Investigator - Office of the Chancellor - EXTENDED

This is a full-time, 12-month appointment reporting to the Chief of Staff and Senior Strategy and Compliance Officer.

About the role

The Investigator is responsible for conducting fair, thorough, and timely investigations into high-profile, sensitive, and complex complaints involving alleged violations of civil rights and conduct-related policies, including hazing, sexual harassment, sexual violence, discrimination, and retaliation. This position plays a critical role in advancing the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater's commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive campus environment. The Investigator ensures investigations are conducted in accordance with institutional policies, applicable state and federal laws, and established best practices for professional investigations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct prompt, impartial, and thorough investigations by developing investigative plans, interviewing complainants, respondents, and witnesses, gathering and preserving evidence, and maintaining comprehensive case records
• Conduct interviews, prepare accurate interview summaries, and ask appropriate follow-up questions to obtain relevant information regarding allegations of misconduct, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or other policy violations
• Draft clear, accurate, and professional correspondence throughout the complaint resolution process
• Evaluate and distinguish relevant and directly related evidence in accordance with applicable policies and procedures
• Prepare comprehensive investigative reports that include factual findings, credibility assessments, and well-supported analyses
• Provide consultative support to affiliated entities regarding ongoing investigations and investigative processes
• Assess incoming complaints, determine applicable policies, and communicate investigative updates to appropriate stakeholders
• Participate in meetings, hearings, grievance proceedings, and other processes related to investigation outcomes
• Maintain strict confidentiality and handle highly sensitive information in compliance with institutional policies and applicable state and federal laws
• Remain current on applicable laws, regulations, and best practices, including Title VI, Title IX, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), the Clery Act, and related guidance
• Collaborate effectively with departments and stakeholders across the university to support compliance efforts

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree
• A minimum of three (3) years of professional experience investigating and resolving discrimination, harassment, or employment-related complaints, including complaints involving sexual misconduct or sexual violence. Relevant clerkships, internships, or clinical experience may be considered

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience conducting investigations in a higher education, governmental, or regulatory compliance environment
• Juris Doctor (J.D.) or an advanced degree in higher education, employment relations, law, or a related field

Skills

• Exceptional analytical, investigative, and report-writing skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws and regulations affecting higher education, including Title VI, Title IX, First Amendment protections, anti-hazing laws, and other civil rights and criminal statutes, with the ability to apply them in a university setting
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and manage sensitive information with professionalism and discretion
• Ability to interact respectfully with people with diverse socioeconomic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds
• Willingness and ability to be an active participant in following applicable safety rules and regulations including necessary training and drills

Pay

Well-qualified candidates can expect a starting annual salary within a range of $70,000 – $77,000.

Benefits

UW System employees receive an excellent benefit package. Learn more about the UW System’s comprehensive benefit package.