PAID EMPLOYMENT IN AMNESTY INTERNATIONALHow do I find a job vacancy?
All vacancies are advertised online on our jobs page.
We advertise for specific vacancies; to find out about these vacancies you can search our vacancy database for all current open positions.
You can also subscribe to our RSS feed to receive information about future vacancies.
We also advertise in local press or through other forms of media, such as jobs boards, websites etc.
In all cases, you can apply using our online form, or by downloading the application form in Word format.
If you don't find vacancies of interest to you within the International Secretariat, you can also visit Amnesty International websites in your country.
How do I apply for a job?
You can do this by completing our application form. This is available online or can be downloaded in Word format.
What pay and benefits does the International Secretariat offer?
We offer competitive salaries, modern working environments and excellent staff benefits.
Read more about working at Amnesty International
Does the International Secretariat accept speculative CVs?
No. We ask that all candidates complete an application form so we can ensure you provide us with the information we need to make an accurate assessment of your skills and experience.
Can I get a work permit to work at the International Secretariat?
We are committed to equal opportunities and cultural diversity. Unfortunately our ability to obtain a work permit for potential employees is contingent upon the immigration requirements of the countries in which we operate.
We will indicate in the details of the post whether or not we believe we will be successful in gaining a permit.
If we do not believe we will be successful, you should only apply for the role if you already have the legal right to live and work in the country.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: VOLUNTARY AND INTERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
How often are the volunteering and internship opportunities advertised?
Vacancies are advertised on a very regular basis. Roles are usually advertised for two weeks.
I am not a British national - can I volunteer in the UK?
We actively encourage applications from all around the world. If shortlisted, we will arrange a telephone interview.
If successful, we will provide you with a sponsorship number so you can apply for a Tier 5 Temporary Worker visa to be granted the right to volunteer in the United Kingdom for up to 12 months.
For further details about the process in the country applicants are applying from and to download the application forms go to the visa services website (if applying from outside the United Kingdom).
Note that you will be responsible for all costs related to your visa application, including flights and living costs when you come to the UK.
How long will I need to commit for?
Volunteers and interns are free to leave at any time. However, we would appreciate it if you could commit to a minimum of three months for voluntary roles and for a minimum of three to six months for internship roles.
Can I complete a generic application for roles that do not exist?
Due to the high number of applications we receive, you can only apply for the roles that we advertise on the website. We neither consider generic application forms nor CVs.
Will I be contacted after I submit my application?
Applicants who submit an application to the volunteering mail box volunteering@amnesty.org will receive a confirmation by email.
Applicants who wish to receive confirmation about the receipt of their application when submitting either by post or fax will need to email us at volunteering@amnesty.org quoting the reference of the role they applied for.
Who should we accept as a referee when completing my application form?
We ask for the names and details of two referees who you have known for a minimum of six months either in a paid (employment) or unpaid capacity (ie training course, voluntary work, teachers, professors).
How long does it take before I am contacted for an interview?
You should consider your application as being unsuccessful if you do not hear from us within six weeks from the closing date. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted for an interview.
Payment and expenses
Volunteer and internship roles at the International Secretariat are unpaid. We will, however, cover up to £6.50 per day for travel expenses (subject to receipt) and £4.50 per day for lunch expenses on the days you volunteer in your team.
Will my flight expenses be covered?
This is not currently possible.
Accommodation in London
Amnesty International is unfortunately unable to assist you in finding accommodation.
You may wish to check www.loot.com or www.gumtree.com for information about flats and rooms to rent in London.
Can you keep my application form for other voluntary roles?
You will need to submit an application for every voluntary or internship roles you wish to be considered for.
If I want to undertake a training course (stage, practicum), can this be done through the voluntary programme?
Yes. You need to apply and if recruited for a role, we will be able to liaise with your school or university to confirm your acceptance as a volunteer/intern.
Can I volunteer if I have a disability?
Yes. Once recruited for a role, we will assess your needs and make reasonable adjustments around your disability to enable you to volunteer.
Can I volunteer if I'm under 16 years old?
There is no age restriction and you can apply for any role as long as you commit to the minimum required length.
However, there is no guarantee that volunteering will lead directly to employment within Amnesty International.
Can I volunteer whilst claiming Job Seekers Allowance?
If you are claiming Jobseekers Allowance (JSA) you are fully entitled to volunteer for as many hours as you like, as long as you remain available for and are actively seeking work.
How much training do volunteers/interns receive from the organization?
Although we would expect that volunteers/interns have the required skills to conduct their voluntary duties, we will also allow them to participate in courses that are directly related to their work and will be provided by the organization. This will enable them improve their skills in order to perform their voluntary role well.
Will I be entitled to a reference letter after my stay as a volunteer/intern?
Volunteers and interns are issued with a reference letter which outlines the duties they were assigned and also includes details about their performance as part of the team/programme they have volunteered for.
Are there any social events organized in the International Secretariat for volunteers/interns?
In recognition of the time, support and energy given by our volunteers and interns, we organize a monthly event when we can all get together and celebrate the involvement of our 100+ volunteers/interns.
These events included lunches, dinners, trips to towns in the UK and other activities (eg ten-pin bowling, museum visits).
Can I be contracted for a paid job after my volunteering period?
We value very highly our volunteers and the contribution that they make to our organisation but we must make clear that volunteering at Amnesty International is not a guaranteed entry into paid work with our Organisation.
Having said this many of our current employees have previously volunteered for Amnesty International or similar organisations and it is an experience that will be of great value to you should you wish to start a career in this field.
All of our current employment vacancies are advertised on the website under Vacant Positions should you wish to apply at any time.
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