Assistant Director - Employee Mediation

Job Title

Position Title: Assistant Director, Employee Mediation

Location: Central Office, Office of Human Resources

Salary: $81,929 - $111,190

Reports to: Executive Director, Employee Relations

Bargaining Unit: N/A

Benefits Eligible: Yes

Telecommuting Eligibility: Eligible for telecommuting up to 40% (two days per week)

Position Summary:

The Assistant Director, Employee Mediation is responsible for leading and implementing dispute resolution and mediation services across the District. Under the supervision of the Executive Director, the Assistant Director, Professional Mediator serves as a neutral third party to facilitate the resolution of workplace conflicts involving employees. This role ensures alignment with District policies, collective bargaining agreements, and applicable federal, state, and local laws. The Assistant Director ¿ Professional Mediator develops systems, processes, and training to support proactive conflict resolution, maintain compliance, and promote a culture of collaboration and accountability across DPSCD.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in conflict resolution, human resources, law, education, public administration, social work, psychology, or a related field
• Master's degree or Juris Doctor preferred
• Minimum of 3-5 years of demonstrated, progressively responsible experience in conflict resolution, mediation, labor relations, employee relations, or dispute resolution

Essential Functions:

• Implement a standardized mediation and conflict resolution process aligned to District policies and expected timelines.
• Conduct mediations in a fair, impartial, and professional manner to resolve workplace disputes.
• Assess complaints, gather relevant documentation, and facilitate structured resolution processes.
• Prepare mediation summaries, agreements, and required documentation in compliance with District protocols.
• Provide consultation and coaching to principals, administrators, and staff regarding conflict resolution strategies.
• Participate in grievance processes, hearings, arbitrations, and investigations as required.
• Develop and deliver professional learning and training on mediation, conflict prevention, and effective communication.
• Design and maintain systems for tracking cases, analyzing data, and generating reports aligned with District goals.
• Identify trends and recommend systemic improvements to prevent recurring conflicts.
• Train and educate the workforce on conflict management and resolution.
• Collaborate with Human Resources, Labor Relations, Legal, and school leadership to ensure consistency of practice.
• Support implementation of restorative practices and proactive conflict resolution strategies across the District.
• Model strong judgment, professionalism, and ethical standards in all interactions.
• Maintain confidential records in accordance with federal, state, and District requirements.
• Supervise, coach, and evaluate assigned staff, if applicable.
• Fulfill other duties as assigned.

Security Clearance:

Internal Applicants: Current DPSCD employees may not be required to submit to a new background check unless the position requires additional clearance.

External Applicants: In alignment with Michigan law, all external candidates selected for hire must successfully complete a criminal background check.

Method of Application:

Applicants must apply through the Detroit Public Schools Community District online application system. Only applications submitted online will be considered. A resume is required for consideration. Successful candidates must submit official transcripts at the time of hire.

DPSCD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, religion, height, weight, citizenship, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected category in its programs and activities, including employment opportunities.