Description:

Definition:
The Davenport Civil Rights Commission is the employer for this position.
The Senior Civil Rights Analyst performs advanced-level investigative and analytical work in the enforcement of civil rights laws under the jurisdiction of the Commission. This position is responsible for conducting complex investigations, evaluating evidence, and applying legal standards to determine findings of fact and law. The Analyst also serves as a subject-matter expert, advising the Commission on civil rights compliance, policy development, and emerging trends.

Under the direction of the Commission Director, this position performs advanced professional work involving the investigation and analysis of civil rights complaints. The role requires applying legal standards, evaluating evidence, and preparing recommendations to support the Commission's enforcement responsibilities. In addition to casework, the position contributes to policy development, compliance monitoring, and community education initiatives as assigned.

Note: This position may require occasional travel and varied hours. Employees are responsible for arranging transportation to and from assigned work areas

Examples of Duties:

Reviews and analyzes complaints filed with the Commission under local, state, and federal law to determine jurisdiction and applicable standards.
Conducts professional investigations of discrimination complaints by gathering, reviewing, and evaluating relevant records, testimony, and other evidence.
Applies legal standards and statutory requirements to the facts of each case in order to prepare findings and recommendations for the Commission.
Conducts structured interviews with complainants, respondents, and witnesses using culturally responsive and trauma-informed approaches.
Collects, organizes, and analyzes evidence to ensure accuracy, completeness, and reliability for use in administrative or judicial proceedings.
Drafts clear, well-reasoned reports summarizing facts, evidence, and application of legal standards.
Provides technical guidance, education, and support to parties and community members to ensure accessibility of civil rights processes.
Assists the Commission in hearings and proceedings by presenting investigative findings and serving as a subject-matter resource.

Key Responsibilities:

Conduct complex investigations of discrimination complaints in areas including employment, housing, education, credit, and public accommodations.
Interview complainants, respondents, and witnesses, and review relevant documentation and records.
Collect, evaluate, and analyze documentary, testimonial, and comparative evidence.
Apply statutes, regulations, and case law to investigative findings in order to prepare recommendations on probable cause.
Prepare clear, thorough, and well-reasoned written determinations for use in Commission proceedings.
Assist the Commission and Director with hearing preparation, including drafting briefs, presenting findings, and advising on case strategy.
Draft reports, policy recommendations, and training materials to improve civil rights compliance and Commission procedures.
Provide training and outreach to community groups, employers, and other stakeholders on civil rights protections and processes.
Mentor and guide junior staff on investigative best practices and legal analysis.
Monitor trends, analyze data, and provide recommendations for Commission policy initiatives.

Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications:

Juris Doctor or advanced degree in public policy, law, or related field preferred; or equivalent combination of education and professional investigative experience.
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in law, public policy, political science, social sciences, or a related field, and at least five years of progressively responsible experience in civil rights enforcement, legal compliance, or investigative work involving the application of statutes, regulations, and legal standards.
Minimum 6 years of progressively responsible experience in civil rights enforcement, investigation, or legal compliance.
Demonstrated expertise in applying statutes and legal standards to factual investigations.
Strong research, writing, and analytical skills.
Ability to communicate effectively with diverse communities using culturally responsive and trauma-informed approaches.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience providing expert guidance or advisory support to commissions, boards, or senior leadership.
Experience drafting complex investigative reports, policy briefs, or procedural recommendations.
Demonstrated ability to conduct culturally competent, trauma-informed investigations.
Advanced analytical, research, and critical thinking skills applied to complex civil rights issues.

Knowledge and Skills:
Knowledge of:

Civil rights and anti-discrimination laws, legal codes, administrative rules, and judicial processes at the local, state, and federal level.
Principles of equity, cultural competency, and accessibility in service delivery.
Research methods, data collection, and analysis applicable to investigative and compliance work.
Social, cultural, and historical factors influencing group behavior, community dynamics, and systemic inequities.
Professional communication standards, including effective writing, presentation, and public engagement practices.
Organizational operations, personnel practices, and program management principles.

Skill in:

Applying statutes, case law, and legal standards to complex factual situations.
Conducting professional interviews using trauma-informed and culturally responsive methods.
Identifying and addressing implicit bias in interactions with participants.
Analyzing and synthesizing large volumes of evidence to reach well-reasoned conclusions.
Drafting clear, comprehensive investigative reports and policy recommendations.
Communicating effectively in writing and orally with diverse audiences.
Exercising sound judgment and decision-making in sensitive or high-stakes situations.
Negotiating, mediating, and conciliating disputes to achieve resolution where appropriate.
Demonstrating active listening, social perceptiveness, and empathy to build trust with parties.
Applying critical thinking and complex problem-solving techniques to develop effective solutions.
Learning and adapting to new legal frameworks, technologies, and best practices.