LWOP Senior Project Organizer

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization that has been operational since its establishment in 197

• HRW is known for its in-depth investigations, incisive and timely reporting, and innovative advocacy campaigns that have successfully influenced human rights-related policies and practices of governments and international institutions. The organization employs a diverse workforce and operates in over 90 countries, with a mission to protect and promote human rights globally. HRW actively seeks to create a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates from various backgrounds to apply, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and equality.

Job Overview:
The LWOP Senior Project Organizer will lead the project focused on life without parole (LWOP) sentences in California, a critical initiative that Human Rights Watch has been advocating against since 200

• The role involves extensive collaboration with individuals who have been sentenced to LWOP, particularly those who have been released, to build their leadership capacity. The organizer will be responsible for conducting leadership training, managing the National LWOP Leadership Council, and developing communication strategies to raise awareness about the issues surrounding LWOP sentences. This position is integral to HRW's mission to eliminate LWOP sentences and will require the organizer to engage with various stakeholders, including NGOs, governmental agencies, and the media, to foster a collaborative environment for reform.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Project Organizer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: establishing and nurturing relationships with external partners such as NGOs and law firms; maintaining electronic filing systems to track efforts against LWOP; collaborating with the CRD Program Officer and team members; developing communication strategies for campaigns; planning and implementing training sessions for formerly sentenced individuals; coordinating meetings and events; supporting the National LWOP Leadership Council in strategic planning; assisting with administrative functions; and representing HRW at public events. The organizer will also be tasked with drafting communications, conducting research, and performing other duties as required to support the project and its objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, with a strong preference for individuals who have personal experience with the justice system, particularly those who have been incarcerated or are family members of incarcerated individuals. The ideal candidate will demonstrate optimism, strong organizational skills, self-motivation, and the ability to work collaboratively in diverse teams. They should also have experience in community organizing, event planning, and project management, along with a commitment to supporting formerly sentenced individuals in their leadership development.

Educational Background:
A bachelor’s degree is preferred for this position, although equivalent experience in relevant work or leadership roles will also be considered. Experience gained while incarcerated is highly valued, reflecting the organization's commitment to inclusivity and understanding of the justice system.

Experience:
The position requires individuals who have personal experience with the justice system, particularly those who have been formerly incarcerated or have family members who are incarcerated. Experience in community organizing, event planning, and project management is essential, as is a commitment to supporting individuals formerly sentenced to LWOP in gaining the skills necessary to become effective advocates for reform.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, with excellent oral and written communication skills. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly Spanish, is highly desirable and will be considered an asset for the role.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term, full-time position (40 hours per week) with a duration of one year. The role may be based remotely but will require occasional travel to the Los Angeles office and other locations for events and meetings. The salary range for this position is USD 68,000 – 76,000, and HRW offers competitive compensation and employer-paid benefits. Applicants must possess valid US work authorization, and the organization emphasizes its commitment to diversity and equal opportunity in its hiring practices.