Investigator

University of Washington Medical Center•Seattle, WA

12d•$100,008 - $115,008

About The Position

Compliance and Risk Services is hiring an Investigator to conduct fact-finding on complex and impactful matters supporting the University of Washington’s commitment to equity and compliance with civil rights laws and University policies. Reporting to the Manager of Civil Rights Investigations, the Investigator handles internal complaints alleging violations of University policies, including discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, and the Student Conduct Code, as well as complaints and charges filed against the University with external agencies. The Investigator conducts investigations in accordance with applicable state and federal laws, regulations, and case law; participates in agency fact-finding and mediation; and may testify in internal proceedings. The role prepares detailed written responses for agencies, prepares witnesses for agency interviews, leads cross-departmental resolution teams, negotiates and executes settlements within delegated authority, and collaborates with University departments and other representatives on complaints and related issues. The position is part of the Civil Rights Compliance Office within Compliance and Risk Services. The office supports compliance with civil rights laws and University policy. This is a regular, 100% FTE position on first shift. The annual pay range is $100,008 to $115,008. The posting directs applicants to the University’s staff benefits information but does not enumerate specific benefits.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate and three years of professional work experience; alternatively, a bachelor’s degree and seven years of experience conducting investigations may substitute for the stated minimum qualifications.
Deep working knowledge of federal and state employment laws and regulations relating to nondiscrimination compliance, including Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, WLAD, and the ADA.
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, including impartiality, the ability to project impartiality, and the ability to establish rapport with diverse community members.
Excellent critical-thinking skills and ability to analyze information, evaluate results, and facilitate resolution of difficult challenges.
Ability to manage highly sensitive and complex issues with professionalism.
Ability to organize and plan work to meet critical deadlines.
Demonstrated ability to prepare complex written reports and provide reliable testimony explaining investigation processes, findings, conclusions, and rationales.
Ability to work effectively independently and as a member of a team.

Nice To Haves

Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school.
Experience within academic and research institutions of higher education or a government agency.
Professional experience conducting civil rights investigations in a public higher education environment.
Experience investigating alleged sexual misconduct, including sexual assault, stalking, relationship violence, and/or domestic violence.
Experience representing employers to enforcement agencies such as the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or the Washington State Human Rights Commission.
Strong conflict-resolution and problem-solving skills, and interviewing best practices, including trauma-informed investigation practices for sexual misconduct matters.
Ability to use computer systems and databases effectively and efficiently, including Windows-based software.

Responsibilities

Investigate internal complaints concerning University policies, including policies on discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, and the Student Conduct Code.
Investigate external agency complaints and charges against the University, including allegations involving discrimination, retaliation, and harassment.
Conduct investigations in accordance with state and federal laws, regulations, and applicable case law.
Participate in external agency fact-finding and mediation conferences as necessary.
Participate in investigation-related activities, including testifying as a witness in internal proceedings related to employee or student misconduct.
Prepare detailed written responses and information for agencies in compliance with agency standards.
Prepare witnesses for interviews with administrative agencies conducting on-site investigations.
Lead cross-departmental resolution teams in devising, refining, and implementing dispute-resolution approaches.
Negotiate settlements within delegated authority, obtain additional authority when needed, and execute settlement agreements.
Collaborate with University departments, Human Resources representatives, Assistant Attorneys General, and administrative personnel on complaints and related issues.