ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Human Rights Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

ADM

Human Rights Specialist - Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL · On-site

$160K - $246K/yr

Human Rights Specialist - Chicago, ILThe Human Rights Specialist is responsible for leading the implementation of ADM's human rights and responsible sourcing commitments across global operations and ...

Uottawa

Lead Advisor, Human Rights Office

Campus, IL · Hybrid

Human Rights Office Campus: Main Campus Union Affiliation: N/A Date Posted (YYYY/MM/DD): 2026/05/28 Applications must be received BEFORE (YYYY/MM/DD): 2026/09/14 Hours per week: 35 Salary Grade: Non ...

Langara

Partner, HR Services

Campus, IL · On-site

$41.77 - $61.26/hr

Identifies organizational risks as they relate to people management, human rights, labour laws and employment standards, BC WorkSafe and safety regulations, College policies and protocols.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHuman Rights JobsHuman Rights Jobs in Illinois

Human Rights information

See Illinois salary details

$25.7K

$42.9K

$58.1K

How much do human rights jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for human rights in Illinois is $42,874.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,300.00 and $46,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are human rights jobs?

Human rights jobs are positions focused on promoting, protecting, and advocating for the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals. These roles can be found in non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international agencies, government bodies, and advocacy groups. Common responsibilities include research, policy analysis, legal support, campaigning, and providing direct assistance to affected communities. Professionals in this field work on issues such as equality, freedom of expression, refugee protection, and social justice. Careers in human rights require a strong commitment to ethical standards and often involve collaboration across cultures and sectors.

What are human rights jobs?

Human rights jobs focus on advocacy, outreach and legal efforts to enforce existing laws pertaining to human rights. In this field, you educate others about human rights, oversee volunteers offering their time and service, and petition your government to address local or international violations of human rights guidelines. Many human rights organizations focus on lobbying and research, especially as it pertains to tracking human rights abuses and identifying potential legislative solutions. In recent years, technology companies have also started to focus on human rights and how people can abuse social media. These jobs usually involve creating algorithms, investigating reports of abusive content, and coordinating with law enforcement as needed.

What are some common challenges human rights professionals face when working on international cases?

Human rights professionals working on international cases often encounter challenges such as navigating complex legal frameworks across different countries, addressing language and cultural barriers, and ensuring the safety and confidentiality of vulnerable populations. Additionally, they may face difficulties in accessing reliable information and collaborating with local partners who may have limited resources or face government restrictions. Effective communication, adaptability, and a strong understanding of international human rights law are essential to overcoming these obstacles and making a meaningful impact.

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 typically need a background in law, international relations, or social sciences, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in advocacy or policy work. Familiarity with international human rights law, policy analysis tools, and reporting systems like UN databases is essential. Strong communication, cultural sensitivity, and analytical thinking are vital soft skills for effective advocacy and negotiation. These skills and qualities are crucial for advancing human rights initiatives, influencing policy, and supporting vulnerable populations globally.
More about Human Rights jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Human Rights jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Human Rights jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Human Rights jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Human Rights job openings:

Human Rights jobs near you
Infographic showing various Human Rights job openings in Illinois as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $42,874 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Human Rights Specialist - Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL • On-site

Archer Daniels Midland
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Archer Daniels Midlandexternal

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

ADM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Human Rights Specialist - Chicago, IL
The Human Rights Specialist is responsible for leading the implementation of ADM's human rights and responsible sourcing commitments across global operations and supply chains. The role owns the company's Human Rights Policy, coordinates internal implementation, and drives continuous improvement through supplier due diligence, risk assessments, and responsible sourcing audits. Working closely with Procurement, Sustainability, Legal, Compliance, and business teams, the specialist ensures human rights risks are identified, mitigated, and managed in line with company commitments and evolving regulatory requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Human Rights Strategy & Governance:
  • Own and maintain ADM's Human Rights Policy, ensuring it remains aligned with international standards and emerging legislation.
  • Develop and implement internal action plans to deliver against the company's human rights commitments.
  • Monitor progress against human rights objectives and prepare reports for internal leadership and external sustainability disclosures.
Responsible Sourcing Program:
  • Partner with Procurement to deploy and continuously improve ADM's Responsible Sourcing Program.
  • Conduct supplier human rights risk assessments and recommend appropriate mitigation measures.
  • Assist procurement teams in managing supplier corrective action plans and improving supplier performance.
Supplier Audits & Due Diligence:
  • Coordinate and manage responsible sourcing audits, including SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit) and other recognized social compliance assessments.
  • Review audit findings, identify systemic risks, and oversee remediation plans through to closure.
  • Track audit performance metrics and identify trends for continuous improvement.
Internal Engagement & Training
  • Develop and deliver internal training on human rights, modern slavery, responsible recruitment, and supplier expectations.
  • Support cross-functional teams in embedding human rights considerations into sourcing decisions.
Stakeholder Collaboration
  • Build and maintain relationships with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), non-profit organizations, industry associations, and multi-stakeholder initiatives to strengthen ADM's human rights program and stay informed on emerging risks and best practices.
  • Represent ADM in external forums, industry working groups, and responsible sourcing initiatives to promote collaboration and continuous improvement.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Human Rights, International Development, Business, Law, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in human rights, responsible sourcing, ethical trade, ESG, sustainability, or supply chain compliance.
  • Experience managing supplier social audits, particularly SMETA, with knowledge of other audit frameworks considered an asset.
  • Strong understanding of international human rights standards, including the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, OECD Due Diligence Guidance and ILO Core Conventions.
  • Excellent project management, stakeholder engagement, and communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects across global supply chains.
  • Ability to travel 15-20% in North America and internationally.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of responsible agricultural or commodity supply chains.
  • Familiarity with regulations such as the EU CSDDD, EU Forced Labour Regulation, and similar human rights due diligence requirements.
Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. 
REF:112354BR

What ADM employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply