HR Investigator
Role Mission: The HR Investigator is responsible for investigating and managing the most complex and sensitive HR related cases within IDEA, including unlawful discrimination and harassment, company policy violations, and other employee relations matters. The Investigator works collaboratively to deliver efficient and systematic resolution to investigations and serve as the in-house expert on investigation procedure and documentation. The role is expected to work effectively across geographical and cultural boundaries with an ability to discern systemic issues revealed during the investigative process. Additionally, this role will work as part of a team to develop and deliver trainings resulting in the prompt, impartial, and thorough investigation of allegations.
Location:
This is a full-time remote position based in Texas with preference given to candidates who live in Austin, El Paso, Houston, Permian Basin (Midland/Odessa), Rio Grande Valley, San Antonio, and Tarrant County (Fort Worth), or who are willing to relocate.
What You’ll Do - Accountabilities:
Essential Duties:
100% of investigations completed within timeline expectations according to federal/state law and/or IDEA policy.
Completes intake and assessment of incoming complaints of discrimination, harassment, and misconduct based on protected identity, including complaints of sexual misconduct raised through TEA, EEOC, OCR, IDEA’s Lighthouse, HR Hotline and email reporting systems.Performs initial analysis of all complaints; partners with other team members to determine strategy; prepares written investigative reports by reviewing, summarizing, and evaluating relevant information collected during investigations; prepares and maintains logs, completed reports, and other documentation; provides information to management as appropriate.Prepares effective investigative plans. Collects and analyzes witness statements and documentary evidence and makes credibility determinations. Prepares thoughtful and thorough investigative reports and recommendations for corrective action.Conducts thorough and impartial investigations comprising background research, investigative interviews, and debrief meetings in partnership with HR partners, operations, legal, and other stakeholders.Delegates to trained HR team members any appropriate investigations based upon Investigator capacity, region of origin, and conflict of interest.Provides referrals and resources to complaining and responding parties.
Case manages 100% of investigations, regardless of assigned investigator, including tracking system, communication updates, and final findings reports.
Articulates issues to the organization in the form of findings and conclusions, so that long-term solutions can be developed and applied.Manages data and tracking of all complaints, including those investigated and those not.Establishes timely communication with all parties, including those with a need to know in order to recommend/make appropriate and timely decisions.Prepares high quality written reports of the investigation which provide a clear and logical account of the allegations, investigative work performed, and key findings.Recommends action to the MD of HR, manager and/or Executive Leadership.
Ensures investigation Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), policy, and resources are up to date and legally compliant, in coordination with Director of HR Compliance.
Knowledgeably interprets federal and state equal opportunity and non-discrimination laws, regulations, and guidance applicable to institutions of higher education, including Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, Educational Codes for the states IDEA operates within, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and ADA and other related laws and policies.Develops a wide variety of written materials in both manual and electronic formats (e.g., compliance reports, forms, etc.) for the purpose of documenting activities, providing written reference, and/or conveying information.Knows and understands all applicable legal and policy requirements pertaining to conducting investigations.Informs the Investigation documentation, tools and SOP for the organization.
100% of HR team and school, region, and organization leadership trained in prevention, effective investigations, and legal compliance.
Works in conjunction with campus and community partners to offer training and educational programming aimed at preventing and addressing discrimination, harassment, and misconduct based on protected identity, including sexual misconduct under Title IX.Develops a wide variety of trainings for the purpose of expanding deputy investigators, and ensure leadership operates within compliance for all policy & procedures.Trains, coaches, and mentors leaders and HR team members on investigation best practices.Operates with people-centered approach in all interactions with staff, families, students, legal team, board members, and external stakeholders.
Uses a high degree of empathy balanced against an ability to provide direct feedback, handle sensitive and confidential information, and navigate through difficult and uncomfortable situations.Provides supportive and protective measures, guidance, and assistance to complainants and respondents.Assists as needed with accommodations due to disability, religious practices, and pregnancy.Easily develops trust and rapport and influences partners and business leaders.
What You Bring – Competencies
Experience:
Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or universityMinimum 5 years of experience in Compliance, HR Compliance and /or HR Leadership - with previous experience in investigationsSHRM Investigator certification required, or ability to obtain it within 6 months of hireFluency in Spanish preferredTravel 25% of the time, as required
Knowledge and skills:
Demonstrated commitment and ability to meet the needs of a diverse population with a focus on equity and inclusivityAbility to maintain confidentiality, discretion, professionalism and integrityStrong listening, interviewing, and counseling skillsExcellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize workload and multi-task in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detailStrong problem solving and investigatory skills; ability to objectively identify, assess, resolve, and mitigate risk while ensuring optimal results or outcomes are achievedDemonstrated ability to drive results through individual efforts and influencing others, without authority over themExceptional communication and presentation skills with an ability to effectively interact with all levels within an organization, as well as the ability to create and summarize detailed written reportsExcellent customer service and relationship management skills with the ability to maintain a high degree of confidentiality, diplomacy, tact and business acumen
What We Offer:
Compensation & Benefits:
Salaries for people entering this role typically fall between $63,400 and $73,300, commensurate with relevant experience and qualifications and in alignment with internal equity. This role is also eligible for performance pay based on organizational performance and goal attainment.
Additionally, we offer medical, dental, and vision plans, disability, life insurance, parenting benefits, flexible spending account options, generous vacation time, referral bonuses, professional development, and a 403(b) plan. You can find more information about our benefits at https://ideapublicschools.org/careers/benefits/.
* IDEA may offer a relocation stipend to defray the cost of moving for this role, if applicable.
Application process:
Submit your application online through Jobvite. Please note that applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Learn more about IDEA
At IDEA the Staff Culture and Belonging Team uses our Core Values to promote human connection and a culture of integrity, respect, and belonging for all Team and Family members. Learn more about our Commitment to Core Values here: https://ideapublicschools.org/our-story/#core-values
IDEA Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex or disability, in admission or access to, or treatment of employment in its programs and activities. Any person having inquiries concerning the organization's compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI of Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504), or Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), may contact IDEA Human Resources at (956) 377-8000.