy promote the recovery, resiliency, habilitation, and self-determination of the people we serve. Vinfen's 3,500 dedicated employees are experienced, highly-trained professionals who provide a full range of supportive living, health, educational, and clinical services in over 550 sites throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut. For more information about Vinfen, please visit www.vinfen.org/careers.
My Job. My Community. My Vinfen.
Vinfen is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
Qualifications
High School diploma or GED required. A bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, or related field preferred, but experience may substitute for education.
1-2 years of related experience.
Driving Requirements:
Driving is a requirement for this position using either a Vinfen van or personal vehicle. If using a personal vehicle, you must possess and maintain adequate insurance as well as maintain a safe driving record which is subject to annual checks. A valid driver's license must be presented at the time of employment. Incumbents must be at least 21 years of age, have maintained a valid US driver's license for at least six months, and must be able to pass a driver's screening background check.
Physical Effort:
Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, climb as this is a very physically active position.
Must be able to lift at least 25 pounds using proper lifting techniques or the use of a two-person lift.
Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment such as a calculator, copier, and printer.
Ability to sit, reach, climb stairs, and maneuver through narrow spaces or hallways.
Ability to assist persons served with activities of daily living. Ability to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time as needed.
Ability to bend, reach, file, sit, stand, and move around the facility.
Ability to speak, hear, and communicate with persons served, staff, and external representatives.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
Ability to assist in routine living activities including cleaning, meal preparation, vacuuming, shoveling, and grocery shopping.
Required Certifications:
CPR required within two weeks of hire
First Aid required within two weeks of hire
Safety Care required within 90 days of hire
NET required
Pay Range
USD $24.00 - USD $24.00 /Hr.

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