Ombuds I

Harvard University • Cambridge, MA

382d • Remote

About The Position

The Ombuds I position at Harvard University is designed to provide independent dispute resolution services to faculty, staff, students, and trainees. The role involves assisting individuals in clarifying their concerns, identifying goals, and exploring options for resolution. The Ombuds Office serves as a confidential and impartial resource, offering coaching, mediation, and training in conflict resolution and negotiation skills.

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 and conducting trainings.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work well with individuals at all institutional levels.
• Experience handling highly confidential matters with discretion.
• Strong background of sensitivity to diversity issues.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree in a related field preferred.
• Previous Ombuds 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.

Responsibilities

• Assist visitors in identifying and considering their concerns, goals, and potential options for next steps.
• Conduct informal fact-finding to promote a better understanding of the issues.
• Provide conflict coaching, informal mediation, group facilitation, and shuttle diplomacy.
• Consult with faculty and/or managers to develop cooperative strategies for complaint resolution.
• Provide ongoing education and communication about the Ombuds Office and its role to all Harvard-connected members.
• Design and conduct trainings in negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Serve as a campus resource for formulating or modifying policies and procedures.
• Maintain non-identifying visitor statistics and general statistics regarding trainings and presentations for the annual report.

Benefits

• 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff).
• 12 accrued sick days per year.
• 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January.
• 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire).
• Up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary caregivers.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Disability and life insurance programs.
• Child and elder/adult care resources including on-campus childcare centers.
• University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation.
• Tuition Assistance Program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School.
• Tuition Reimbursement Program providing 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses.
• Professional Development programs and classes at little or no cost.
• Various commuter options including discounted parking and half-priced public transportation passes.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree