Civil Rights Hearing Officer

Office of Equity and Civil Rights

UMBC’s Office of Equity and Civil Rights (ECR) is responsible for promoting and coordinating the university’s core values of inclusive excellence, equity, and diversity. ECR has primary responsibility for managing UMBC’s efforts related to Title IX as well as other civil rights issues, including discrimination, harassment, hate and bias.

The Civil Rights Hearing Office is a staff position within the Office of Equity and Civil Rights (ECR). The Hearing Officer’s primary responsibility will be to serve as the decision-maker for complaints of sexual misconduct, sexual assault, harassment, discrimination and retaliation by students, faculty or staff.

UMBC offers competitive compensation. This role starts at $81,000 and has over 4 weeks of vacation for regular full time roles. Tuition remission is also available.

What is it like to work at UMBC? Check out Glassdoor or really.

For 15 years in a row UMBC has been recognized as a Great College to Work For!

A hybrid telework schedule may be available.

The Civil Rights Hearing Office is a staff position within the Office of Equity and Civil Rights (ECR).

• The Hearing Officer’s primary responsibility will be to serve as the decision-maker for complaints of sexual misconduct, sexual assault, harassment, discrimination and retaliation by students, faculty or staff.
• The Hearing Officer will serve as the sole decisionmaker to oversee hearings and review meetings upon completion of an investigation and make a determination on whether there is sufficient evidence to support a violation of the University’s nondiscrimination or sexual misconduct policies. This will include reviewing evidence, investigation reports, questioning/facilitating the questioning of parties and witnesses, managing hearings/review meetings, and writing outcome determinations. This role requires the ability to work with confidential and highly sensitive information, maintain confidentiality, and conduct hearings and review meetings in compliance with university policies, procedures, and state and federal laws and regulations.
• The Hearing Officer also provides valuable insights and recommendations to university leadership and campus partners, identifying opportunities to enhance institutional policies, processes, and procedures.

Education Required:

• Bachelor’s Degree and 3 years of directly related experience in a compliance related program capacity.

Experience Required:

• Familiarity with higher education and equity and civil rights related conduct processes procedures.
• Experience with Title IX and related laws; including the understanding of recent Title IX developments, regulatory and enforcement guidance, and legislative initiatives.
• Knowledge of Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ADEA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, Clery Act and VAWA.
• At least 2 years of experience conducting investigations and/or adjudication of Title IX, civil rights, student conduct or labor relations complainants.
• Knowledge of hearing administration theory and best practices to include trauma informed strategies
• Ability to prioritize work appropriately while anticipating deadlines, as well as the ability to meet established deadlines timely.
• Demonstrated analytical and critical thinking abilities to assess complex and large volumes of information and data, determine facts, interpret and apply policy, legal or regulatory requirements and document findings in a clear, concise manner. Ability to use independent judgement and to manage and impart confidential information.
• Ability to work independently, as well as with other administrative and academic departments, faculty, staff, students, alumni groups, and the general public.
• Demonstrated understanding and sensitivity toward experiences and expressions of trauma caused by sexual violence and harassment and demonstrated ability to maintain confidentially and sensitivity to privacy.
• Substantial experience working with diverse populations, including populations of color, the LGBTQIA community, and persons with disabilities.

Education Preferred:

• Juris Doctorate or Master’s Degree in student affairs, higher education leadership, social work, law or related field preferred.

• 3 years of experience working in higher education.
• Proficiency in case management software (e.g., Advocate, Maxient, etc.).

A background check will be required.

Upload a cover letter and a resume.

UMBC offers a rich benefits package.

Regular and grant funded regular positions (Full benefits summary click here):

Generous Leave which includes accruing:

• 22 Days of Annual Leave
• 15 Days of Sick Leave
• 15 Holidays
• 3 Personal Days

Tuition Remission:

• 8 credit hours per semester
• Tuition remission at UMBC for eligible dependents after two years of FT employment

Additional Benefits:

• Life and disability insurance
• Retirement plans (including the choice of joining the pension plan)
• Professional development opportunities
• Wellness opportunities
• & Much more

Salary: $81,000 - $89,000 depending on qualifications and experience.

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, budget, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business considerations.

The above salary range represents the University’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Accommodation:

If you require a reasonable accommodation for a disability for any part of the employment process, please contact the Human Resources Department at 410-455-2337 or MD TTY Relay Service 1-800-735-2258 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.