Civil Rights Investigator

Michigan State University; East Lansing (MI); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan State University in East Lansing is seeking a Civil Rights Investigator within the Investigation, Support, and Resolution Department. The role involves investigating discrimination and harassment claims, interviewing parties and witnesses, collecting evidence, and drafting high-quality investigation reports and appeal briefs within established timelines.

The position requires 3–5 years of investigation experience, a four-year degree or higher, knowledge of civil rights laws (Title

Qualifications

• Requires Bachelor's degree; 3–5 years in complaint investigation or related field.
• Knowledge of civil rights laws (Title VI/VII/IX), ADA, and administrative hearing processes.
• Excellent written, analytical, and public speaking skills; ability to handle confidential information.

Responsibilities

• Investigate discrimination and harassment claims involving students, employees, and third parties.
• Interview parties and witnesses, collect evidence, and draft investigation reports and appeal briefs.
• Maintain regular status updates and collaborate with directors, senior investigators, and advocates.
• Represent the office on university committees and support the adjudication process.

Skills

Interviewing witnesses

Analytical writing

Public speaking

Conflict resolution

Multicultural competence

Education

Bachelor's degree

Juris Doctor degree or advanced degree

Job description

Position Summary

The Civil Rights Investigator position is located within the Investigation, Support, and Resolution Department and is responsible for numerous aspects of university compliance with civil rights laws and policies. Responsibilities include: Investigating claims of discrimination and harassment involving students, employees, and third parties, including interviewing parties/witnesses, collecting evidence, and drafting high quality investigation reports, and appeal briefs, within established timelines. Maintaining regular communication and providing status reports to community partners. Collaborating with the directors, senior investigators and other investigators, advocates and advisors to ensure appropriate resources are available to the parties throughout the investigation and adjudication process. Representing the office through service on University committees. Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree; three to five years of related and progressively more responsible work experience in complaint investigation, mediation, and conflict resolution in a university setting or equivalently complex organization; knowledge of civil rights laws and affirmative action legislation and programming, and familiarity with administrative law hearing process; understanding of related US cultural and historical social movements; experience in multicultural recruitment and retention strategies; comprehensive record-keeping and research skills; familiarity with legal and business software applications; and/or strong presentation and public speaking skills; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment; excellent work ethic and a high level of motivation and productivity; ability to independently manage a large case or workload; exceptional writing skills, including strong analytical and critical thinking skills, and the ability to analyze, summarize and present findings and recommendations; ability to maintain confidentiality of highly sensitive information; excellent communication skills; in-depth knowledge of civil rights laws, including Title VI, VII, IX, ADA, etc.; demonstrated ability to work independently and meet established timelines; willingness to collaborate and contribute as a member of a team; ability to successfully multi-task and work on multiple projects at one time; demonstrated ability to make sound decisions in urgent situations; demonstrated ability to work with a diverse range of people; Understanding or willingness to learn about how reporting or response of misconduct may be impacted based on identities such as race, gender, sexual identity, religion, disability, color, ethnicity, national origin, etc., and a dedication to improving response for all identities.

Experience with higher education law, including, Clery Act, VAWA, and FERPA is helpful but not required.

Experience working in a university environment; prior case management experience; prior experience conducting workplace investigations and drafting investigation reports; Juris Doctor degree or advanced degree with equivalent translatable skills.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Contact information for three (3) professional references
• Professional writing sample

Work Hours

WORK HOURS: STANDARD 8:00AM - 5:00PM, however, as an exempt level position, requirements of the position may require work hours that exceed 40 hours and include some nights and weekend. This is a hybrid role and investigators are required to work on campus in East Lansing at least 2 days per week.

STANDARD 8-5

Website

HTTPS://CIVILRIGHTS.MSU.EDU/

The Bidding Eligibility ends on 09/01/2026 at 11:55 PM