Summary

The VCU’s Equity and Access Services seeks to hire two Civil Rights Investigators.

VCU Mission

At VCU, we are Uncommon in learning, research, creativity, service, and discovery — the
hallmarks of the VCU experience. A premier, urban, public research university nationally
recognized as one of the best employers for diversity, VCU is a great place to work. It’s a place
of opportunity, where your success is supported and your career can thrive. VCU offers
employees a generous leave package, career paths for advancement, competitive pay, and an
opportunity to do mission-driven work.

Goal of the Unit

Equity and Access Services (EAS) advances VCU’s commitment to the success and wellbeing
of its faculty, staff, students, team members, patients, and surrounding communities. From its
work in the areas of civil rights, access, and equal opportunity and outreach, EAS translates civil
rights policies into practice and delivers impactful and data-informed strategies, promoting civil
rights, equity, and access for all.

Position Overview

The Civil Rights Investigator conducts impartial investigations into discrimination and
harassment complaints reported to the University, including complaints related to discrimination
on the basis of protected identity and sexual harassment/misconduct. They will adhere to and
exceed regulatory requirements, including Title VI, Title VII, ADA, OFCCP, and Title IX
mandates, as well as other federal and/or state civil rights laws. Equity and Access Services
advances VCU’s commitment to fostering a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable learning and
work environment.

EAS is hiring two investigators: each reports to a Director in EAS. Applicants are invited to
express their preference for working within either the Equal Opportunity or Title IX areas.
Investigators will report to either the Director for Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action
Programs or the Title IX Coordinator/Director of Outreach and Support.

Typical Duties

• Plan, conduct, and document all aspects of investigations, as assigned by the Director.
• Duties include, but are not limited to intake processing, evidence gathering, interviews, hearings, document preparation, and appropriate follow-up.
• Ensure cases proceed through grievance processes in a timely manner, consistent with the applicable policies.
• Follow internal protocols and procedures to ensure compliance and equity in dealing with complaints and reports.
• Ensure compliance with legal and institutional requirements, including those initiated by the state, federal, and accreditation policymakers.
• Prepare progress updates, reports, and compliance-related documentation.
• Effectively interface with students, faculty, staff, administrators, and other stakeholders.
• As necessary, recommend and develop new processes, procedures, and policies.
• Contribute to the team’s efforts in education & outreach for the VCU community, data analysis and reporting, and other related tasks.
• Collaborate with university partners and stakeholders to increase civil rights and non-discrimination awareness.
• Complete other assigned duties to support the investigation function and assigned team.

Minimum Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree.
• Experience conducting investigations in at least one job-relevant area.
•  Knowledge of laws and regulations related to Title IX of the Education Amendments of1972, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) amendments to the Clery Act, FERPA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act (asamended), Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975.
•  Organization, planning, and problem resolution abilities.
•  Excellent report writing skills.
•  Familiarity with current best practices and a working knowledge of emerging issues in equity and compliance.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively convey complex information to a wide array of audiences with appropriate sensitivity.
• Excellent judgment with the ability to securely manage highly sensitive, confidential data and information, in an impartial and equitable manner.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize and complete work with firm deadlines.
•  Excellent interpersonal skills, including demonstrated ability to listen well and demonstrate empathy for people and a deep appreciation for VCU’s mission and values.
• Demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty staff, and student environment or commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

Preferred Qualifications

• A Juris Doctor or Master's degree.
• Experience conducting investigations in a university or government agency.
•  Investigation training and certification.
• Knowledge of the complexities involved in working with parties who have experienced trauma, discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct.·
•  Familiarity with applicable investigation models and best practices in the field.
•  Experience using a case tracking/management database.