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Local Ombudsman Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

City of Lansing, MI

Assistant City Attorney

Lansing, MI · On-site

$70K - $105K/yr

Acts as an ombudsman screening complaints for individuals seeking warrants, letters, enforcement ... City of Lansing Teamsters Local 214 Fringe Benefits Health Insurance : The City of Lansing shall ...

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Local Ombudsman information

See Michigan salary details

$32.7K

$66.4K

$109.4K

How much do local ombudsman jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for local ombudsman in Michigan is $66,443.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,600.00 and $89,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Local Ombudsmen?

Local Ombudsmen are independent officials who investigate and address complaints about public services provided by local authorities, such as councils or social care providers. Their role is to ensure that individuals receive fair treatment and that their concerns are thoroughly examined. Local Ombudsmen provide a free and impartial service, aiming to resolve disputes and recommend improvements when poor service or maladministration is found. They act as a check on local government actions, helping to maintain public trust and accountability. Their decisions can lead to changes in policy or practice to benefit the wider community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Local Ombudsman, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Local Ombudsman, you need expertise in dispute resolution, knowledge of relevant laws and regulations, and often a degree in social work, law, or a related field. Familiarity with case management systems, public records databases, and sometimes certification through ombudsman or mediation organizations is typical. Outstanding interpersonal skills, impartiality, and strong communication are essential for effectively mediating conflicts and advocating for individuals. These competencies are vital for building trust, ensuring fair outcomes, and protecting the rights of those you serve.

Is being an ombudsman a good job?

Being a local ombudsman is a meaningful role that involves investigating and resolving complaints, often requiring strong communication and problem-solving skills. The job can offer job stability and the opportunity to serve the community, but it may also involve challenging interactions and administrative responsibilities.

What qualifications does an ombudsman need?

A local ombudsman typically needs a bachelor's degree in a related field such as public administration, social work, or law. Relevant experience in conflict resolution, strong communication skills, and knowledge of the community or organization are also important; some positions may require certification or training in mediation or ombudsman practices.

What can a local ombudsman do?

A local ombudsman investigates and resolves complaints from the public about government agencies, organizations, or service providers. They provide impartial assistance, facilitate communication, and help ensure accountability and fair treatment. The role often requires strong communication skills and knowledge of relevant policies or regulations.

How do you get a job as a ombudsman?

To become a local ombudsman, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in social work, public administration, or a related field, along with experience in advocacy or conflict resolution. Certification or training in ombudsman practices can enhance job prospects, and strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential. Employment often requires understanding of local regulations and the ability to handle sensitive issues independently.

What are some common challenges faced by Local Ombudsmen when advocating for residents in long-term care facilities?

Local Ombudsmen often encounter challenges such as navigating complex family dynamics, addressing concerns in facilities with limited resources, and ensuring residents' rights are respected while balancing facility policies. They may also face resistance from staff or administration when advocating for changes. Building trust with residents and maintaining confidentiality are critical, and Ombudsmen must employ strong communication and problem-solving skills to effectively resolve complaints and facilitate positive outcomes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Ombudsman jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Ombudsman jobs in Michigan are:
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Local Ombudsman jobs near you
Local Long Term Care Ombudsman (Part-time)

Local Long Term Care Ombudsman (Part-time)

Michigan Advocacy Program

Jackson, MI • On-site

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Salary: $25.48 per hour depending on experience

POSITION: The Michigan Elder Justice Initiative (MEJI) is seeking a part-time (20 hours/week) local long term care ombudsman to work in Jackson, Hillsdale, and Lenawee counties and serve as part of the Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (MLTCOP).

The work week includes frequent meetings with people who live in residential settings throughout the three county service area. This position has optional office space available in the Jackson Legal Services of South Central Michigan office. The office portion of the work can be done entirely remotely or through a hybrid arrangement. Candidates must reside in Jackson, Hillsdale, or Lenawee counties.


DESCRIPTION OF MEJI AND MLTCOP PROGRAM: MEJI advocates for and represents low-income older adults and people with disabilities on issues related to long term care, healthcare, benefits, elder abuse, and individual rights. MEJI houses the Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program; two local long term care ombudsmen; the MI Health Link and MI Choice, Community Transition Services and PACE Ombudsman Programs; and it engages in litigation and systemic advocacy efforts on behalf of vulnerable adults. Visitmeji.orgfor more information.

The Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (MLTCOP) advocates for the health, safety, well-being, and rights of residents in licensed nursing homes, homes for the aged, and adult foster care homes. Ombudsmen work at the direction of the resident and take action only with the residents consent. All ombudsmen services are provided free of charge.

MEJI is part of Michigan Statewide Advocacy Services (MSAS), a non-profit law firm providing free legal services to low-income individuals and older adults through several statewide programs. MSAS is administered by the Michigan Advocacy Program (MAP), which provides access to the justice system for those who need it the most through civil legal aid offices and statewide advocacy programs. MAPs mission is to advance the safety, independence, and economic stability of those most affected by poverty, racism, and other structurally oppressive systems by increasing access to justice and working for systemic solutions. Visitmiadvocacy.orgfor more information.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The local long term care ombudsman advocates for residents of licensed nursing homes, homes for the aged, and adult foster care homes in Jackson, Lenawee, and Hillsdalecounties. The duties of the local long term care ombudsman include:

  • Making routine facility visits
  • Interviewing residents
  • Providing information on long term care and residents rights to residents and the public
  • Negotiating with facility staff regarding resident concerns
  • Supporting resident and family councils
  • Collaborating with legal and state ombudsman staff
  • Maintaining case documentation
  • Participating in rigorous on-going training
  • Coordinate activities with the other Lansing area ombudsman

Individuals hired for this position will undergo rigorous training and supervised field work. Upon satisfactory completion of the training, new hires must be designated by the State Ombudsman as a local ombudsman to continue in this position.

QUALIFICATIONS:Successful applicants will possess stronginterpersonal, communication,problem-solving, advocacy, and time management skills as well as an ability to work independently and a desire to empower and support vulnerable individuals.Understanding the preferences, needs and concerns of older people and people with disabilities is essential to this job. Those skills can come from working as a caregiver, advocate, or service provider in a professional role or from life experiences. Experience in the field of aging, health care, and/or long term care and working with members of minority communities would be beneficial.

BENEFITS: This is a part-time position with an hourly rate starting at $25.48 depending on experience. This part-time position does not include benefits. Part-time staff earn vacation and sick time, and receive paid holidays, pro-rated to their part-time status. Part-time staff may participate in MAPs 401K retirement plan including employer match for eligible staff after 6 months of employment.

TO APPLY: Please complete this application and submit your resume and cover letter. You can also access the application by copying and pasting the following web address into your browser: https://miadvocacy.bamboohr.com/careers/306. The position is open until filled; applications received by June 15, 2026 will receive priority. If you have questions about the program or the position, please email MEJIs Director and Managing Attorney, Alison Hirschel at hirschel@meji.org.

MSAS/MEJI is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusionin the workplace.