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Civil Rights Specialist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

PeopleSuite Talent Solutions

HR Specialist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

The HR Specialist serves as a trusted resource for employees and managers, fostering a positive ... civil rights matters, and other employment-related reporting requirements. Compliance & Risk ...

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All JobsCivil Rights Specialist JobsCivil Rights Specialist Jobs in Iowa

Civil Rights Specialist information

See Iowa salary details

$19.3K

$50.6K

$91.1K

How much do civil rights specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil rights specialist in Iowa is $50,650.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,600.00 and $56,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a civil rights specialist?

Civil Rights Specialists are professionals who ensure that organizations comply with laws and regulations related to civil rights, such as preventing discrimination based on race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics. They investigate complaints, provide guidance on civil rights policies, and may conduct training for staff on compliance issues. Their work is vital in promoting equal opportunity and creating inclusive environments in workplaces, schools, and public institutions.

What is the difference between Civil Rights Specialist vs Equal Opportunity Officer?

AspectCivil Rights SpecialistEqual Opportunity Officer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; certifications in civil rights or complianceBachelor's degree; training in employment law and diversity
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, non-profits, legal settingsHR departments, government agencies, corporate compliance
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in civil rights enforcement and advocacyUsed in workplace diversity and equal employment opportunity

Both roles focus on promoting fair treatment and compliance with civil rights laws. A Civil Rights Specialist often works on legal compliance and advocacy, while an Equal Opportunity Officer typically manages workplace policies and diversity initiatives. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments but differ in specific focus areas within civil rights enforcement and employment practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a civil rights specialist?

To thrive as a Civil Rights Specialist, you need a thorough understanding of civil rights laws, regulatory compliance, and investigative techniques, often supported by a relevant degree in law, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with case management systems, legal research tools, and documentation software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and cultural sensitivity are essential soft skills for advocating and resolving complex rights-related issues. These skills ensure accurate investigations, foster equitable treatment, and support the enforcement of civil rights protections.

What are some common challenges a civil rights specialist may encounter when investigating discrimination complaints?

Civil Rights Specialists often face challenges such as navigating sensitive interpersonal dynamics, handling emotionally charged situations, and ensuring impartiality throughout investigations. They must balance thorough fact-finding with maintaining confidentiality and trust among all parties involved. Additionally, they may encounter resistance or lack of cooperation, requiring strong communication and conflict resolution skills to gather accurate information and foster a fair process.
What are popular job titles related to Civil Rights Specialist jobs in Iowa? For Civil Rights Specialist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Civil Rights Specialist jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Civil Rights Specialist jobs in Iowa are:
Civil Rights Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civil Rights Specialist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,650 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Civil Rights Intake Specialist

City of Davenport, IA

Davenport, IA • On-site

$60K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Salary : $60,905.73 - $79,897.79 Annually
Location : Davenport, IA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 1984
Department: Civil Rights
Division: Civil Rights
Opening Date: 11/03/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Union: Non-Bargaining
Definition
The Davenport Civil Rights Commission is the employer for this position.
Under the supervision of the Commission Director or Senior Civil Rights Analyst, the Civil Rights Intake Specialist provides professional support in the intake, documentation, and preliminary evaluation of civil rights complaints and mediations. This position serves as the first point of contact for community members and ensures complaints are properly screened, documented, and processed. The Specialist assists in the investigative process by compiling evidence, coordinating case flow, and supporting staff while maintaining culturally responsive and trauma-informed service delivery.
Examples Of Duties
Key Responsibilities:
  • Receive, review, and document civil rights complaints submitted to the Commission.
  • Conduct initial intake interviews with complainants to gather relevant information, clarify concerns, and determine eligibility for Commission investigation.
  • Screen complaints for jurisdictional eligibility and refer as appropriate to senior staff or other agencies.
  • Assist in coordinating investigations by organizing evidence, compiling case materials, and preparing summaries for senior staff.
  • Maintain and update case management systems and ensure accurate, confidential record-keeping.
  • Collect and organize documents, evidence, and other case materials for use by investigative staff.
  • Assist investigators and analysts in preparing materials for hearings or administrative proceedings.
  • Provide guidance and information to the public on civil rights processes, procedures, and available resources.
  • Support outreach and education initiatives by preparing materials or facilitating community workshops.
  • Monitor and track case progress to ensure timely handling and adherence to Commission policies.
  • Assist in analyzing case data to identify trends and inform Commission reporting or program development.
  • Participate in professional development activities to maintain knowledge of civil rights laws and culturally responsive practices.
  • Facilitate civil rights mediations, working with parties to schedule sessions and achieve equitable settlement resolutions.
  • Assist the Director and Commission staff in planning, updating procedures, and preparing for trainings or meetings.
  • Manage schedules, arrange appointments, and assist with administrative tasks as needed.
  • Communicate with the public to provide information, respond to questions, and guide parties through civil rights processes.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following:
  1. Education + Experience:
    • Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in political science, social sciences, public administration, law, or a related field, and at least two years of professional experience in civil rights investigations, compliance, legal support, or case management or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
  2. Relevant Experience:
    • At least three years of professional experience in civil rights, compliance, legal support, or case management demonstrating experience with confidentiality, documentation, interviewing, and intake processes.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree with two years of civil rights office work, mediation, or community dispute resolution experience.
  • Juris Doctorate (J.D.) preferred.
  • Bilingual skills (Spanish or Vietnamese) preferred.
  • Familiarity with civil rights laws, regulations, and investigative procedures.
  • Experience in customer service, community engagement, or trauma-informed interviewing.
  • Strong organizational, writing, and data management skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and maintain confidentiality.

Knowledge and Skills
Knowledge of:
  • Civil rights principles, laws, and complaint processes.
  • Local, state, and federal civil rights and equal opportunity legislation, policies, and programs.
  • Legal recourses available to complainants.
  • Mediation techniques and principles of dispute resolution.
  • Procedures for preparing and presenting civil rights complaints.
  • Professional communication and customer service principles.
  • Cultural competency, equity, and trauma-informed approaches in public service.
  • Case management systems, documentation practices, and basic data analysis.
  • Principles of professional communication and community engagement.
Skill in:
  • Conducting structured intake interviews and gathering relevant information.
  • Organizing and maintaining accurate and confidential records.
  • Communicating clearly and effectively in both writing and speaking with diverse audiences.
  • Applying basic analysis to identify trends, inconsistencies, or procedural gaps in complaints.
  • Collaborating effectively with senior staff, investigators, and community members.
  • Demonstrating empathy, active listening, and culturally responsive service.
  • Prioritizing tasks and managing workload in a professional environment.
  • Conducting mediations and facilitating resolution between parties.
  • Presenting statements of fact and law clearly, logically, and professionally in both oral and written form.
  • Analyzing situations and recommending appropriate courses of action.
  • Communicating effectively with diverse populations in a culturally responsive manner.
Note:
This position may require occasional travel and varied hours. Employees are responsible for arranging transportation to and from assigned work areas.
Benefits for Full-Time Employees:
  • Health insurance, including medical, dental, vision and prescription drug
  • Pension
  • 457 retirement plan contributions
  • Retirement health savings plan contributions
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Paid time off
  • Employee assistance program
  • Life insurance
  • Long-term disability

Apply