Compliance Investigator

The Compliance Investigator is primarily responsible for responding to and investigating internal/administrative complaints received by the Ethics and Compliance Office (ECO) alleging conduct that is prohibited by university policy and state and federal law, including but not limited to the university’s Sexual Misconduct Policy and Complaint Procedures; Ethics and Accountability in the Workplace Policy; and Nondiscrimination, Harassment and Retaliation Policy and Complaint Procedures. The Compliance Investigator provides initial intake/review, prepares investigation plans, conducts interviews of involved parties, and authors detailed reports while maintaining a well-organized and accurate case file.

The Compliance Investigator conducts applicable legal research as it relates to the current trends and laws governing higher education. The Compliance Investigator works with the team to assist with the development and implementation of applicable policies and response procedures and collaborates on effective communication methods for the dissemination of information to campus constituencies. The Compliance Investigator may also be assigned to special projects, such as developing trainings related to ECO’s policies and procedures and other compliance matters.  

This position has the ability to work in a hybrid work environment, with a combination of remote and on-campus work.  

Specific Responsibilities:

• Conduct prompt, thorough and equitable investigations for complaints filed by university students, faculty, or staff, and visitors or third-party participants.
• Utilizing sound investigatory principles, interview complainants, respondents, witnesses and related individuals to determine violations and proposed conclusions.
• Prepare comprehensive executive report and summary of all findings based upon an analysis and synthesis of evidence gathered during the investigation.
• Assists Director and Assistant Director of Investigations with complaint intake process and investigation procedures.
• Utilize applicable legal research methods and investigatory principles to determine outcome of investigations/inquiries.
• Maintain knowledge of civil rights laws, such as Title VII, Title IX, and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
• Update electronic complaint database throughout investigation process.
• Collaborate with campus and community offices and departments on issues related to civil rights, sexual misconduct, ethics and other compliance related matters.
• Conduct compliance education programming and training upon request.
• Researches and prepares periodic and ad hoc reports on general and specific compliance issues.
• Maintain high levels of responsiveness, attention to detail, follow-through and customer service as a principal representative of ECO. Monitor these standards for other staff in the department and division.
• Exhibit a model for ethical conduct and standards across the university.
• Other duties as assigned by the Director of Investigations.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s Degree in law, communication, political science, public administration, adult and higher education, or related field; or J.D.
• Two (2) years of professional experience conducting or assisting with administrative internal investigations.
• Excellent writing, analytical, and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to exercise independent sound judgment and reasoning.
• Strong organizational skills and the flexibility to work independently as well as in a team environment are a must.
• Ability to maintain neutrality while addressing sensitive topics.

Preferred Qualifications:

• J.D.
• Experience investigating complaints in the higher education setting.
• Knowledge and understanding of state and federal laws impacting public service organizations or institutions of higher education, including but not limited to Title IX, Title VII, Title VI, VAWA, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Illinois Preventing Violence in Higher Education Act.
• Proven commitment to and experience working with diverse populations.

Required Applicant Documents

• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter
• Transcripts (unofficial with official required at hire)
• List of References
• Please submit application and documents through NIU online employment system at https://employment.niu.edu/postings/76564. Review of completed applications will begin on March 22, 2024. However, applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Please contact Sarah Garner at sadamski1@niu.edu for questions regarding this position and applications.

EEO Statement and Visa Policy

In accordance with applicable statutes and regulations, NIU is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, religion, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, political affiliation, or any other factor unrelated to professional qualifications, and will comply with all applicable federal and state statutes, regulations and orders pertaining to nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document from upon hire.