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Human Rights Officer Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$32K - $38K/yr

... in human rights. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Nonprofit Operations * Prepare comprehensive briefing materials for the CEO, including meeting schedules, stakeholder profiles, travel ...

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Human Rights Officer Salary information

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$23.5K

$75.9K

$182.5K

How much do human rights officer salary jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for human rights officer salary in the United States is $75,929.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Human Rights Officer Salary vs Human Rights Advocate Salary?

AspectHuman Rights Officer SalaryHuman Rights Advocate Salary
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in law, social sciences, or related field; often some experience in human rights workSimilar educational background; often volunteers or activists with relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, NGOs, international organizationsNonprofits, advocacy groups, community organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in formal roles with defined responsibilitiesUsed for grassroots or volunteer roles, less formal

The main difference between Human Rights Officer and Human Rights Advocate salaries lies in the formalization of roles and responsibilities. Human Rights Officers typically hold more structured positions within organizations, often requiring specific credentials and offering higher salaries. Advocates may work in less formal settings, often as volunteers or part-time, which can influence salary levels. Understanding these differences helps job seekers align their expectations and career paths in the human rights field.

How much do human rights officers get paid?

Human rights officers typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and organization. Salaries can vary widely, with entry-level positions starting lower and experienced officers or those in senior roles earning higher compensation, often supplemented by benefits and allowances.

What degree do you need to be a human rights officer?

A human rights officer typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in fields such as human rights, international relations, law, political science, or social sciences. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or relevant experience, along with strong research, communication, and advocacy skills.

What does a human rights officer do?

A human rights officer investigates and addresses violations of human rights, advocates for affected individuals or groups, and promotes compliance with international standards. They often work for government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations, utilizing research, reporting, and communication skills to support human rights initiatives.
More about Human Rights Officer Salary jobs

What cities are hiring for Human Rights Officer Salary jobs?

Cities with the most Human Rights Officer Salary job openings:

What states have the most Human Rights Officer Salary jobs?

States with the most job openings for Human Rights Officer Salary jobs include:

Infographic showing various Human Rights Officer Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,929 per year, or $36.5 per hour.

Chief Investigator (Human Rights Specialist 3)

New York State

Buffalo, NY

$96K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 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 Reporting directly to the Assistant Commissioner, the Human Rights Specialist 3 will serve as the Chief Investigator, directing and planning anti-discrimination investigations. Duties include, but are not limited to: Develops and implements investigation of individual claims of discrimination or suspected systematic forms of discrimination. Identifies any research, witnesses, or documentary evidence needed.

Sets deadlines to secure and evaluate evidence and complete the investigation. Oversees the development of investigative reports, and ensures quality, completeness, and accuracy in such reports. Reviews complex case files and issues a determination based on the findings of the investigation as to whether probable cause exists to believe that unlawful discrimination has occurred.

Develops and conducts outreach efforts to relevant communities and/or constituency groups to educate such communities and groups on the New York State Human Rights Law and the Division; ensures that operations and staff are in full compliance with all laws, policies, procedures, and standards, including requirements for the Division's Case Management System. Responsible for the hiring of new investigators. Performs the full range of supervisory duties, including performance evaluations, employee selection, and time and attendance.

Develops and delivers training programs for current and new investigators. Minimum Qualifications Non-Competitive Qualifications: Eight years of experience* in any combination of the following areas: field investigation or law enforcement investigation and the preparation of detailed narrative reports; planning, developing, implementing or enforcing a human rights, civil rights or housing and community development program; conducting discrimination or labor relations investigations; or litigation. 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. Transfer Qualifications: Current New York State employee with one year or more permanent, contingent-permanent or 55b/c service as a Human Rights Specialist 3 and are interested in reassignment

Preferred Qualifications: 2 - 5 years supervising and supporting a mid-sized staff. Previous experience working for a government agency, whether City, State, or Federal, in particular, United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, EEOC and local human rights commissions. Connections to the Fair Housing community in New York State.

Intersectional and trauma informed approach to working with constituents. Demonstrated commitment to public service. Advanced degree in either law, writing, or a related field preferred.

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. 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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