Development & Outreach Department Intern

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and promoting human rights globally. Established in 1978, HRW conducts in-depth investigations and advocacy campaigns to address human rights abuses and hold violators accountable. With a presence in over 90 countries, HRW employs a diverse team of professionals committed to advancing human rights through research, reporting, and advocacy. The organization is known for its rigorous standards of accuracy and its commitment to impartiality, making it a respected voice in the human rights community.

Job Overview:
The Development & Outreach Department Intern position at Human Rights Watch in Sydney offers a unique opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in a well-organized international non-profit environment. Interns will engage in various outreach and development tasks, including event planning, fundraising, and donor cultivation. The internship is designed for students who are passionate about international human rights and wish to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting. Interns will work part-time, up to 20 hours per week, and will be expected to be present in the Sydney office at least two days a week. This role not only provides valuable experience but also allows interns to participate in HRW's collegial atmosphere and attend various events and meetings, enhancing their professional development and networking opportunities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a range of tasks that support the Development & Outreach Department's objectives. Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting with event planning and logistics for fundraising and outreach events.
• Utilizing databases to manage and support event-related tasks.
• Collaborating with team members to cultivate relationships with individual donors, foundations, and corporations, primarily in Sydney and Melbourne.
• Participating in weekly HRW staff meetings and online meetings with global development colleagues.
• Attending external HRW events, such as donor meetings and public briefings.
• Engaging in additional projects that align with the intern's interests and the department's needs.
• Contributing to a positive team environment and supporting the overall mission of Human Rights Watch.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the internship must meet several qualifications to ensure they can contribute effectively to the team. Applicants should be currently enrolled students for the duration of the internship, demonstrating a commitment to their academic pursuits. Strong organizational skills and a proactive approach to projects are essential, along with a demonstrated reliability and a keen interest in international human rights. While not mandatory, experience in fundraising, media, social media, government relations, event planning, and familiarity with Salesforce is highly desirable. Proficiency in computer skills, particularly Microsoft Office, is strongly preferred. Additionally, applicants must possess valid work authorization in Australia for the entire duration of the internship.

Educational Background:
The internship is best suited for tertiary students, particularly those studying fields related to international relations, human rights, social sciences, or non-profit management. Candidates should be actively enrolled in their academic programs throughout the internship period, which is crucial for gaining academic credit and fulfilling educational requirements. The position is designed to complement students' academic learning with practical experience in a professional setting.

Experience:
While prior experience in a non-profit organization is not strictly required, any relevant experience in fundraising, event planning, or advocacy work will be considered an asset. The internship is particularly aimed at students who are looking to gain their first professional experience in the field of human rights and non-profit work. The ideal candidate will be eager to learn and contribute to the mission of Human Rights Watch while developing their skills in a supportive environment.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all communications and tasks will be conducted in English. While not required, proficiency in additional languages may be considered an advantage, particularly if it aligns with the organization's outreach efforts in diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
The internship is part-time, requiring interns to commit to up to 20 hours per week for a duration of three months, starting in mid-February 2027 and concluding at the end of April 202

• There is some flexibility regarding the start date, and the possibility of extending the internship may be available. Interns will receive reimbursement for lunch and transportation expenses incurred while working in the office. This position is open to students who are based within commuting distance of the Sydney office, and it is essential that they can attend the office at least two days a week, specifically on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Human Rights Watch is committed to diversity and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply.