Institutional Equity Investigator

Brown University; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Brown University is seeking an Institutional Equity Investigator to address complaints of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation within the University community. The role involves collaboration with various departments to develop training programs and provides a critical function in maintaining the integrity of institutional policies.

The ideal candidate should have strong investigative skills, comprehensive knowledge of civil rights legislation, and be an effective communicator. Brown University offers competitive benefits and a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• Five years of related experience, with two years in discrimination investigations.
• Comprehensive knowledge of state and federal civil rights laws.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and travel as needed.

Responsibilities

• Resolve complaints involving discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
• Collaborate with various offices to develop training programs on reporting.
• Manage a caseload of civil rights investigations.

Skills

Investigation skills

Knowledge of civil rights laws

Strong conflict resolution skills

Exceptional critical thinking skills

Education

Master’s degree in a related field

Tools

Maxient software

Job description

Job Description

The Institutional Equity Investigator will play a central role in resolving complaints of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation involving faculty, staff, graduate and undergraduate students at Brown University. The position handles complaints of discriminatory conduct that occur on University grounds and off campus during University‑sanctioned programs and activities. The role reports to the Director of Investigations and Title IX Coordinator, works closely with the Associate Vice President for Institutional Equity, Accessibility and Compliance, and partners in managing day‑to‑day duties of the University's civil rights investigations. As a member of the Office of Equity Compliance & Reporting in the Division of Campus Life, the Investigator serves as an entry point for community members and guests to report or seek information on complaint processes and non‑discrimination policies.

The role also collaborates with staff in the Office for Equity Compliance and Reporting, Office of Diversity and Inclusion, University Human Resources, and the Division of Campus Life to develop and implement training programs and informational materials for faculty, staff, and students on reporting and adjudication processes related to equal opportunity, nondiscrimination, Title IX and other related topics.

Job Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Five (5) years of related experience with a minimum of two (2) successive years of recent, substantive experience in conducting investigations of discrimination.
• Master’s degree in a related field required.
• Comprehensive and working knowledge of current state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to civil rights, discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct.
• Ability to work weekends and evenings and travel when necessary or assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate or Doctorate degree.
• Experience in an office of discrimination and harassment highly preferred.
• Professional experience conducting investigations in a University setting.
• Experience investigating cases of interpersonal violence utilizing trauma‑informed best practices.
• Knowledge of complexities surrounding investigations in a college setting.
• Title IX Investigator training certification.
• Knowledge of Maxient software.

Job Competencies

• Demonstrated experience and ability in conducting investigations, composing clear, concise, timely, and professionally written investigative reports, managing confidential information, and independently and efficiently managing a significant caseload.
• Demonstrated ability to determine and apply the appropriate legal standards in assessing and investigating allegations of discrimination.
• Skill in writing concise, logical analytical reports to convey complex issues.
• Ability to maintain neutrality and work under stress.
• Strong skills in conflict resolution, problem‑solving techniques, and interviewing.
• Exceptional critical thinking skills demonstrated by the ability to analyze information, evaluate results, and facilitate resolution of difficult challenges, including the ability to handle issues of complex and extreme sensitivity.
• Extensive knowledge of the elements of proof for discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, and retaliation.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise discretion, superior judgment and analytical skills and neutrality in highly sensitive situations involving allegations of discrimination.
• Tact, discretion, professionalism, maturity and outstanding interpersonal, oral and written communication skills are required.
• Strong and effective interpersonal skills; the ability to listen well and both be and project impartiality and establish rapport with a diverse range of community members.
• Ability to work as part of a University‑wide community to resolve complaints in a neutral and sensitive manner.
• Ability to establish and maintain professional and productive working relationships with staff at all levels at the University.
• Ability to read and interpret complex legal documents to evaluate their impact on University policy and procedures.
• Must be able to work independently, collaboratively across the organization, and under supervision.

Background Check

All offers of employment are contingent upon a successful criminal background check and education verification satisfactory to Brown.

Additional Information

To learn about benefits at Brown University, visit the Brown University benefits page.

EEO Statement

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.