Idaho State University

University Ombuds, President's Office (2846)

Idaho State University  •  $70k - $75k/yr  •  Pocatello, ID (Onsite)  •  5 hours ago
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Job Description

Thank you for your interest in positions at Idaho State University. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by logging into your profile and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions, please review our frequently asked questions.

University Ombuds, President's Office (2846)

Pocatello - Main

NOT eligible for remote work, on-campus position

Priority Date: October 8, 2026

Institution Information

Idaho State University, established in 1901, is a Carnegie-classified doctoral research and teaching institution, with a culture built on trust, compassion, stability, and hope. ISU serves over 12,000 students in Pocatello, Meridian, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls. Students and faculty at ISU are leading the way in cutting-edge research and innovative solutions. We are proud to offer exceptional academics nestled in the grand, natural beauty of the West. We invite you to apply to be a part of our University community!

Job Description

Reporting to the President, the University Ombuds serves as a confidential, independent, impartial, and informal resource for faculty and staff to address concerns, resolve conflicts, and promote fair treatment across the university. The Ombuds provides guidance on university policies and procedures, facilitates communication, and assists in problem-solving while upholding principles of neutrality, confidentiality, and informality.

The Ombuds does not advocate for individuals but rather for fairness and impartial processes. The role serves as an alternative, informal channel for conflict resolution, separate from formal university procedures. The Ombuds also identifies systemic trends and offers recommendations to improve university policies and practices.

This position is not eligible for new visa sponsorship at this time. Candidates who already hold valid U.S. work authorization may be considered

Key Responsibilities

Confidential & Informal Conflict Resolution Support

Provides a safe, confidential space for individuals to discuss concerns, explore options, and seek resolution strategies.

Assists in informal dispute resolution through facilitated dialogue, conflict coaching, mediation, and shuttle diplomacy.

Helps individuals understand university policies, procedures, and available resources without engaging in formal processes.

Collaborates with Faculty/Staff Ombuds to provide mentorship and guidance, without formal oversight, related to the operationalization of International Ombuds Association (IOA) principles

Impartiality & Fair Process Advocacy

Maintains neutrality and impartiality, ensuring fairness and objective treatment for all university members.

Does not take sides, make decisions, or determine policy but instead promotes fair and ethical practices.

Identifies patterns of systemic concerns and provides feedback to university leadership while preserving confidentiality.

Independence & Structural Autonomy

Operates independently from university administration, reporting trends and recommendations without being part of formal processes.

Has direct access to the President while maintaining functional independence.

Does not participate in formal investigations, adjudications, or compliance-related functions in any capacity.

Data Collection & Reporting on Systemic Issues

Tracks non-identifiable trends to identify recurring issues affecting the university community.

Prepares annual reports with aggregated data and recommendations to enhance fairness and institutional effectiveness.

Maintains records in accordance with IOA best practices, ensuring no permanent documentation of confidential discussions.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in conflict resolution, law, psychology, social work, organizational leadership, higher education administration, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated professional experience in mediation, alternative dispute resolution (ADR), conflict coaching, or ombuds practice.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to foster trust, neutrality, and confidentiality.
  • Understanding of IOA Standards of Practice & Code of Ethics and commitment to its principles.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Professional certification in conflict resolution or mediation and/or prior ombuds experience.
  • Experience working in higher education, complex environments and highly emotional situations settings.
  • Experience in higher education or working directly with faculty.

Additional Information

You must submit your CV/resume, cover letter, and list of three (3) professional references, including current contact information. This position will remain open until it is filled; however, priority consideration will be given to applications received on or before October 8, 2026. Salary will be between $70,000 - $75,000 per year, commensurate with education and experience. Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision; life insurance; disability plan; employee assistance program (EAP); excellent retirement options and company contribution; and generous paid time off/sick leave accrual. All offers of employment are conditional pending the successful completion of a background investigation, provided by HireRight.

Note: Thank you for your interest in positions at Idaho State University. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by logging into your profile and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions, please review our frequently asked questions.

Posting Number: req2814

Type: Working 12 months per year

Position: Non-classified Staff

Division: Presidents Office

Idaho State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, including Veterans and individuals with disabilities.

The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email ada.coordinator@dhr.idaho.gov.

Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.

Idaho State University

About Idaho State University

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