People passionate about civil rights, free speech, and government transparency often look for careers where their work has legal and social impact, which is why many turn to ACLU Jobs. Known for its involvement in landmark cases and public policy reforms, this American nonprofit civil rights organization connects legal professionals, advocates, tech experts, and creatives in one of the most high-profile nonprofit spaces in the country.
From roles in litigation support to digital strategy and donor engagement, American Civil Liberties Union Jobs offer a rare chance to mix professional skills with direct action. Some positions are office-based in places like NYC or NJ, while others are listed as remote jobs to allow more flexible work setups. Job seekers with a background in law, communications, research, or grassroots organizing will find openings that align with both their skills and personal values.
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ACLU Jobs | Work in Public Policy and Social Justice Fields
About the ACLU
The American Civil Liberties Union, founded in 1920, is a nonprofit organization that works to defend and expand the individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. With over four million members and supporters, it addresses issues like freedom of speech, privacy, reproductive rights, racial justice, and voting access through litigation, lobbying, and public education.
Its national headquarters are located in New York City, with state-based affiliates operating in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. While the national office handles major federal cases and high-level policy strategy, local affiliates focus on regional advocacy and outreach. The ACLU also produces detailed reports, legal guides, and position papers that influence courts, legislatures, and public opinion nationwide.
Types of Jobs
The ACLU hires across legal, advocacy, technology, communications, and administrative roles. Positions are available through its national office and local affiliates across the U.S.
- Staff Attorney
Works on constitutional litigation, prepares legal briefs, and leads civil rights cases in areas like criminal justice, immigration, or voting access. - Policy Analyst
Tracks legislation, researches legal trends, and helps shape state or federal policy positions on civil liberties issues. - Remote Communications Strategist
This role creates messaging plans, media pitches, and content for campaigns and can often be performed from a remote setup. - Community Organizer
Connects with local residents, builds coalition support, and runs grassroots events that support legal advocacy in underserved communities. - IT Systems Specialist
Supports cybersecurity, data privacy, and digital infrastructure to ensure security across the organization’s tools and platforms. - Paralegal
Assists legal teams with research, case files, client communication, and trial prep for court or administrative hearings. - Intern
ACLU internships are offered in legal, policy, and tech departments and give students hands-on experience in real advocacy projects. - Volunteer Program Assistant
Supports recruitment and training of volunteers, tracks service hours, and helps schedule outreach events or campaign days.
Salary & Benefits
The ACLU structures its compensation to reflect both the demands of public-interest work and the organization’s commitment to equity. While not matching corporate rates, roles are competitive within the nonprofit legal sector and come with meaningful perks that reflect a long-term investment in staff.
Core employee benefits include:
- Employer-covered health, dental, and vision insurance
- Generous paid leave, including vacation, sick days, and federal holidays
- 401(k) retirement plan with matching contributions
- Paid parental leave and family-care options
- Wellness reimbursements and counseling resources
- Transit benefits for urban commutes in areas like NYC
- Annual learning stipends and legal education coverage
Typical salary estimates:
- Staff Attorney: $88,000 to $115,000 per year
- Policy Analyst: $68,000 to $84,000 per year
- Communications Strategist (remote): $60,000 to $76,000 per year
- Community Organizer: $55,000 to $70,000 per year
- Paralegal: $52,000 to $64,000 per year
- IT Specialist: $70,000 to $90,000 per year
- Internships: $17 to $21 per hour or school credit
- Volunteer roles are unpaid but include training and travel stipends in some programs
Eligibility Criteria
ACLU roles vary widely, but each one requires a mix of technical ability and personal alignment with the organization’s civil liberties mission. It’s not just about having the right degree. It’s about being ready to contribute to high-stakes work in a fast-paced, values-driven setting. What most roles expect from applicants:
- Age 18 or older with legal work eligibility in the U.S.
- A bachelor’s degree for most policy and admin roles; JD required for attorney positions
- Demonstrated interest or experience in civil rights, law, or public advocacy
- Clear writing and strong communication skills, especially for public-facing roles
- Comfort working in multicultural teams and sensitive legal spaces
- For remote positions, access to a secure internet connection and a quiet workspace
- Time management and attention to detail, especially in legal support or research-heavy roles
- Some jobs may require travel or public speaking as part of advocacy efforts
- Criminal background checks may be conducted depending on the position
How to Apply for ACLU Jobs?
If you’re interested in civil liberties work and want to contribute to legal, advocacy, or operational efforts, applying for ACLU Jobs can be done entirely online. The organization posts all openings publicly, with clear instructions and timelines. The process is as follows:
- Take a look at the careers page.
- Scroll down to see available roles by category.
- Click on a job listing to read the full requirements, responsibilities, and deadlines.
- Select “Apply for this job” and fill out the application form.
- Attach your resume along with a cover letter.
- Answer any screening questions related to mission fit or experience.
- Submit your application and watch your email for follow-up messages.
Summary
The ACLU allows professionals to turn their legal, tech, or advocacy skills into real-world civil rights work. Whether you’re in courtrooms, policy teams, or digital strategy, the organization places you on the front lines of constitutional defense. With roles available in NYC, NJ, and across remote settings, the ACLU remains one of the most recognized and respected nonprofit employers in the United States for those seeking impact with purpose.