University Investigator

Posting Number 20112872 Position Title University Investigator FTE 1.0 Position Type Staff Department Strategic Initiatives and Community Relations

Position Summary Information

Job Summary/Basic Function

About This Role:

• This role is responsible for investigating and managing complex and sensitive compliance related cases including unlawful discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct policy violations of Lamar University and Lamar Institue of Technology . They will work independently and collaboratively to deliver efficient and systematic resolution to investigations. Also, serve as the in-house expert on investigation procedure and documentation. They will work as part of a team to develop and deliver trainings resulting in the prompt, impartial, and thorough investigation of allegations

What You'll Do

• Position Responsibilities

• Investigations are completed within timeline expectations.

• Completes intake and assessment of incoming complaints of discrimination, harassment, and misconduct based on protected identity, including complaints of sexual misconduct according to LU and LIT policy. Collects and analyzes witness statements and documentary evidence and makes credibility determinations.

• Prepares thoughtful and thorough investigative reports and recommendations for corrective action.

• Manages data and tracking of complaints and investigation.

• Maintains complete, accurate and well-organized investigation files.

• Establishes timely and effective communication with all parties.

• Recommends action to the Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources and/or Executive Leadership.

• Works with and provides updates to University legal counsel, VP of Strategic Initiatives and Community Relations, Title IX Coordinator, and others as requested.

• Develops written materials (e.g., compliance reports, forms, etc.) for the purpose of documenting activities.

• Knows and understands all applicable legal and policy requirements pertaining to conducting investigations.

• Develops and works collaboratively with LU and LIT campus and community partners to offer training and educational programming.

Key Competencies:

• Ability to effectively interact with various student and employee populations.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality, discretion, professionalism, and integrity.

• Strong listening, interviewing, and counseling skills.

• Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize workload and multi-task in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.

• Strong problem solving and investigatory skills; ability to objectively identify, assess, resolve, and mitigate risk while ensuring optimal outcomes are achieved.

• Clear, concise, and well-organized writing.

• Demonstrated ability to drive results through individual efforts and influencing others, without authority over them.

• Exceptional written and oral communication and presentation skills with an ability to effectively interact with all levels within an organization.

• Ability to create and summarize detailed written reports.

• Excellent customer service and relationship management skills with the ability to maintain a high degree of confidentiality, diplomacy, tact, and business acumen.

• Knowledge of federal and state anti-discrimination laws and University policies and procedures related to equal opportunity and non-discrimination.

• Ability to interpret and accurately apply University policies and procedures related to investigation and adjudication of compliance-related complaints.

Physical Requirements:

Will be responsible for performing various administrative and clerical tasks to support the smooth operation of the department. Should be able to:

• sit for extended periods
• use a computer accurately and efficiently
• read documents on a computer screen
• communicate effectively and efficiently with colleagues and clients both in-person and by phone or remote means, as needed
• move around the office and campus, as needed
• manipulate small objects
• lift light office supplies when necessary

Who We Are:

Lamar University is an accessible global university for life-long learners with a passion for broad-based community engagement. As a vital contributor to the socioeconomic wellbeing and resilience of the Gulf Coast region, our expertise is recognized locally and beyond. Lamar University is home to more than 17,000 students and is among the fastest growing Texas colleges and universities. LU is a member of The Texas State University System, which is the first higher education system of Texas and maintains the lowest average tuition and fees of any university system in Texas. With more than 100-degree options and a community that cares, Lamar students are always proud to be Cardinals.

Lamar University is committed to fostering a culture of diversity where students, faculty and staff of all backgrounds can learn, work, and serve.

Benefits:

• Health, dental & vision insurance

• Life insurance

• State of Texas Retirement plans

• Tuition covered at 100% for employees, spouses and/or eligible dependent.

• Paid time off - vacation, sick, and holidays.

To see more information about the available benefits, please visit: Insurance

• Lamar University

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university.

• Minimum 3 years of experience in EEO compliance, Human Resources, Title IX, audit, or similar area.

• Minimum 1 year experience conducting investigations.

EEO Statement

Lamar University is An Equal Opportunity Employer

Veteran's Preference Statement

Lamar University is proud to provide employment preference to veteran applicants in accordance with Texas 805 Government Code, Section 657.003.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience as EEO investigator

• Experience as Title IX investigator or coordinator

• 3+ years experience in education or higher education compliance

• ATIXA or SHRM investigator certification

• Training in trauma-informed investigations

• Experience as attorney or paralegal in employment law or higher education law practice

Security Sensitive Statement

This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information.

Salary $58,739-$76,361 Work Hours

Application Information

Posting Date 03/26/2024 Close Date 06/26/2024 Open Until Filled No Special Instructions