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University Ombudsman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Neiu

University Ombuds

Chicago, IL · On-site

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 ...

Boston University

ASSOCIATE OMBUDS, Ombudsman Office

Boston, MA · On-site +1

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

Boston University invites applications for the position of Associate Ombuds. The successful candidate for this position will report to the University Ombuds. The Office is also staffed by the Senior ...

The Pennsylvania State University

The Ombuds Office enhances stakeholder contributions to the university, contributes to the positive operation of units, and promotes a fair and respectful campus environment by working to enhance ...

Harvard University

Ombuds I

Cambridge, MA · Hybrid

The Harvard University Ombuds Office -located in Cambridge and Boston is part of Harvard University Central Administration. The Ombuds Office provides independent dispute resolution services to ...

Harvard University

Ombuds I

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$59/hr

The Harvard University Ombuds Office -located in Cambridge and Boston is part of Harvard University Central Administration. The Ombuds Office provides independent dispute resolution services to ...

East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging

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Long Term Care Ombudsman

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Required Education and Experience · A Bachelor's Degree from a four-year college or university. · ... Must be approved by State Ombudsman to be placed on the Representative Registry as a Certified ...

Apply Early

SPHS GROUP

Ombudsman

Charleroi, PA

Provides Ombudsman services to consumers living in nursing facilities, personal care homes ... Tuition discounts with partnering colleges and universities. * Career advancement opportunities.

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How much do university ombudsman jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for university 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.

Is being an ombudsman a good job?

A university ombudsman is a professional who helps students, faculty, and staff resolve conflicts and address concerns confidentially and informally. The role requires strong communication, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of institutional policies; it often involves a flexible schedule and independent work. Job satisfaction depends on personal interest in conflict resolution and the ability to handle sensitive issues effectively.

What does an ombudsman at a university do?

A university ombudsman serves as an impartial resource who helps students, faculty, and staff resolve conflicts, address concerns, and navigate university policies. They provide confidential, informal assistance and often facilitate communication between parties to promote fair and equitable solutions.

What are some typical challenges a University Ombudsman might face in their daily work?

University Ombudsmen often navigate highly sensitive and complex situations, such as interpersonal disputes, policy misunderstandings, or complaints involving faculty, staff, and students. One common challenge is maintaining strict neutrality and confidentiality while ensuring all parties feel heard and respected. Additionally, balancing multiple cases and educating the campus community about the ombuds office's role can be demanding. However, these challenges also provide opportunities to make a positive impact on campus culture and promote fair, respectful conflict resolution.

What is a University Ombudsman job?

A University Ombudsman is a neutral and confidential resource who assists students, faculty, and staff in resolving conflicts, addressing concerns, and navigating university policies. They provide informal guidance, mediate disputes, and advocate for fair processes without taking sides. The ombudsman ensures confidentiality, unless there is a risk of harm or legal obligation to disclose. Their goal is to promote fairness, improve communication, and foster a positive campus environment.

How do you get a job as a ombudsman?

To become a university ombudsman, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as law, conflict resolution, or higher education administration, along with strong communication and problem-solving skills. Relevant experience in student affairs, dispute resolution, or counseling can also be beneficial, and some positions may require a master's degree or certification in conflict management. Gaining familiarity with university policies and maintaining confidentiality are essential for success in this role.

What qualifications does an ombudsman need?

A university ombudsman typically needs a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as law, conflict resolution, or higher education administration. Experience in dispute resolution, strong communication skills, and knowledge of institutional policies are also important; some roles may prefer or require a master's degree or professional certification in conflict management or ombudsman practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the University Ombudsman position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a University Ombudsman, you typically need a background in conflict resolution or mediation, higher education administration, and an advanced degree in a relevant field such as law, psychology, or education. Familiarity with case management systems and formal training in dispute resolution or related certifications, such as from the International Ombudsman Association (IOA), are valuable. Exceptional communication, impartiality, empathy, and active listening are critical soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure the ombudsman can effectively mediate sensitive issues, foster trust, and maintain neutrality while supporting fair outcomes within the university community.

More about University Ombudsman jobs
What cities are hiring for University Ombudsman jobs? Cities with the most University Ombudsman job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of University Ombudsman jobs? The most popular types of University Ombudsman jobs are:
What states have the most University Ombudsman jobs? States with the most job openings for University Ombudsman jobs include:
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University Ombudsman jobs near you
Infographic showing various University Ombudsman job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,231 per year, or $36.6 per hour.
University Ombuds

University Ombuds

Northeastern Illinois University

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 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 our Employee Benefits page to learn more about our comprehensive benefits package including 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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