About the position
The University Compliance and Investigations Officer conducts impartial and thorough investigations into allegations of policy and other violations, including discrimination, harassment, workplace conflict, academic misconduct, and other complaints involving students, faculty, and staff. The Officer is also charged with exercising independent oversight over the institution's compliance with federal, state, and local laws, institutional policies, and regulatory standards while fostering a safe, fair, and equitable university environment. The Officer works collaboratively with campus leadership to develop policies, provide training, and promote a culture of accountability and inclusion.
Responsibilities
- Investigate complaints of civil rights violations (including discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct), workplace conflict, academic dishonesty, or other policy violations in compliance with applicable law and policy.
- Conduct interviews with complainants, respondents, and witnesses, maintaining confidentiality and sensitivity.
- Collect, evaluate, and document evidence, including physical, digital, and verbal materials.
- Draft detailed investigation reports with findings, conclusions, and actionable recommendations, applicable.
- Monitor adherence to laws, regulations, and applicable policies.
- Collaborate with campus stakeholders to align institutional policies with regulatory requirements and compliance best practices.
- Regularly review and recommend updates to policies and procedures and maintain the University’s policies and procedures database.
- Develop and deliver educational programs for students, faculty, and staff on relevant topics.
- Promote understanding of institutional policies, reporting processes, and grievance procedures.
- Partner with HR, Student Affairs, Academic Affairs, the Athletic compliance office, and others to resolve complex issues and mitigate risks.
- Provide advice and support to campus leadership on systemic issues and potential areas of intervention.
- Facilitate dialogue and offer solutions to foster collegial campus environments for students and employees.
- Maintain accurate, secure, and confidential records of investigations.
- Analyze trends in compliance and investigation data to support institutional decision-making and proactive interventions.
- Maintain a matrix of institutional compliance partners and a regulatory compliance reporting calendar.
- Prepare periodic compliance reports for executive leadership and governing bodies.
- Manage the university's compliance, whistleblowing and bias reporting systems, and refer concerns for investigation and resolution as necessary.
- Assess risks arising from investigations and recommend preventive or corrective measures.
- Maintain a compliance monitoring system and regularly update a compliance matrix to track evolving legal, regulatory, and other requirements.
- Review and develop applicable policies and procedures.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in a discipline related to Human Resources, Higher Education, Law, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree or JD preferred).
- 7–10 years of experience in employee relations, HR investigations, or compliance within higher education preferred.
- Experience with employment law or related regulations strongly preferred.
- In-depth understanding of higher education compliance and policies.
- Advanced investigative skills with strong attention to detail and analytical ability.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills for preparing comprehensive reports.
- Ability to remain impartial and handle sensitive situations with discretion.
- Proficiency in case management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
Nice-to-haves
- Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP).
- SHRM-CP, PHR, or equivalent HR certifications.
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits for domestic partners of employees.
- Support for faculty/staff that identify as LGBTQIA+ and/or Black/African-American.
