Job Description
The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) is the independent state agency that enforces the Massachusetts anti-discrimination laws by investigating Discrimination Complaints to determine if the case may proceed to conciliation or a public hearing at the Commission. The MCAD also offers remedial and preventative training, and publishes resources online such as model policies, posters, and guides.
The MCAD is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to join the Housing Investigations Unit. As a valuable member of the Investigations team, the Compliance Officer performs routine investigative duties, with a focus on the investigation of discrimination claims in housing for the agency. Incumbent investigates complaints; obtains evidence and establishes facts concerning complaints and cases of alleged noncompliance with laws, rules and regulations; performs related work as required, and prepares dispositions recommending a finding to the investigating commissioner. The Incumbent also monitors various activities, services or functions relating to the prevention of housing discrimination.
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Duties and Responsibilities (these are a general summary and not all inclusive):
- Conducts intake by (1) interviewing pro se complainants and gathering pertinent facts for allegations of discrimination;(2) writing legally sufficient complaints of discrimination; (3) Enters required information into the agency's Case Management System (CMS) and the HUD Enforcement Management System (HEMS) as required for complaints dual filed with the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development; (4) referring jurisdictional and novel issues for attorney review; (5) making appropriate referrals in cases not within the Commission's jurisdiction.
- Develops investigative plans and fully investigates complaints of discrimination by using appropriate and available investigative tools including reviewing document filings, interviewing parties, interviewing witnesses, issuing interrogatories, requesting production of documents, conducting on-site visits, and holding investigative conferences.
- Manages a large investigative caseload.
- Completes investigations in a timely manner and keeps case files updated.
- Conducts investigative conferences as needed on assigned cases to allow the parties to present allegations and responses, to identify and request relevant evidence.
- Refers motions, jurisdictional and other legal issues arising during investigation to assigned attorney advisor.
- Drafts factually sound, well-reasoned investigative dispositions by summarizing allegations of discrimination and defenses, presenting relevant evidence, applying proper legal analysis, and making recommendations to the Investigating Commissioner of probable cause or lack of probable cause based on the obtained evidence and legal analysis.
- Identifies cases that are appropriate for early mediation and makes referrals to the mediation unit.
- Performs required administrative duties. Assists investigators and administrators in assigned office with identifying housing issues within intakes and with following correct procedures with respect to housing discrimination complaints.
- Provides excellent customer service and responds promptly to the public, parties, and constituents.
- Collaborates with the Director of Housing/Housing Unit Supervisor, attorney advisor(s), investigator(s), Commission Counsel, and/or the Deputy Chief or Chief of Investigations on any related investigative duties.
- Prepares and submits related reports to his or her supervisor, as needed.
- Attends required trainings.
- Performs all other related duties based on the Commission's needs.
Qualifications
This requisition will remain open until filled; however, first consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
Minimum Entrance Requirements: Applicants must have at least (A) two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, experience in investigatory, law enforcement or regulatory administration work, or (B) and equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.
Substitutions:
A Bachelor's or higher degree may be substituted for the required experience.
Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards! An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.