Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants .
POSITION SPECIFICS
Reporting directly to the Provost’s Chief of Staff, the inaugural Director, University Ombuds Office will be responsible for establishing a new office that serves as a resource for Penn State faculty, staff, and postdoctoral scholars, while also providing a systematic feedback channel for university leadership. The Ombuds Office will develop and implement a structured process for selecting ombuds representatives across organizational units, oversee protocols and training for unit-level ombuds, and serve as a central point of contact for questions, guidance, and coordination. Penn State Ombuds serve as a neutral resource to support these members of Penn State’s community across all our colleges and campuses, helping to clarify misunderstandings, advise employees on available courses of action, and assist in the informal resolution of issues. The Ombuds Office enhances stakeholder contributions to the university, contributes to the positive operation of units, and promotes a fair and respectful campus environment by working to enhance effective communication, avoid misunderstandings, and clarify issues and language in interactions between unit stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
Conflict Resolution & Consultation
- Provide neutral and informal consultation to individual faculty, staff, and postdocs
- Assist in resolving workplace and interpersonal concerns
- Facilitate restorative dialogue when appropriate
- Coach individuals with conflict management and communication strategies
- Identify patterns and systemic issues while protecting individual confidentiality
Policy Navigation & Referral
- Guide faculty, staff, and postdocs to appropriate university policies, offices, and formal complaint channels
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of institutional policies and procedures
Training and Coordination
- Develop protocols and training for ombuds within units across Penn State and serve as a central point of contact for questions, guidance, and coordination
- Develop a strategy for individual unit ombuds to support staff and postdocs and integrate the existing Faculty Senate Ombuds program
Outreach & Education
- Conduct workshops and presentations on conflict resolution, civility, and the role of the Ombuds Office
- Promote awareness of the Ombuds Office and its services across all campuses
Data & Reporting
- Track and analyze trends in concerns and conflicts
- Prepare de-identified annual reports highlighting systemic issues and recommending policy or procedural changes
Office Leadership
- Establish and manage the Penn State Ombuds Office
- Represent Penn State in national and regional Ombuds networks
- Hire and manage staff and oversee budget and operations
Required Qualifications
- Advanced degree in a relevant field (e.g., law, social work, higher education, conflict resolution)
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in conflict resolution, mediation, or higher education administration
- Demonstrated knowledge of the International Ombuds Association (IOA) Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics
- Strong interpersonal, analytical, and communication skills
- Ability to maintain neutrality, confidentiality, and independence
- Experience working with diverse populations and complex institutions
Preferred Qualifications
- Completion of IOA’s Foundations of Organizational Ombuds Practice course
- Experience in data analysis and reporting
- Familiarity with university governance, academic freedom, and compliance frameworks
- Supervisory experience and strategic planning capabilities
Working Conditions
- Primarily office-based with potential for hybrid work
- Occasional travel between campuses and professional development events
- Minimal physical demands
Application Details
Cover letter, current résumé or CV, and references
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Master's Degree
10+ years of relevant experience, includes 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $130,596.00 - $202,464.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page .
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.
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