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Human Rights Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Role Overview: As a Civil Rights Specialist, you will review each case assigned, applying ... Law, Sociology, Psychology, Labor Relations, Public Administration, Human Resources and Business ...

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Human Rights Specialist information

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$34.5K

$73.9K

$117.5K

How much do human rights specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for human rights specialist in the United States is $73,918.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a human rights specialist?

To become a human rights specialist, typically a bachelor's degree in fields like international relations, law, or social sciences is required, often followed by a master's degree for advanced roles. Gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or working with NGOs, along with developing skills in research, advocacy, and understanding international laws, is also important.

What are some common challenges faced by Human Rights Specialists when advocating for change within organizations or communities?

Human Rights Specialists often encounter challenges such as resistance to change, navigating complex legal frameworks, and balancing cultural sensitivities with universal rights standards. They may need to address skepticism or pushback from stakeholders who are unfamiliar with human rights principles or fear potential disruptions. Effective communication, diplomacy, and building strong coalitions are essential to overcoming these challenges and driving meaningful progress within organizations or communities.

What jobs can I get with a human rights degree?

A human rights degree prepares individuals for roles such as human rights officer, advocacy coordinator, policy analyst, or international development worker. These positions often require strong research, communication skills, and knowledge of international laws and organizations, with opportunities in NGOs, government agencies, and international bodies.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Human Rights Specialists typically require a degree in a related field; however, high-paying jobs that can reach $4,000 weekly without a degree include roles such as sales managers, real estate brokers, or certain skilled trades like electricians or commercial pilots. These positions often rely on experience, certifications, or licenses rather than formal education alone.

What does a human rights specialist do?

A human rights specialist researches, advocates for, and promotes the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms. They often analyze policies, investigate violations, and collaborate with organizations to ensure compliance with international standards, requiring strong communication and analytical skills. The role may involve fieldwork, report writing, and policy development to support marginalized communities.

What is the difference between Human Rights Specialist vs Human Rights Advocate?

AspectHuman Rights SpecialistHuman Rights Advocate
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in law, social sciences, or related field; often certifications in human rights or advocacyTypically similar credentials; may include certifications in advocacy or public policy
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, NGOs, international organizations, research institutionsNGOs, community groups, public campaigns, legal organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in formal roles focusing on policy analysis, research, and complianceUsed in activism, public awareness campaigns, and grassroots efforts

While both roles focus on promoting human rights, a Human Rights Specialist often works in research, policy, and compliance within organizations, whereas a Human Rights Advocate is more involved in activism, public campaigns, and community outreach. Both require similar educational backgrounds but differ in their approach and work environment.

What are Human Rights Specialists?

Human Rights Specialists are professionals who work to promote and protect human rights at local, national, or international levels. They conduct research, analyze policies, monitor compliance with human rights laws, and advocate for individuals or groups whose rights may be at risk. Their work often includes collaborating with governments, NGOs, and other organizations to raise awareness and ensure the enforcement of human rights standards. These specialists may also provide training, write reports, and help develop strategies to prevent human rights violations.

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

To thrive as a Human Rights Specialist, you need a strong background in international law, policy analysis, and human rights frameworks, typically supported by a relevant degree such as in law, political science, or international relations. Familiarity with research databases, case management software, and often fluency in multiple languages are important technical assets. Exceptional communication, cultural sensitivity, and advocacy skills help you navigate complex issues and engage effectively with diverse stakeholders. These skills are crucial for accurately assessing human rights situations, influencing policy, and ensuring meaningful impact in advocating for justice and equality.
More about Human Rights Specialist jobs
What cities are hiring for Human Rights Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Human Rights Specialist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Human Rights Specialist jobs? The most popular types of Human Rights Specialist jobs are:
What states have the most Human Rights Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Human Rights Specialist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Human Rights Specialist job openings in the United States 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 $73,918 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Investigator (Human Rights Specialist 1) (NY HELPS)

New York State

Bronx, NY

$70K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th 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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