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Ombudsman Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Ombudsman information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$37K

$75.2K

$123.8K

How much do ombudsman jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for ombudsman in Rochester, NY is $75,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $101,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Ombudsman vs Customer Service Representative?

AspectOmbudsmanCustomer Service Representative
Required CredentialsVaries; often relevant experience or certifications in dispute resolution or public administrationHigh school diploma or equivalent; customer service training
Work EnvironmentPublic agencies, organizations handling complaints, or regulatory bodiesCall centers, retail, or corporate offices
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, non-profits, large corporationsRetail, telecommunications, finance, and service industries

While both roles involve addressing concerns, an Ombudsman typically handles complex disputes within organizations or agencies, often requiring specialized knowledge and experience. Customer Service Representatives focus on assisting customers with inquiries and issues, usually in a more transactional setting. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and expectations in the customer relations and dispute resolution fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ombudsman, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Ombudsman, you need expertise in conflict resolution, investigative techniques, and a background in law, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with case management systems, legal research databases, and relevant certifications such as Certified Organizational Ombudsman Practitioner (CO-OP) are valuable. Exceptional communication, impartiality, and active listening are crucial soft skills for building trust and resolving disputes fairly. These competencies are vital for ensuring transparency, protecting stakeholder rights, and promoting just outcomes in organizational or governmental settings.

Is being an ombudsman a good job?

Being an ombudsman is a professional role focused on resolving complaints and improving organizational practices, often requiring strong communication and problem-solving skills. The job can offer stability and the opportunity to make a positive impact, but workload and emotional demands vary depending on the organization. Certification and experience can enhance career prospects in this field.

How does an ombudsman typically collaborate with other departments to resolve complaints effectively?

An Ombudsman often works closely with various departments such as human resources, legal, and management to conduct impartial investigations and facilitate fair resolutions. This collaboration may involve gathering documentation, interviewing staff, and clarifying policies to ensure all perspectives are considered. Strong communication skills and a commitment to confidentiality are essential, as the Ombudsman serves as a neutral intermediary who helps bridge gaps and promote a positive organizational culture.

What does an ombudsman actually do?

An ombudsman is a neutral official who investigates and resolves complaints from individuals about organizations or institutions. They facilitate communication, recommend solutions, and ensure fair treatment, often working independently from the organization’s management. The role typically requires strong communication skills and knowledge of relevant policies or regulations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Ombudsman jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Ombudsman jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Ombudsman jobs in Rochester, NY? For Ombudsman jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ombudsman jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Ombudsman jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Ombudsman jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Ombudsman job openings:
Infographic showing various Ombudsman job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,215 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Long Term Care Ombudsman Lead

LIFESPAN OF GREATER ROCHESTER INC

Rochester, NY • Hybrid

$24/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Description

Lifespan is a trusted, mission-driven, regional nonprofit dedicated to helping older adults take on the challenges and opportunities of longer life. We are a great place to work where staff can grow personally and professionally in a supportive and inclusive environment.


STATUS: Full-time 37.5 hours a week

HOURLY RATE: Up to $24.00 per hour


SUMMARY

Supports daily operation of the NYS Long Term Care Ombudsman Program in Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates Counties. Implements strategic objectives to achieve the program's goals and coordinates the program's volunteer recruiting, training, performance evaluation, and recognition activities as assigned by the Program Manager. Advocates for and educates about long term care residents' rights in the region.


DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Operations & Decision-Making

Independently provides ombudsman program advocacy services to residents of facilities across multiple sites and counties

Applies Program and Agency policy and procedure requirements to resolve operational issues

Makes judgment calls that directly affect service delivery, compliance, and risk exposure

Serves as de facto operational lead when the Program Manager is unavailable


Supervision & Workforce Management

Recruits, trains, and evaluates volunteers

Provides corrective feedback, performance guidance, and remediation to volunteers

Ensures compliance with state certification, training, and documentation requirements for volunteers

Acts as first-line supervisor for day-to-day performance issues for volunteers


Compliance, Risk, and Audit Responsibility

Ensures program compliance with federal, state, and contract requirements

Prepares documentation for audits, monitoring visits, and corrective actions

Identifies systemic compliance risks and implements corrective measures

Interacts directly with state or external oversight entities


Stakeholder & External Relations

Represents the program to facilities, partners, state agencies, and community stakeholders

Resolves conflicts involving residents, families, and administrators

Provides authoritative guidance on program policy and residents' rights

Maintains ongoing working relationships critical to program credibility


Training, Systems, and Process Development

Trains others on policies, procedures, data systems, and compliance requirements

Identifies gaps in workflows and implements process improvements

Creates or refines tools, tracking systems, and documentation standards

Ensures consistency across staff/volunteers in multiple locations


Scope, Complexity, and Accountability

Manages complex, multi-county and multi-site program service delivery

Balances competing priorities between compliance and service delivery

Holds responsibility for outcomes that directly affect funding, reputation, and programmatic standing

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Bachelor's degree in social work or a related human services area. Master's degree a plus.
 

Experience

Minimum two years' experience in human services agency, health care or long-term care setting. 


PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Detail-oriented, organized, and able to multi-task in a busy environment.

Maintains composure under strict deadlines and difficult situations.

Able to work in a multi-cultural environment.

Has reliable transportation and can travel within region to assigned facilities.

Proficient working with Microsoft Office.


Lifespan offers great benefits including:

If working 37.5 hours, the following benefits are available

Vacation (21 days)

Sick (10 days)

Personal Time (3 Days)

Holidays (11)

Medical Insurance (3 options)

Dental Insurance (2 options)

Vision (2 options)

Flexible Spending Account

Health Savings Account with company contribution

403(b) Retirement Program

Hybrid Work Schedule may be available after successfully completing the probationary period

If working less than 37.5 hours, accrued time is pro-rated.


Salary/Hourly Rate

Multiple factors will be considered for salary/hourly determination including, years of relevant service, skills required, education, and internal equity,


Lifespan is an equal opportunity employer and, as such, affirms in policy and practice to recruit, hire, train, and promote, in all job classifications, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, gender identity/expression or any other protected characteristic. Lifespan will not discriminate against persons because of their disability, including disabled veterans, and will make reasonable accommodations for known physical and mental limitations of qualified employees and applicants with disabilities.

Deadline to Apply: Open until Filled