Human Rights Investigator III

State of Illinois•Chicago, IL

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Under the general direction of a Public Service Administrator in the Investigations Unit of the Fair Housing Division, the Human Rights Investigator III performs advanced specialist investigative work. The position develops or revises investigative techniques and methods in housing and/or non-employment jurisdictions, including real estate transactions, sexual harassment in higher education, access to financial credit, and availability of public accommodations. The investigator carries a caseload of routine and complex cases. The role investigates discrimination charges, gathers evidence, analyzes findings, prepares detailed reports and recommendations, assists lower-level investigators with complex matters, conducts pre-systemic charge conferences, and negotiates settlements. The Department of Human Rights enforces the Illinois Human Rights Act, which prohibits unlawful discrimination in employment, real estate transactions, financial credit, and public accommodations, including education. The position is based at 555 W Monroe St, Chicago, Illinois. The stated work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Hybrid availability is listed as 3 to 5 days per week in the office, depending on operational needs. Completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history are conditions of employment.

Requirements

Knowledge, skills, and mental development equivalent to completion of four years of college; coursework in business, public or personnel administration, or social sciences is preferred.
One year of professional experience as a Human Rights Investigator II, or three years of investigative experience related to discrimination complaints, such as work for the EEOC, HUD, or another state human rights or civil rights agency.
Complete a background check and self-disclose criminal history.

Nice To Haves

At least three years of investigations experience collecting and analyzing testimony and/or records and applying rules, regulations, policies, and/or procedures to make a written recommendation.
At least three years of experience managing an investigations caseload with varying deadlines.
At least three years of experience writing lengthy investigative reports.
At least three years of experience communicating effectively, orally and in writing, with diverse groups, including the general public, management, colleagues, and legal or government representatives.

Responsibilities

Investigate charges of discrimination by seeking information, documents, and statistical data by mail and phone.
Analyze evidentiary findings and draft and submit detailed reports to a supervisor, documenting facts and witness statements and providing recommendations based on the findings.
Assist lower-level investigators with complex investigations or resolution of unusual problems.
Conduct pre-systemic charge conferences with groups or individuals to define issues relating to possible charges of discrimination.
Negotiate settlements between parties to a charge.
Perform other duties reasonably within the scope of the listed duties.

Benefits

Pension program
Competitive group insurance benefits, including health, life, dental, and vision insurance
3 paid personal business days annually
12 paid sick days annually, with sick days carrying over from year to year
10–25 days of paid vacation annually; 10 days in the first year of employment
13 paid holidays annually, and 14 in even-numbered years
Flexible work schedules when available and dependent upon position
12 weeks of paid parental leave
Deferred Compensation Program, a supplemental retirement plan
Optional pre-tax Medical Care Assistance Plan and Dependent Care Assistance Plan
GI Bill training/apprenticeship benefits eligibility for qualifying veterans
5% salary differential for bilingual positions
Commuter Savings Program for Chicago