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Human Rights Investigator Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Agency Attorneys, Level Two, work within the Law Enforcement Bureau to enforce the New York City Human Rights Law through pre-complaint interventions, investigations, mediations, settlements, and ...

Agency Attorney 2

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Agency Attorneys, Level Two, work within the Law Enforcement Bureau to enforce the New York City Human Rights Law through pre-complaint interventions, investigations, mediations, settlements, and ...

Agency Attorneys, Level Two, work within the Law Enforcement Bureau to enforce the New York City Human Rights Law through pre-complaint interventions, investigations, mediations, settlements, and ...

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Human Rights Investigator information

See New York salary details

$38.3K

$61.3K

$110.5K

How much do human rights investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for human rights investigator in New York is $61,328.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,900.00 and $51,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a human rights investigator?

A Human Rights Investigator is responsible for examining allegations of human rights abuses, gathering evidence, and documenting findings to ensure accountability and justice. They conduct interviews, review documents, and collaborate with legal experts and advocacy organizations. Their work may involve reporting to international bodies, government agencies, or NGOs to push for policy changes and legal action. Investigators often work in challenging environments, requiring strong analytical, communication, and ethical decision-making skills.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a human rights investigator?

A Human Rights Investigator requires expertise in research, evidence collection, and international human rights law, generally supported by a relevant degree or field experience. Familiarity with investigative software, data analysis tools, secure communications platforms, and sometimes certifications from recognized human rights organizations is often important. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and resilience set exceptional candidates apart, as does attention to detail. Mastery of these skills ensures investigations are thorough, unbiased, and conducted ethically, ultimately supporting accountability and justice.

What are some common challenges faced by human rights investigators in the field?

Human Rights Investigators often work in unpredictable and sensitive environments, which can present challenges such as gathering reliable information in conflict zones, building trust with vulnerable populations, and maintaining personal safety. They must also navigate complex legal, political, and cultural issues while adhering to strict ethical standards. Teamwork and collaboration with legal experts, local partners, and advocacy groups are essential for successful outcomes. Staying adaptable and persistent is crucial to overcoming obstacles and ensuring accurate, impactful investigations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Human Rights Investigator jobs in New York?

The most popular types of Human Rights Investigator jobs in New York are:

What are popular job titles related to Human Rights Investigator jobs in New York?

For Human Rights Investigator jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in New York are hiring for Human Rights Investigator jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Human Rights Investigator job openings:

Infographic showing various Human Rights Investigator job openings in New York 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 $61,328 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Investigator (Human Rights Specialist 1) (NY HELPS)

New York State

Bronx, NY • On-site

$70K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 50 rated states


Job description

Duties Description As a Human Rights Specialist 1, incumbent would perform a variety of field and office activities involved in carrying out anti-discrimination programs and promoting good community inter-group relationships designed to eliminate tension, conflict and hostility between various social, racial, ethnic and religious groups. Incumbent would be responsible for informing complainants, respondents and witnesses of their rights and responsibilities under the New York State Human Rights Law. Prior to a possible determination of a human rights violation, you would attempt to help parties reach an acceptable resolution.

Incumbent would be responsible for developing an investigation plan, conducting investigations, preparing investigative reports and making recommendations on final determinations. Incumbent would work with advisory council, local human relations agencies and other groups in providing technical assistance or training on the Human Rights Law, as well as make speeches to community groups and organizations, and conduct workshops to foster positive community relationships. Minimum Qualifications *This title is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS).

Six years of experience in field investigation or law enforcement investigation and the preparation of detailed narrative reports; OR planning, developing, implementing, or enforcing a human rights, civil rights or housing and community development program, OR conducting discrimination or labor relations investigations, OR litigation, OR any combination of the above experience to equal seven years. Substitution: an associate degree may substitute for two years of specialized experience; bachelor's degree may substitute for four years of specialized experience; master's degree may substitute for five years of specialized experience; J.D. may substitute for six years of specialized experience; Ph.D

may substitute for seven years of specialized experience. For the duration of the NY HELPS Program, this title may be filled via a non-competitive appointment, which means no examination is required but all candidates must meet the minimum qualifications of the title for which they apply. At a future date, it is expected employees hired under NY HELPS will have their non-competitive employment status converted to competitive status, without having to compete in an examination.

Employees will then be afforded with all of the same rights and privileges of competitive class employees of New York State. While serving permanently in an NY HELPS title, employees may take part in any promotion examination for which they are qualified. Additional Comments The New York State Division of Human Rights is a nation-leading civil rights enforcement agency tasked with combating hate, bias, and discrimination through the enforcement of the New York State Human Rights Law-one of the most expansive state-level civil rights laws anywhere in the country.

The Division is committed to creating an environment where employees and the New Yorkers we serve feel they belong, and the Division knows diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility are foundational to every aspect of civil rights work. The Division is an equal opportunity employer and recognizes that diversity in the workforce is critical. The Division encourages people living with disabilities and applicants from all communities to apply.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including: Holiday & Paid Time Off Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Pension from New York State Employees' Retirement System Affordable Health Care options Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost NYS Deferred Compensation plan Access to NY 529 College Savings Program Please note that specific benefits and programs may vary based on negotiating unit, current contract, and length of State service. This position is eligible for additional $4000 location pay. Salaries are non-negotiable.

Candidates with no previous state service will begin at the starting rate of the posted salary range. Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


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