About the Role
The position leads an independent ombuds office, providing confidential conflict resolution, facilitating dialogue, and identifying systemic issues within service delivery. The role operates with neutrality, informality, and independence to build trust and recommend improvements.
Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the operations of an independent ombuds office
- Serve as a neutral party to address concerns from staff, clients, and stakeholders
- Conduct confidential inquiries into complaints and operational challenges
- Facilitate communication between individuals and organizational units
- Identify patterns of conflict or systemic issues in service delivery
- Recommend policy or procedural changes based on findings
- Maintain strict confidentiality in all interactions
- Provide conflict resolution through mediation and informal intervention
- Educate staff and leadership on ombuds principles and practices
- Produce regular reports summarizing trends and recommendations
- Ensure compliance with ombuds ethical standards and best practices
- Work independently while maintaining alignment with agency mission
- Engage with diverse populations, including vulnerable communities
- Support organizational transparency and accountability
- Respond to inquiries with cultural sensitivity and impartiality
- Document case summaries without identifying individuals
- Promote trust in organizational processes through neutrality
- Escalate critical issues to appropriate leadership when necessary
- Develop outreach strategies to increase awareness of ombuds services
- Evaluate effectiveness of conflict resolution methods
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of health and human services regulations
- Coordinate with legal and compliance teams as needed
- Train new ombuds staff or interns
- Support continuous improvement in customer service delivery
- Foster a safe environment for voicing concerns without retaliation
Compensation
Salary commensurate with experience; eligible for benefits
Work Arrangement
Hybrid work environment with remote options
Team
Collaborative team within a state public service agency
Application Instructions
- Submit a resume and cover letter outlining relevant experience
- Applications must be received by the posted closing date
- Finalists may be required to complete a writing sample or interview scenario
Position Type
This is a temporary exempt position contingent upon funding availability
Work Location
- Primary work location is Salem, Oregon
- Some travel within the state may be required
Background Check
Position requires a successful background check prior to employment
Equal Opportunity
Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, or veteran status
Not available
