Investigator, Civil Rights

The Office of Institutional Equity (OIE) is committed to supporting a campus culture where all members of our community have equitable access to academic and professional opportunities and are supported in their individual and collective pursuits and efforts.

Civil Rights Investigators are responsible for supporting the day-to-day responsibilities associated with the University of Arizona's compliance with nondiscrimination laws, regulations, and policies, with particular emphasis on assessing, investigating, and resolving alleged cases of discrimination and harassment. Incumbent displays the highest levels of integrity, initiative, resourcefulness, and sound judgment, coupled with the ability to work independently and balance an investigative caseload.

The Office of Institutional Equity acts to ensure equal opportunity and to safeguard the civil rights of University community members. This commitment is demonstrated to individuals and the community through ongoing outreach, education, and effective response and resolution in collaboration with colleagues and administrative partners.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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• Ownership over assigned cases in which the incumbent represents the institution in conducting comprehensive investigations concerning alleged discrimination and harassment, including initial inquiries; preparing and filing complaint forms.
• Preparing for and conducting interviews; reviewing related documents including police reports and student and employment records; analyzing facts based on legal and policy standards; making findings and binding conclusions.
• Preparing thorough and unbiased investigative reports; serving as a witness at any resulting administrative hearings.
• The in-depth information gathering and analysis are leveraged to determine, communicate, and apply multiple processes, procedures, and options to and across all members of the University community, from the highest-level administrators to traditionally aged undergraduate students.
• Research and interpret the ever-changing and constantly evolving landscape around applicable civil rights regulations, laws, and guidelines, including (but not limited to) the legal landscape around nondiscrimination legislation and regulations such as EEO, Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, ADA, and Section 504.
• Advise administrators, managers, and supervisors about nondiscrimination laws, policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Navigate University policies, processes, and protocols and
  apply legal, human resources, and institutional best practices in developing
  and implementing alternative resolution strategies in response to
  discrimination/ harassment and retaliation concerns.
• Engage in strategic communication among OIE, the Dean of Students Office, Division of Human Resources, Office of the General Counsel, University administrators, and members of the University community, providing high-level subject-matter expertise and independent guidance to inform institutional decision-making and policy interpretation.
• Lead or contribute to specialized initiatives, committees, or projects that enhance University-wide nondiscrimination practices, ensuring alignment with evolving regulatory requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Excellent analytical abilities and writing skills.
• Advanced knowledge of federal and state nondiscrimination laws (Title IX, Title VII, Title VI, ADA, Section 504, EEO).
• Ability to independently manage complex and sensitive investigations.
• Strong communication skills to collaborate with senior leadership, legal counsel, faculty, staff, and students.
• Ability to interpret University policies and provide expert guidance to administrators.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain neutrality.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional-level experience required.
• Eight (8) years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• J.D.
• Decision-maker or Hearing Officer experience.
• Higher education experience.