Ombuds I

Harvard University • Cambridge, MA

56d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Harvard University Ombuds Office provides independent dispute resolution services to Harvard faculty, staff, students, trainees, and appointees at affiliated institutions whose concerns are impacting their work or studies. The office offers a confidential, impartial, and informal forum for visitors to clarify concerns, identify goals, and consider options for managing or resolving issues. Services include coaching in communication, facilitation, shuttle diplomacy, providing information about policies and resources, and training. This is a 2-year term benefits-eligible position through June 30, 2028, with the possibility of extension.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Minimum 5 years demonstrated experience in ombudsing, conflict resolution, mediation and/or negotiation or related field.
• Demonstrated experience in designing (including relevant computer skills) and conducting trainings.
• Demonstrated experience handling highly confidential matters with discretion and maintaining a professional demeanor at all times.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree in a related field preferred.
• Previous Ombuds experience and prior experience in an academic/higher education environment is strongly preferred.
• Basic mediation training (minimum of 30 hours) and/or completion of IOA Foundations of Organizational Ombudsman Practice course.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to work well with individuals at all institutional levels.
• Ability to quickly develop a rapport with others.
• Experience working with subtle and/or complex institutional political dynamics.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Works well both independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Assist visitors in identifying and considering their concerns, goals, and potential options for next steps.
• Assist with clarification of university policies and procedures as needed.
• Conduct informal fact-finding to promote a better understanding of the issues, as appropriate.
• Provide conflict coaching, informal mediation, group facilitation, and shuttle diplomacy.
• Consult with faculty and/or managers to develop general cooperative strategies for complaint resolution.
• Provide referrals to other resources as needed.
• Work closely with key offices serving faculty, staff, students, and/or trainees.
• Provide ongoing education and communication about the Ombuds Office and its role to all Harvard-connected members.
• Conduct trainings currently offered through the Ombuds Office.
• Design and conduct new trainings as needed in areas such as negotiation and conflict resolution skills, authorship best practices, and other related topics.
• Serve as a campus resource for those formulating or modifying policies and procedures.
• Maintain non-identifying visitor statistics and general statistics regarding trainings and presentations for the annual report.
• Share statistics as requested and deemed appropriate by the office.
• Take all steps to ensure the integrity of the Harvard Ombuds Office is maintained at all times, including upholding its standards regarding confidentiality, impartiality, independence, and informality.
• Respond to all individuals in a timely way and treat all with respect and professionalism.
• Contribute to an environment that fosters emotional and physical safety for all visitors and office staff.
• Work collaboratively and effectively with the Ombuds team in all aspects of work.
• Coordinate all aspects of work including some scheduling of visitors, organizing of training materials, and other administrative tasks as needed.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level