Civil Rights Investigator or Senior Civil Rights Investigator (level commensurate with experience)

Virginia Commonwealth University•Richmond, VA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

VCU has an exciting opportunity for a Civil Rights Investigator or Senior Civil Rights Investigator to join our team in Equity and Access Services. Equity and Access Services (EAS) advances VCU’s commitment to the success and wellbeing of faculty, staff, students, patients and surrounding communities. From its work in the areas of civil rights, access, and equal opportunity and outreach support, EAS translates civil rights policies into practice, and delivers impactful and data-informed strategies, promoting equal opportunity and access for all. The Civil Rights Investigator or Senior Civil Rights Investigator conducts complex impartial investigations into discrimination and harassment complaints reported to the University, including complaints related to discrimination on the basis of protected identity and sexual harassment/misconduct. They will adhere to and exceed regulatory requirements, including Title VI, Title VII, ADA, EEOC, and other equal opportunity mandates, as well as other federal and/or state civil rights laws. Equity and Access Services advances VCU’s commitment to fostering a more accessible and equitable learning and work environment. The Civil Rights Investigator or Senior Civil Rights Investigator (Title VI) is responsible for conducting complex, impartial investigations into complaints filed with Equity and Access Services (EAS), including allegations of discrimination, harassment, and, where applicable, sexual misconduct. In addition, the individual in this role will collaborate with the Equal Opportunity (EO) team to support departmental and unit planning, implementation, and assessment efforts. This includes work related to intake processes, informal resolution, investigative procedures and protocols, outcomes, and reporting.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree with 5-10 years of experience.
Several years of experience conducting civil rights or related investigations in an institution of higher education or other government or public agency.
Working knowledge of laws and regulations related to Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, FERPA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act (as amended), Title IX, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975.
Significant organization, planning, and problem resolution abilities.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively convey complex information to a wide array of audiences with appropriate sensitivity.
Excellent judgment with the ability to securely manage highly sensitive, confidential data and information, in an impartial and equitable manner.
Excellent interpersonal skills, including demonstrated ability to listen well and demonstrate empathy for people and a deep appreciation for VCU’s mission and values.
Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

Nice To Haves

A Masters degree, JD or advanced law degree (LL.M).
Title VI, EO , Title VI or similar investigation training and certification.
Experience conducting investigations, informal resolutions or relevant experience in human resources, civil rights or related.
Experience working with faculty, staff, and student environments and a commitment to doing so at VCU.
Experience navigating the complexities involved in working with parties who have experienced trauma, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
Familiarity with applicable investigation models and best practices in the field.
Experience using a case tracking/management database, specifically Maxient, Symplicity, and/or Box.

Responsibilities

Plan, conduct, and document all aspects of investigations, as assigned. Duties include, but are not limited to, intake processing, evidence gathering, intake and investigative interviews, informal resolutions, document preparation, and appropriate follow up.
Ensure cases proceed through EO processes in a timely manner, consistent with the applicable policies.
Assist in developing and ensure all investigations follow internal protocols and procedures to ensure compliance and equity in dealing with complaints and reports.
Assist in evaluating regulatory guidance related to investigations, and ensure compliance with legal and institutional requirements, including those initiated by the state, federal, and accreditation policymakers.
Prepare progress updates, reports, and compliance-related documentation with emphasis on Title VI.
Effectively interface with students, faculty, staff, administrators, and other stakeholders.
Work closely with the EO team to recommend and develop new processes, procedures, and policies; contribute to unit-level policies and represent the unit in university policy revision processes as necessary.
Contribute to the team’s efforts in education & outreach for the VCU community, data analysis and reporting, and other related tasks.
Collaborate with university partners and stakeholders to increase civil rights and non-discrimination awareness.
Complete other assigned duties to support the investigation function and assigned team.