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

Insights Director

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$125K - $135K/yr

... and inclusion, human rights, equality, and civility for every individual. Ipsos is An Equal ... research companies and currently the only one primarily managed by researchers, ranking as a #1 ...

Insights Director

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$125K - $135K/yr

... and inclusion, human rights, equality, and civility for every individual. Ipsos is An Equal ... research companies and currently the only one primarily managed by researchers, ranking as a #1 ...

Showing results 21-40

Human Rights Researcher information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$116.5K

$169.5K

How much do human rights researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for human rights researcher in Chicago, IL is $116,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $158,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a human rights researcher?

A Human Rights Researcher investigates, analyzes, and reports on human rights issues, violations, and policies. They gather data from various sources, conduct interviews, and compile findings into reports or policy recommendations. Their work supports advocacy efforts, informs legal and governmental actions, and raises awareness about human rights concerns. Researchers may work for NGOs, international organizations, think tanks, or governmental agencies. Their role is essential in promoting justice, accountability, and policy reform.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a human rights researcher?

To thrive as a Human Rights Researcher, you need a solid background in international law, social sciences, and research methodologies, often supported by at least a bachelor's or master’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software, qualitative and quantitative research tools, and databases such as LexisNexis or Westlaw is highly advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective written and verbal communication skills set standout candidates apart. These skills are crucial for producing credible research, influencing policy, and advocating effectively for human rights issues.

What does a human rights researcher do?

Human Rights Researchers often work on projects such as drafting country or situation-specific reports, conducting field and desk research, analyzing government policies or legal documents, and collecting first-hand accounts from affected populations. Daily tasks may involve collaborating with advocacy teams, contributing to grant proposals, and synthesizing large volumes of data into accessible findings for policymakers and public audiences. Researchers frequently coordinate with international organizations or local partners to ensure the accuracy and impact of their work. This role offers variety and the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to social justice, often within a team-oriented and mission-driven environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Human Rights Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Human Rights Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Human Rights Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Human Rights Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Human Rights Researcher job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $116,511 per year, or $56 per hour.

Commission on Human Relations- PUBLIC SERVICE LEGAL INTERN: Unpaid

City of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Other

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

City of Chicago
Brandon Johnson, Mayor
Commission on Human Relations
Kenneth Gunn, Commissioner
NOTICE OF JOB OPPORTUNITY
PUBLIC SERVICE LEGAL INTERN
(Fall 2026)
Commission on Human Relations
Adjudication Division
UNPAID - TC 0407
The Commission on Human Relations (CCHR) serves as the civil rights agency
for the City of Chicago. The CCHR investigates and adjudicates discrimination
complaints; mediates community tensions; provides human relations
workshops; and assists victims of hate crimes.
The CCHR is seeking to retain a legal intern to work in its Adjudication Division
which is responsible for the investigation and adjudication of employment,
housing, public accommodations, credit, and bonding discrimination complaints.
DUTIES
* The selected candidate will meet regularly with the management staff of
the Adjudication Division to learn how to prepare legal summaries of
CCHR precedential decisions for publication in the CCHR's Subject
Matter Index and the Board Rulings Digest, assist with updating these
materials, and assist with tracking and reporting discrimination data.
* Under the direction of the Deputy Commissioner, the intern will also
perform some legal research and writing assignments.
* The intern may also be required to assist the Office of the Chair in
conducting research on proposed or pending legislation and draft
recommendations to the mayor.
* Performs additional duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Must be a current second- or third-year law
school student in good academic standing and enrolled in an accredited law
school.
NOTE: At the time of application, you must attach a copy of your transcripts,
resume, and writing sample for your application to be considered complete.
The writing sample must be five to seven pages in length, and must
demonstrate your legal research, writing, and analytical skills. If the sample is
part of a larger document, please include a brief explanation of the document.
Also include whether the sample was submitted for a class or for a journal
article.
SUMMARY OF NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
* Demonstrated experience conducting legal research and writing
assignments
* Experience using legal research platforms including Westlaw or
LexisNexis
* Demonstrated problem solving and critical thinking skills
* High level of organization and attention to detail
* Intermediate skills in Microsoft Excel
* Ability to work collaboratively and cooperatively with staff
* Ability to organize, prioritize, and carry out office work with minimal
supervision
PREFERENCE: Someone who demonstrates strong communication,
organizational, critical thinking, research and writing skills. Must be willing to
work with diverse communities. Must be familiar with MS Office products.
NOTE: Current transcripts, resume, writing sample, and current letter of
enrollment verification from the school's registrar/dean confirming current
enrollment and grade level and will be required at the time of application.
RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: City of Chicago residency is not required.
SALARY: Non-paid; may be used to satisfy academic credit requirements.
CLOSING DATE: 30 days.
INSTRUCTIONS: Interested applicants should forward resumes, cover letters,
writing samples, current enrollment verification letter and current transcripts to:
The Commission on Human Relations
Gloria Vu
Gloria.Vu@cityofchicago.org
Fax:
312-744-1081
If you are a person with a disability and require reasonable
accommodation in order to participate in the application process, please
contact the City of Chicago, Department of Human Resources at 312-744-
4976 (voice) or 312 744-5035 (TTY). You may be required to provide
information to support your reasonable accommodation request.
ALL REFERENCES TO POLITICAL SPONSORSHIP OR
RECOMMENDATION MUST BE OMITTED FROM ANY AND ALL
APPLICATION MATERIALS SUBMITTED FOR CITY EMPLOYMENT
THE CITY OF CHICAGO IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE
ACTION EMPLOYER