Hearing Officer

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn. One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community. University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose of Position

This position is eligible for a 100% remote work arrangement, consistent with System Office policy. UNC Chapel Hill employees are generally required to reside in North Carolina, within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned duty station.

The Hearing Officer is responsible for conducting fair and impartial hearings and adjudicating reports under the Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment and Related Misconduct (PPDHRM Policy) and the Policy on Prohibited Sexual Harassment Under Title IX (TIX Policy) and the related procedures. The Hearing Officer is also responsible for conducting fair and impartial grievance hearings and adjudicating grievances in non-faculty employee grievance proceedings. The Hearing Officer reports to the Executive Director of Strategy, Policy, and Special Projects.

The duties of the Hearing Officer include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Maintain an annual calendar of available hearing dates
• Schedule hearings by coordinating with Investigators, parties and their advocates/support persons, and witnesses
• Conduct pre-hearing meetings with Investigators, parties and their advocates/support persons, and witnesses
• Review investigation reports, grievance documents, and/or supporting materials prior to hearings, as appropriate
• Conduct EOC student hearings in PPDHRM matters, TIX hearings in student and employee matters, and conduct employee grievance hearings fairly and impartially, including asking questions of parties and witnesses; determining relevance of questions asked by parties or their advocates; maintaining decorum; and maintaining adherence to applicable procedures
• Conduct fair and impartial hearings and serve as decision-maker as to responsibility and appropriate sanctions, as appropriate and in accordance with applicable policies and procedures
• Draft detailed written determinations of hearing/grievance outcomes, including the rationale for the decision, consistent with applicable procedures and based on an objective evaluation of the relevant evidence
• In conjunction with leadership, train alternate hearing/grievance officers
• Stay abreast of legal developments and best practices related to student conduct, Title IX, and sexual misconduct hearings and collaborate with other units and campus partners on hearing practices
• Participate in regular review of policies and procedures related to hearing process
• Contribute to EOC annual report as needed related to hearing outcomes
• Serve as point of contact with parties and their advocates throughout the hearing process
• Support potential grievance or litigation matters involving hearing processes and/or outcomes in coordination with the Office of University Counsel

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The Division of Human Resources and Equal Opportunity and Compliance provides the University with a full range of human resources services in support of the University’s teaching, research, and public service mission. We commit to support and influence a culture of excellence, respect, and inclusiveness by delivering valuable and innovative services to the University community, creating an environment in which both Faculty and Staff thrive.

The Equal Opportunity and Compliance Office (EOC) is UNC-Chapel Hill’s designated, central office for addressing issues related to discrimination and harassment based on any protected status, including sexual assault, sexual violence, interpersonal violence, and stalking, as well as retaliation and other related misconduct. EOC addresses all matters related to compliance with relevant education and employment laws and regulations, including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and other related laws. EOC’s compliance efforts include creating, implementing, and enforcing University policies that promote an equitable, inclusive, and welcoming campus community; providing accommodations for students and employees based on protected status; handling matters related to equal employment opportunities; and providing educational programs and consulting services in these areas across campus.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent educational or instructional activities associated with the delivery and/or management of student support functions, will accept a relevant Bachelor’s degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and at least 1 year of relevant experience in substitution.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in work related to Title IX, Title VII, and/or student conduct. Demonstrated knowledge of and ability to interpret federal and state equal opportunity and non-discrimination laws and regulations, including Title IX, Title VII, FERPA, VAWA, and other applicable laws and regulations is required. Prior experience investigating and/or adjudicating sexual misconduct matters is required. The successful candidate must have excellent writing and analytical skills; the ability to apply policy definitions in real time, particularly related to relevance; an understanding of and ability to use trauma-informed practices in a hearing setting; and the ability to operate neutrally. In addition, the candidate must have a demonstrated ability to exercise independent and mature judgment, maintain objectivity, and safeguard confidential and sensitive information. Ability to maintain decorum in high-stress situations. Must have the ability to work onsite as directed.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

Experience at a large, complex research institution is preferred. Prior experience adjudicating grievances or other employee conflicts is preferred. JD strongly preferred.

Special Instructions

To apply, please visit: https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/298129 to submit a cover letter and CV/resume.