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Ombudsman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Neiu

University Ombuds

Chicago, IL

Completion of the International Ombudsman Association Certification or IOAC Course Foundations of Organizational Ombudsman Practice within six months of the first day of University employment. A ...

Harvard University

Ombuds I

Cambridge, MA · Hybrid

... Ombudsman Practice course. Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to work well with individuals at all institutional levels, an ability to quickly develop a rapport ...

Cornell University

Assistant Ombuds

Ithaca, NY · On-site

Assistant Ombuds responsibilities include meeting with community members, conducting outreach and training, and facilitating conversations with students, staff and faculty facing conflict or ...

Harvard University

Ombuds I

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$59/hr

... Ombudsman Practice course. Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to work well with individuals at all institutional levels, an ability to quickly develop a rapport ...

The Pennsylvania State University

The Ombuds Office will develop and implement a structured process for selecting ombuds representatives across organizational units, oversee protocols and training for unit-level ombuds, and serve as ...

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Ombudsman information

See salary details

$37.5K

$76.2K

$125.5K

How much do ombudsman jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for ombudsman in the United States is $76,231.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $102,500.00 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, problem-solving, and neutrality. The job can offer job stability and the opportunity to make a positive impact, but workload and emotional demands vary by 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 qualifications does an ombudsman need?

An ombudsman typically needs a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as law, public administration, or social sciences. Experience in conflict resolution, strong communication skills, and knowledge of the organization or sector they serve are also important qualifications. Some roles may require certification or specialized training in mediation or dispute resolution.

What Is an Ombudsman?

An ombudsman, or ombudsperson, works for an organization, such as a school, office, government agency, or medical facility, to help mediate conflicts between parties. As an ombudsman, your duties are to listen, assess, and discuss issues that arise between employees, students, or other individuals. You may help guide parties through conflict resolution training or exercises, refer people to helpful resources, and be a facilitator whenever a formal dispute needs to be resolved in the workplace. You may also be responsible for identifying potential problem areas and making suggestions for how to improve organizational structures and policies.

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 they oversee. The role requires strong communication skills and knowledge of relevant policies or regulations.

What is an Ombudsman?

An Ombudsman is an independent official appointed to investigate and address complaints made by individuals against organizations, particularly within the public sector or large institutions. Their main role is to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability by resolving disputes and recommending improvements to policies or procedures. Ombudsmen act as neutral parties, providing confidential, impartial assistance to those who feel they have been treated unjustly. They do not have the power to enforce decisions but can make recommendations based on their findings. This role helps to promote trust in organizations and uphold the rights of individuals.

How do you get a job as an ombudsman?

To become an ombudsman, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as law, public administration, or social sciences, along with experience in conflict resolution, advocacy, or customer service. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of the organization or sector are essential, and some roles may require certification or specialized training in mediation or dispute resolution.
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Ombudsman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ombudsman job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,231 per year, or $36.6 per hour.

University Ombuds

Neiu

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Northeastern offers a rewarding working environment for our students and employees. Our faculty and staff are smart, dedicated people who work to create an excellent urban university experience for bright and motivated students.

Job Summary:

The University Ombuds is a designated impartial individual who informally and confidentially assists University employees and students in dealing with concerns or issues. The Ombuds helps employees and students by listening to concerns, clarifying issues, reviewing and developing options for managing or resolving their concerns, and providing information and referrals. The Ombuds also coaches' employees and students on oral and written communications related to employee and/or student matters and in handling conflicts; informally mediates between parties in conflict; facilitates meetings and discussions; and conducts conflict management related workshops. Additionally, the Ombuds is required to engage in outreach to employees and students about the role of the University Ombuds as well as to collaborate and develop good working relationships with administrators, faculty, staff, and students across the University. The University Ombuds supplements, but does not replace, the University's existing resources for employees and students. The Ombuds does not provide legal advice or psychological counseling. The Ombuds will not act as an advocate for any party in a dispute, nor will the Ombuds act as a representative for the University administration or parties who visit or consult the Ombuds Office. The Ombuds also does not conduct formal investigations, make decisions about complaints, establish or change policies, or serve as an agent for the University in receiving notices of complaints. The Ombuds, however, is required to report anonymous trend data and Ombuds Office use; provide early warning of new areas of organizational concern; can make recommendations to improve the University; and can act as an advocate for healthy and effective campus conflict resolution.

Job Description:

  • The Ombuds' major function is providing confidential, informal, and impartial assistance to University employees and students by listening to concerns, clarifying issues; reviewing and developing options for managing or resolving their concerns; and providing information and referrals.

  • Coaching employees and students on oral and written communications related to employee and/or student matters and on handling conflicts.

  • Informal mediation between employees and students in conflict; facilitating meetings and discussions.

  • Designing and conducting conflict management related workshops for the University community.

  • Engaging in regular outreach to employees and students about the role of the Ombuds as well as collaborating and developing good working relationships with administrators, faculty, staff, and students across the University.

  • Tracking trend data anonymously on the use of the Ombuds Office and concerns of employees and students; providing early warning of new areas of organizational concern and need for systemic improvements; and making recommendations to improve the University. Write Annual Report containing this information.

  • Serving as a campus resource for officials in formulating or modifying policy and procedures; identifying issues that may surface as a result of any gaps between stated University goals and University practices.

  • Develops, reviews, and updates Ombuds website materials such as service descriptions, FAQs, outreach resources, and annual reports, ensuring content is clear, accessible, and non-identifying.

  • Formulating, managing, and monitoring the overall goals, direction, programs and budget of the Ombuds Office. Supervise office staff or interns, if applicable.

  • Ensuring that the integrity of the Ombuds Office is maintained through independence, impartiality, confidentiality, fair processes, and timely attention to the resolution of issues, while demonstrating treatment of individuals with dignity and respect.

OTHER INFORMATION:

This is a University leadership position that requires regular in-person/on-campus attendance to meet the needs of the University and to foster strong and collaborative interactions across the University.

Minimal Qualifications:

  • Thirty hours of mediation training required. Completion of the International Ombudsman Association Certification or IOAC Course Foundations of Organizational Ombudsman Practice within six months of the first day of University employment. A minimum of a Masters or Professional Degree in related field.

  • Outstanding communication, organizational, listening, and coaching skills. Ability to communicate effectively with individuals at all levels within the University. Must be able to maintain confidentiality and remain impartial. A strong background knowledge/experience with individual and group behavior matters. Proven history in resolving conflicts in a diverse environment.

  • Demonstrated experience working in or supporting diverse communities, with the ability to navigate complex interpersonal and institutional dynamics in a higher-education environment while maintaining neutrality, cultural responsiveness, and respect for all parties.

  • Effective presentation and training skills. Ability to self-start and work independently. Must know and adhere to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice of the International Ombudsman Association.

This position requires a background check.

Salary Range

$115,000 - $125,000

Benefits

University employees may be eligible for a variety of State of Illinois benefits. These benefits are administered through the Illinois Department of Central Management Service (CMS). Please visit ourEmployee Benefitspage to learn more about our comprehensive benefits packageincluding health, dental, and vision benefits, sick and vacation days, and participation in the State Universities Retirement System.

Transcripts

Copies of unofficial transcripts are accepted; however, official transcripts for all earned degrees will be required of candidates selected for final interviews.

Northeastern Illinois University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and invites applications from Women, Minorities, Veterans and Persons with Disabilities, as well as other qualified individuals.Northeastern Illinois University's positions are contingent upon the University's receipt of its State of Illinois appropriation.

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