Investigator, Title IX and Harassment/Discrimination

Department Statement

The Office of Equity and Diversity ( OED ) leads Colgate University efforts in building and fostering an inclusive campus climate that empowers all members of our community values our diverse and intersecting identities and affiliations. The OED works collaboratively across campus to address and eliminate institutionalized forms of bias and is a leading voice in the shaping and reshaping of Colgate’s strategic plan for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as part of Colgate’s Third Century Plan. The University’s commitment to diversity means understanding that each individual is unique and appreciating our differences enriches our campus culture and the quality of campus life. The OED also oversees and ensures compliance with policies and laws relating to affirmative action, discrimination and harassment.

Accountabilities

Working under the direction of the Title IX Coordinator, the Investigator for Title IX and Harassment/Discrimination is responsible for investigating incidents of alleged misconduct in violation of Colgate University’s Non-Discrimination and Title IX policies. Additionally, this position works closely with a variety of University offices, including but not limited to Legal Affairs, Human Resources, Campus Safety and the Student Conduct Office to ensure a thorough investigative process and compliance with applicable equal opportunity and nondiscrimination laws and policies.

Accountable for preparing investigative plans and timelines, identifying and interviewing witnesses, and gathering and securing relevant documentation, as detailed in Colgate’s policy documents. Primary accountabilities are to act as an impartial party in each investigation and to prepare a detailed report of the investigative findings. This position requires a significant amount of writing and analysis of documents, and an ability to investigate multiple complaints simultaneously in an efficient and timely manner.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Receive intake complaints and ensure a thorough, well-documented investigation process by gathering relevant evidentiary material, documenting interviews and other findings, as well as maintaining accurate and complete records.
• Ability to work independently, developing an investigative plan or strategy to be completed in a timely manner as well as maintain confidential information and ensure effective, efficient, thorough and impartial investigations.
• Prepare materials for assistance with or participation in hearings or administrative processes.
• Build rapport and work collaboratively with the appropriate University offices in the course of investigations. Provide regular status updates to the Title IX Coordinator and Vice President for Equity & Inclusion.

This position also serves as part of the Office of Equity and Diversity team, assisting in its operations as part of this team, as required.

This position has been designated as a Campus Security Authority ( CSA ), in accordance with the federal statutory requirements of the Jeanne Clery Act. CSAs are required to and responsible for reporting allegations of crimes they receive from students and employees to the Campus Safety Department.

Professional Experience/ Qualifications

• A minimum of four years of progressively responsible experience is required, which should include experience in conducting highly sensitive and complex investigations.
• Demonstrated knowledge and the ability to interpret federal, state and local equal opportunity and non-discrimination laws and regulations including Title IX, FERPA, the Violence Against Women Act ( VAWA ) and other applicable state and federal laws and regulations.
• Strong written, organizational, planning, analytic and problem-solving skills required.
• Proven ability at being adept in trauma-informed approach by working sensitively and humanely with parties likely to be distraught.
• Must be capable of working collegially and effectively with a diverse group of faculty, staff, students, and parents on a daily basis.

Preferred Qualifications

• Work experience within higher education, particularly student conduct experience, preferred.
• Knowledge of complexities surrounding sexual assault, sexual harassment, and dating and domestic violence cases in a university or college setting strongly preferred.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree is required, or a combination of education and experience from which comparable skills are obtained.

A Graduate degree is preferred.

Job Open Date
10/24/2022

Job Close Date

Open Until Filled
Yes

Special Instructions Summary

EEO Statement

It is the policy of Colgate University not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of their race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, pregnancy, national origin, marital status, disability, protected Veterans status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, being or having been victims of domestic violence or stalking, familial status, or any other categories covered by law. Colgate is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Candidates from historically underrepresented groups, women, persons with disabilities, and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.
For more information, click the "How to Apply" button.