Student Conflict Resolution and Support Coordinator

George Mason University 
Student Conflict Resolution and Support Coordinator 

The George Mason University Office of Compliance, Diversity and Ethics (CDE) is seeking candidates for a Student Conflict Resolution and Support Coordinator position (part-time, 20-25 hours per week). George Mason University has a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff, and strongly encourages candidates to apply who will enrich Mason’s academic and culturally inclusive environment. 

Responsibilities:

The Student Conflict Resolution and Support Coordinator serves as a resource to ensure that student questions, concerns and complaints are heard and addressed appropriately within a timely manner; to help students understand university policies; and to explore options and/or assist with resolving issues that may affect students academically or personally. 

This position reports to the University Ethics Officer/Policy Manager with a dotted line to the Vice President for Compliance, Diversity and Ethics and will work closely with the Dean of Students, Provost’s Office, and colleagues from other key units within the university to provide service to students in need of support and information. 

The major functions of the position include providing informal assistance to students: acting as a source of information and referral; helping students build their skills in navigating university processes and procedures; aiding in answering questions regarding university policies, rules, regulations and procedures; conducting outreach and prevention activities to communicate options that are available to students; facilitate resolution of conflict between/among parties; and assisting in the resolution of concerns and critical situations. Resolution of concerns could include identifying possible solutions; acting as coach, trainer, mediator or facilitator; finding the appropriate person, department or office within the university to respond to questions or concerns; working with campus stakeholders to refine and simplify process that are problematic; and sharing information about college policies or resources. Other duties may be assigned. 

Dispute Resolution/Consultation and Referral:

• Provide impartial service to students; 
• Assist in interpreting university policies and navigating university procedures; 
• Provide assistance by clarifying issues and generating options for resolution; 
• Facilitate assessment of the pros and cons of possible options; 
• Maintain confidentiality (to the greatest extent possible) while conducting appropriate informal fact-finding in order to better understand an issue from all perspectives;
• Consult with managers/faculty to develop cooperative strategies for complaint resolution;
• Provide referrals to other resources, whenever possible and appropriate; 
• Follow-up to determine outcome and further need of assistance; 
• Facilitate resolution of conflict between/among parties; 
• Operate fairly, effectively and in a timely fashion. 

In the performance of duties, must maintain the highest levels of professionalism, integrity, and sound judgment and treat all people with dignity and respect. 

Required Qualifications:

• Earned Bachelor’s degree; 
• Experience working with people of diverse backgrounds and cultures; 
• Mediation/conflict resolution experience; 
• Demonstrated communication and problem-solving skills; 
• Proven customer service skills; 
• Significant experience working with students in an advisory, administrative or educational capacity;
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while also being a team player; 
• Experience working across disciplines or multiple departments/units; 
• Ability to maintain confidentiality (to the greatest extent possible, consistent with the law and with the well-being of the campus community) with sensitive student information;
• Must possess demonstrated communication and problem-solving skills, organizational knowledge and networking skills, conflict resolution skills, and integrity;
• Have outstanding communication skills and be able to communicate effectively with individuals at all levels of the university as well as with people of different cultures;
• Have excellent problem-solving skills and be able to gather information, organize, analyze it and as necessary, and help develop appropriate options and actions;
• Maintain a professional demeanor; 
• Have strong presentation skills; 
• Must be knowledgeable about the university, its structure, culture, policies and practices (or the ability to acquire that knowledge quickly);
• Have excellent networking skills, understand and participate in collaboration with others, and be able to establish and maintain broad contacts throughout the organization; and
• Thorough understanding of what leads to conflict, the nature of conflict, and methods for resolution. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• An advanced degree combined with relevant dispute resolution training; 
• Experience in higher education, knowledge of its structure, policies and practices;
• Prior student advising experience; and 
• Because this position handles confidential student information, individuals who are not George Mason University students are highly preferred. 

For full consideration, applicants must apply for position number WG8495 at http://jobs.gmu.edu by July 28, 2017; complete and submit the online application; and upload a resume, cover letter, and a list of three professional references with contact information. 

George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.