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SUMMARY:
The Associate Ombuds provides neutral, informal, independent and confidential conflict resolution services to visitors who are Gallaudet University constituencies, including students, faculty, staff, families of students, and alumni in accordance with International Ombudsman Association Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.
Reporting to the University Ombuds, the Associate Ombuds engages in visitor consultation, conflict assessment, and analysis, conflict coaching, restorative practices, circle processes, mediation or facilitation; assists the University Ombuds with visitor consultation and case management as appropriate and with strict accordance to the Standards of Practice, including but not limited to contacting appropriate parties, information gathering, documentation review, or policy interpretation as it relates to visitor concerns to explore resolution options; collaborates with the University Ombuds with cases that may overlap or uncover systemic issues; manages individual caseload efficiently; engages and conducts data collection and analysis to identify systemic trends. Works with the University Ombuds to prepare quarterly and annual reports; identify and share resources, make informed referrals, develop the selection process for conflict resolution and restorative circle facilitators, develop and present conflict resolution training and workshops requested by various campus groups.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
I. Remains independent, neutral and impartial, and exercises good judgment in complicated situations and serves as a point of contact for University community members engaged in academic or workplace conflict with strict adherence to confidentiality.
II. Applies knowledge of, and experience with, current University policies, procedures and personnel in resolving complaints, and assists inquirers in interpreting University policies and procedures.
III. Serves as a subject matter expert in conflict competence; and develops and delivers group training and presentations on a range of conflict and restorative justice-related topics.
IV. Employs a wide variety of problem-solving techniques to assist visitors with problem solving and decision making; this includes active and deep listening, helping to clarify problems, identifying and evaluating options, making informed referral to other resources as necessary, coaching on effective conflict management, negotiation, shuttle diplomacy, facilitation, and mediation, with an understanding that visitors must be consulted and grant permission before any direct action is taken.
V. Participates in planning and executing various conflict resolution and restorative practice models and approaches for individuals, groups and programs.
VI. Works with departments and across divisions to establish coordinated efforts to minimize the potential costs of organizational conflict.
VII. Participates in the development of operating goals and objectives for the Office of the Ombuds and its marketing efforts.
VIII. Makes informed recommendations regarding improving or elevating program effectiveness.
IX. Performs data collection, records maintenance and report preparation duties with strict confidentiality.
X. Supports University Ombuds in the managing of cases having varying levels of complexity.
XI. Serves in the Ombuds’ absence including oversight of the office operations and signature authority.
XII. Pursues and maintains a positive and mutually supportive working relationship with the Ombuds and University constituencies.
XIII. Participates in training, activities and workshops to foster continuous learning in alternative dispute resolution-related areas.
XIV. Maintains awareness of multiple dimensions of diversity, equity and inclusion and their impact on conflicts and concerns.
XV. Demonstrates ability to abide by International Ombudsman Association Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics, exercising discretion and maintaining confidentiality.
XVI. Stays abreast of trends and changes in the Ombudsman profession specifically Ombuds in Higher Education and participates in ombuds outreach activities on campus, regionally and nationally.
XVII. Demonstrates a high level of self-awareness and insight to be able to work collaboratively and establish rapport with individuals from linguistically, socioeconomically and/or culturally/ethnically diverse backgrounds.
XVIII. Performs other related duties, as assigned.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Required Minimum Qualifications (When the candidate’s resume meets these qualifications, it will be screened in)
Bachelor's degree.
A minimum of four years of professional experience directly related to some of the duties and responsibilities specified.
Experience in handling two-party and/or group facilitations.
Fluency in American Sign Language and English.
Preferred Qualifications (While not required, it is a bonus for what the position needs)
Master’s degree.
Experience in quantitative data analysis.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Qualities that will help the incumbent be more successful in the position)
Demonstrated skills in cross-cultural communications.
Demonstrated inclusive beliefs and values.
Awareness of personal biases, stereotypes and effective responses to cultural differences and similarities.
Knowledge of PC/Apple software for word processing, scheduling, and databases.
Ability to organize problem-solving mediation/facilitation sessions, guide parties toward effective solutions, and bring cases to closure.
Strong written and interpersonal communication skills.
Excellent analytical and conceptual thinking abilities to research, evaluate and frame complex issues and problems and to develop and apply effective recommendations and solutions.
Knowledge of social justice, restorative justice and restorative practices.
Knowledge and understanding of organizational dynamics, management, development and change.
Ability to understand the risk and liability issues of a complex cultural, academic and research institution, including the principles of multicultural/multilingual deaf community, shared governance and academic freedom.
Knowledge of the appropriate role of the Ombuds, International Ombudsman Association principles and standards of practice.
Ability to show flexibility in experimenting new multicultural approaches and models that work for University community needs and Ombuds Office.
Strong team player skills to support the Ombuds Office goals, objectives, and initiatives.
The successful candidate will undergo a background check that must be cleared prior to working at Gallaudet University.
The incumbent must complete International Ombuds Association Foundations training within six months upon hire.
Gallaudet University is an equal opportunity employer/educational institution and does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, national origin, religion, age, hearing status, disability, genetic information, covered veteran status, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, source of income, place of business or residence, pregnancy, childbirth, or any other unlawful basis. This policy is in compliance with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the District of Columbia Human Rights Act, and other applicable laws and applies to all procedures affecting applicants and employees including, but not necessarily limited to: recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, reassignment, reappointment, tenure, demotion, selection for training, layoff, furlough, and termination, compensation, and all other conditions or privileges of employment.
COMPENSATION:
LEVEL: 9
SALARY: Commensurate with experience and qualifications
FLSA: Exempt