Civil Rights Mediator | On-Call/Temporary

City of Davenport; Davenport (IA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Part time

Job summary

City of Davenport seeks a Part-Time Civil Rights Mediator to provide on-call mediation services for discrimination complaints. The role focuses on facilitating equitable resolutions, explaining civil rights processes, and supporting enforcement objectives.

Reliable transportation to various locations is required, with no guaranteed hours. The position emphasizes trauma-informed, culturally responsive mediation and collaboration with staff and community partners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in law, social sciences, conflict resolution, or related field.
• Two years of mediation or dispute-resolution experience preferred.
• Knowledge of civil rights laws and equity principles.

Responsibilities

• Conduct civil rights mediations between complainants and respondents to reach mutual resolutions.
• Review case materials and applicable statutes before mediation sessions.
• Facilitate neutral, trauma-informed dialogue and explain potential outcomes.
• Document proceedings and submit reports to the Commission or supervising staff.
• Provide recommendations on systemic issues identified through mediation cases.
• Maintain confidentiality and impartiality; coordinate with staff and partners.
• Participate in training to improve mediation techniques and cultural competency.

Skills

Mediation skills

Conflict resolution

Negotiation techniques

Active listening

Education

Bachelor’s degree in law, social sciences, conflict resolution, or related field

Juris Doctor (preferred)

Job description

Definition

The Davenport Civil Rights Commission is the employer for this position. The Part-Time Civil Rights Mediator provides professional mediation services to assist the Civil Rights Commission in resolving complaints of discrimination. This position is responsible for facilitating equitable resolutions between parties, promoting understanding of civil rights laws, and supporting Commission enforcement objectives. The role is on-call/temporary, scheduled as needed to respond to cases requiring mediation.

Examples Of Duties

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct civil rights mediations between complainants and respondents to achieve mutually agreeable resolutions.
• Prepare for mediation sessions by reviewing case materials, background documentation, and applicable statutes or regulations.
• Facilitate dialogue in a neutral, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed manner.
• Assist parties in understanding civil rights laws, processes, and potential outcomes of mediation.
• Document mediation sessions, agreements, and outcomes, and submit reports to the Commission or supervising staff.
• Provide recommendations to the Commission or senior staff regarding systemic issues identified through mediation cases.
• Maintain confidentiality and impartiality in all interactions with parties.
• Collaborate with Commission staff, legal counsel, and community partners to support timely and effective resolution of complaints.
• Participate in training or professional development related to civil rights, mediation techniques, and cultural competency as needed.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in law, social sciences, conflict resolution, or a related field.
• Minimum of two years of professional experience in mediation, dispute resolution, civil rights, or related professional practice.
• Demonstrated knowledge of civil rights laws, principles of equity, and dispute resolution processes.
• Experience working with diverse populations and applying culturally responsive, trauma-informed approaches.

Preferred Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) or advanced degree in conflict resolution, law, or related field.
• Certification or formal training in mediation or alternative dispute resolution (ADR).
• Bilingual skills (Spanish, Vietnamese, or other languages relevant to the community).

Knowledge and Skills

• Knowledge of civil rights legislation, regulations, and complaint processes.
• Skilled in mediation, conflict resolution, and negotiation techniques.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills.
• Ability to remain impartial and professional in sensitive or high-conflict situations.
• Proficiency in documenting proceedings and preparing clear written summaries.
• Ability to manage time effectively in an on-call, flexible work schedule.

Note

This position is on-call and does not guarantee a set number of hours. Mediators are expected to provide services as requested and must have reliable transportation to attend sessions at various locations.

No benefits.