Assistant

The University Ombuds Office is seeking an Assistant Ombuds who will act as a conflict resolution practitioner providing assistance to students, staff, and faculty for their Cornell-related concerns, conflicts, and issues. Assistant Ombuds responsibilities include meeting with community members, conducting outreach and training, and facilitating conversations with students, staff and faculty facing conflict or challenges. Through these activities, the Assistant Ombuds helps visitors resolve conflicts and contributes to building a campus culture of access and belonging. This is a full time, 40 hour/week, on campus position (within commuting distance from Ithaca, NY). Some hybrid activities are possible, but the Assistant Ombuds will be expected to be on campus regularly and frequently. Relocation assistance is not available for this position. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position. Hiring budget for this position is between $91,810 - $96,000. The actual offer will be based on the candidate’s skills and experience. Key Responsibilities Engage in active listening to discuss community members’ concerns; provide answers or connect to appropriate resources; identify and explain relevant University policies and protocols; provide coaching on effective conflict management. Provide visitors with information on how to make the University aware of a particular problem; recognize situations and issues that pose legal liability to the University and mitigate liability by ensuring visitors are aware of all reporting options. Provide referrals to other University or community resources and support services. Participate in resource fairs; update Ombuds Office website and outreach materials; develop and conduct presentations and training on conflict management. Promote and model University values and mission; identify gaps and inadequacies in policies and procedures and assist in making recommendations for improvement; assist in development and management of campus-wide Conflict Management System. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree and at least 5 to 7 years’ experience in conflict resolution, mediation, negotiation, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Demonstrated conflict resolution skills, exceptional listening and interviewing skills, ability to identify significant issues, work with sensitive matters, exercise sound judgment under pressure, and maintain confidentiality. Excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities; strong written and oral communication skills. Experience with subtle and complex institutional political dynamics. Strong background of sensitivity to issues of access and community belonging. Preferred: Understanding of University policies and protocols; awareness of the fluidity of institutional structures; Master’s degree in conflict resolution or related field; subject matter expertise in access and community belonging. A cover letter and resume are required for further consideration for this position. Rewards and Benefits Cornell receives national recognition as an award‑winning workplace for health, wellbeing, sustainability, and diversity initiatives. Position is covered under the Endowed benefits program, including comprehensive health care options, generous retirement contributions, wellness programs, and employee discounts. Leave provisions include health and personal leave, vacation and paid holidays (Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end‑of‑the‑year winter break from December 25‑January 1) as well as two additional floating holidays for faith and tradition observances. Cornell’s educational benefits include tuition‑free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program, tuition aid for external education, and Cornell Children’s Tuition Assistance Program. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position. EEO Statement: Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world‑class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of “… any person … any study.” No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy‑related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr