Equal Opportunity Associate

Appalachian State University•Boone, NC

22h

About The Position

The Office of Access & Opportunity is part of the Division of Institutional Integrity and provides leadership to the University’s efforts to foster a welcoming and accessible environment. The office promotes opportunity in educational opportunity, programming, and employment and promotes an environment of respect while honoring civil rights for all members of the University community. The Office of Access & Opportunity is composed of Disability Resources and Equal Opportunity. The Equal Opportunity (EO) unit of Access & Opportunity strives to make Appalachian State University a discrimination-free, harassment-free environment for faculty, students, and staff to work, live, and learn. EO oversees university equal opportunity policies, responds to complaints of discrimination & harassment based on protected status or workplace violence, conducts investigations, develops and delivers training and educational outreach to campus, as well as provides consultation to supervisors and managers regarding equal opportunity concerns and initiatives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree
At least two years of demonstrated progressive experience in compliance-related responsibilities
Background knowledge and training in civil rights laws, related guidance, and relevant North Carolina statutes
Demonstrated experience working on complex and confidential issues utilizing judgment, tact, and resourcefulness
Experience in providing education, trainings, or workshops to a variety of populations
Strong verbal and written communication skills

Nice To Haves

Civil Rights or Title IX investigator training/certification
Experience in conducting evidence-based, objective, confidential inquiries and investigations in discrimination and Title IX cases
Working knowledge of the Clery Act, VAWA , FERPA
Experience in pregnancy, religious, or disability related accommodations

Responsibilities

Clearly communicate regarding applicable processes, roles, and expectations.
Conduct initial assessments of reported prohibited conduct and analyze for potential policy violations.
Investigate complaints of misconduct or prohibited conduct, including discrimination, harassment, and related retaliation in accordance with University and UNC System policies, along with state and federal requirements.
Interview individuals and gather, evaluate, and synthesize information, while preparing and maintaining comprehensive case documentation, including investigative files and reports, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and adherence to institutional record‑keeping standards.
Provide objective and fair treatment to all parties.
Author comprehensive investigative reports, illuminating relevant details and preparing documentary evidence.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date case files, including, but not limited to, a timeline of the investigative process and communication with all relevant parties associated with an investigation.
Maintain a high level of privacy and confidentiality during all proceedings with the utmost discretion and sensitivity to all parties accessed and associated with an investigation.
Consult with members of the campus community regarding policy, procedures, and protections under University policy.
Participate in the development, implementation, and maintenance of comprehensive University policies, procedures, and practices in association with University policy and civil rights laws, including Title VI, Title VII , Title IX, Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization, ADA , Section 504, etc.
Work collaboratively with key campus stakeholders, including but not limited to Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and Human Resources, to maintain a safe campus community.
Assist in efforts to prevent and respond to reports of prohibited conduct, including, but not limited to, initial consultation and follow-up, and coordination with campus partners.
Participate in campus and community committees.
Assist in the development and delivery of training and educational programs for university students, employees, and community members regarding equal opportunity laws and compliance obligations, including in maintaining accurate training records and public dissemination.
Participate in active and ongoing training and professional development.
Facilitate the interactive process for employees seeking disability, religious, and pregnancy-related accommodations.
Promote and assist in providing access to and opportunities for university events and programs.