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Humanitarian Law Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American

$41.20/hr

Minimum three years' work experience, preferably in international legal research or international or criminal litigation, with specialized expertise in international criminal or humanitarian law.

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How much do humanitarian law jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for humanitarian law in the United States is $19.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Humanitarian Law vs Human Rights Lawyer?

AspectHumanitarian LawHuman Rights Lawyer
Required CredentialsLaw degree, specialization in international law, often with certifications in humanitarian lawLaw degree, specialization in human rights law, often with certifications in human rights advocacy
Work EnvironmentInternational organizations, NGOs, courts, conflict zonesLegal firms, NGOs, government agencies, international courts
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by international bodies like the ICRC, UN, NGOsUsed by advocacy groups, legal institutions, government agencies

Humanitarian Law focuses on rules applicable during armed conflicts to protect those affected, while Human Rights Lawyers work on broader civil, political, and social rights issues across various contexts. Both roles require legal expertise but serve different legal frameworks and objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in humanitarian law, and how can they prepare for them?

Professionals in humanitarian law often face challenges such as working in high-stress environments, dealing with limited resources, and navigating complex legal frameworks in conflict zones. They may also need to adapt quickly to rapidly changing situations and collaborate with diverse teams, including local authorities, NGOs, and international organizations. To prepare, candidates should develop strong resilience, cross-cultural communication skills, and a solid understanding of both international law and the practical realities of fieldwork. Proactively seeking mentorship and engaging in continuous learning can also be highly beneficial.

What is humanitarian law?

Humanitarian law, also known as international humanitarian law (IHL) or the law of armed conflict, is a set of rules that seek to limit the effects of armed conflict for humanitarian reasons. It protects people who are not participating in the hostilities, such as civilians, medical personnel, and aid workers, and restricts the means and methods of warfare. The most well-known sources of humanitarian law are the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols, which set out the rights and protections for individuals during times of war.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Humanitarian Law professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Humanitarian Law professional, you need a strong background in international law, often supported by an advanced law degree with a focus on humanitarian or human rights law. Familiarity with legal research databases, case management tools, and sometimes certifications such as International Humanitarian Law (IHL) training are typical requirements. Exceptional analytical thinking, cultural sensitivity, and strong communication skills help navigate complex legal scenarios and collaborate with diverse stakeholders. These skills are crucial for effectively advocating for human rights, ensuring legal compliance during conflicts, and promoting justice in challenging environments.
More about Humanitarian Law jobs
What cities are hiring for Humanitarian Law jobs? Cities with the most Humanitarian Law job openings:
What states have the most Humanitarian Law jobs? States with the most job openings for Humanitarian Law jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Humanitarian Law jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Humanitarian Law jobs are:
Humanitarian Law jobs near you
Infographic showing various Humanitarian Law job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,831 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Legal Associate

International Committee of the Red Cross

Manhattan, NY

$4.3K/mo

Other

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Legal Associate

Posted by International Committee of the Red Cross | New York, NY

New York is home to the UN Headquarters – including the Security Council and the General Assembly, whose work affects humanitarian developments and legal issues in situations of armed conflict. Operating since 1983 and granted observer status by the General Assembly in 1990, the ICRC Delegation to the UN in New York City plays a key role in humanitarian diplomacy. ICRC NYC elevates the concerns of conflict-affected people to governments and other policymakers, while developing relationships important to the ICRC’s credibility with parties to armed conflict. In addition, the NYC Delegation fosters recognition of the ICRC as the reference organization for international humanitarian law and principled humanitarian action.

FUNCTION: Legal Associate

DIRECT SUPERIOR: ICRC NYC Deputy Permanent Observer and Head of the Legal Department

TERMS: This is a full-time, paid internship position with benefits.

Contract Period is 12 months, non-renewable.

Expected start date July 2026, with some measure of flexibility on the precise start date.

Minimum required knowledge & experience:



  • A university degree in law at the LL.M. or J.D. level or equivalent.
  • Very good knowledge of International Humanitarian Law (IHL).
  • Good knowledge of Public International Law as well as the institutions and working procedures of the United Nations an asset. Good knowledge of International Human Rights Law is also an asset.
  • Excellent oral and written skills in English. Good understanding of at least one other working language of the UN is also an asset (French and Spanish are particularly useful).
  • Good Microsoft Office software skills (Outlook, Microsoft Word, Power Point, Excel, etc.).
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States. The ICRC is unable to arrange a US visa for non-visa holders.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The associate will provide support to the legal team, and other units/departments, as necessary.

Main Responsibilities will include:



  • Contributing to the Delegation’s legal analysis of current themes and supporting the work of the Legal Advisers.
  • Monitoring developments at the United Nations (UN), including Security Council and General Assembly debates, media coverage, UN websites and relevant legal and political blogs, to identify significant developments of interest to the Delegation.
  • Attending and representing the ICRC at meetings at the UN, Permanent Missions to the UN, academic institutions and think tanks.
  • Drafting regular and timely reports and analyses on meetings and events attended, as well as relevant developments reported in external sources.
  • Researching and drafting reports and reviewing documents on legal issues and other topics related to the work of the Delegation, including primarily, but not exclusively, on international humanitarian law.
  • Assisting with managerial and administrative tasks as necessary, including the coordination of ICRC expert missions to New York, timely submission of ICRC reports and statements to the UN and maintenance of legal files and records and preparing materials for workshops, seminars and external meetings.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 17, 2026

STIPEND / WAGE: $55'900 p.a. - salary paid monthly over 13 months ($4'300.00 per month)

HOURS PER WEEK: 40 hours per week

BENEFITS:



  • Health Insurance
  • 20 vacation days per year

LOCATION: 801 Second Avenue, New York, NY, United States 18th Floor

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Kindly include:



  1. your resume (no more than two pages)
  2. your cover letter, in English (no more than one page)

APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 17, 2026 . Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

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