Complaint & Appeals Specialist 3
State of Oregon, Salem, OR, United States
Initial Posting Date:
04/16/2026
Application Deadline: 04/23/2026
Agency: Oregon Department of Education
Salary Range: $5,842 - $8,967
Position Type: Employee
Position Title: Complaint & Appeals Specialist 3
Job Description:
Position Title:
Complaint & Appeals Specialist
Classification:
Compliance Specialist 3
Salary: $ 5,842.00 - $8,967.00 ($6,245.00 - $9,588.00 PERS)
Type : Permanent, Full-time, Non-Exempt
We are seeking a Complaint & Appeals Specialists to join our Government and Legal Affairs team at the Oregon Department of Education. We have multiple positions represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) available.
This position follows a hybrid work model. Onsite presence will be required when business or operational needs are best supported in person, such as collaboration, training, or work that requires access to onsite resources. Employees approved to work remotely must have a reliable and secure internet connection and maintain a professional work environment that supports productivity. While working remotely, employees are expected to maintain the same level of performance, responsiveness, communication, and availability as they would in the office.
What you will do!
ODE's Complaint and Appeals Specialists are responsible for handling complaints and appeals filed with the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) related to discrimination, restraint and seclusion, retaliation, religious entanglement, abbreviated school day programs under ORS 343.328, and Division 22 Standards. The role ensures that these complaints are managed effectively and in alignment with state and federal laws.
Typical duties include:
Complaint Assessment:
Determine whether a complaint or appeal falls within ODE's jurisdiction. Investigation Oversight: Define the scope of investigations, oversee their progress, and ensure compliance with procedural standards. Fact-Finding:
Identify relevant facts and credible evidence. Legal Analysis:
Identify legal issues, and violations of state and federal civil rights laws. Draft Orders: Write determination, including findings of fact, an explanation of the applicable legal authority, an application of the legal authority to the facts, and a final determination as to compliance. Corrective Action Design : Develop tailored corrective action plans to address identified deficiencies. Order Defense : Collaborate with the Department of Justice to defend agency decisions during judicial review. Collaboration:
Work closely with the Civil Rights Unit to ensure consistent interpretation and application of civil rights laws across ODE programs.
Please click here to view the full position description
If you would like to retain a copy of this job post or the PD linked above, please print a copy before submitting your application.
Once the job posting has closed, you will not be able to access the posting.
Minimum Qualifications:
ODE reviews resumes to determine whether applicants meet the minimum qualifications for this position. Please ensure your resume clearly reflects your relevant experience, as it will be used in place of detailed Workday work history for this agency-specific recruitment.
Five years' experience doing administrative research that included compiling and evaluating facts to recommend management action or decide compliance or eligibility with program guidelines and regulations. Three of the five years must be above the technical support level.
College-level course work may substitute for experience on the basis of 45-quarter units per year, up to a maximum of three years.
Preferred Skills & Knowledge (Desired Attributes) : A cover letter is required and is an important part of the application process. All application materials are reviewed by Human Resources, the Hiring Manager, and panel members throughout the recruitment process. Your cover letter is a key opportunity to speak directly to each decision-maker, highlight your skills and experience, and demonstrate how your qualifications align with the desired attributes for this role. Cover letter must be no more than two pages.
Proven ability to produce clear, concise, and well-structured written materials. Demonstrated expertise in drafting legal memoranda, briefs, opinions, or final orders. Strong understanding of federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination. Familiarity with systems such as public school district complaint processes, the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights complaint processes, or other discrimination resolution frameworks. Experience working effectively with diverse partners and community groups, demonstrating cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and maintain attention to detail throughout the complaint and appeals process.
We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job. We would encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet every one of the attributes listed.
Our Agency Mission and Office Culture:
The Oregon Department of Education's (ODE's) mission is to foster equity and excellence for every learner through collaboration with educators, partners, and communities. In fulfilling its mission, ODE has the vision to ensure all students have access to and benefit from a world-class, well-rounded, and equitable education system.
This position is located in the Complaint and Appeals Resolution Unit, which is part of the Government and Legal Affairs Team, in the Office of Relations, Management, and Support.
The Government and Legal Affairs Team works across the agency and with outside parties to carry out the education mission and goals of the State Board of Education and the priorities of the Governor as the Superintendent of Public Instruction. The team includes three work units: Civil Rights, Complaint and Appeals Resolution, and Reports and Investigations of Sexual Conduct.
The Complaint and Appeals Resolution Unit administers the agency's formal complaint resolution processes for discrimination in public education, restraint and seclusion, retaliation, religious entanglement, determinations of nonstandard status under ORS 343.328 (Abbreviated School Day Programs), and Division 22 standards.
Click this link to learn more about the unit
Oregon State provides amazing benefits! Follow the link below to learn more:
Oregon Job Opportunities : Benefits : State of Oregon
Application Resources & Information:
Eligible veterans and Oregon National Guard service members
(current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.
Be sure to submit your documentation prior to the close date of this posting
to have the preference considered. Your application materials will be used to determine salary based on a pay equity assessment. For further information, please visit the Pay Equity Project homepage. The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT) on the close date. After you submit your application, be sure to respond to the two questionnaires relating to public records requests and veterans' preference immediately following your submission. These questions are necessary to complete the application process. Please contact ode.jobs@ode.oregon.gov if you have any questions on the application process or need an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Please be sure to include the job requisition number. Oregon Job Opportunities: How to Apply (Internal & External) Understanding the State Application Process Resources for Job Seekers Additional Information:
The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%. Review the Classification and Compensation page for more details on the classification, or you may visit our website for information on the job offer process following pay equity. Future Vacancies:
This recruitment announcement will be used to establish a list of qualified candidates to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur. Visa Sponsorship:
The Oregon Department of Education does not offer visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. Applicants who require VISA sponsorship will not be considered at this time.
The Department of Education is an equal employment opportunity & affirmative action employer committed to a diverse workforce. The Department strives to create an inclusive environment that welcomes and values the diversity of the people we serve. We foster fairness, equity, and inclusion to create a workplace environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job. We would encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet every one of our qualifications listed. If you are unsure whether you meet the qualifications of this position, please feel free to contact us to discuss your application.
Come for a job. | Stay for a career. | Make a difference... for a lifetime!
Application Deadline: 04/23/2026
Agency: Oregon Department of Education
Salary Range: $5,842 - $8,967
Position Type: Employee
Position Title: Complaint & Appeals Specialist 3
Job Description:
Position Title:
Complaint & Appeals Specialist
Classification:
Compliance Specialist 3
Salary: $ 5,842.00 - $8,967.00 ($6,245.00 - $9,588.00 PERS)
Type : Permanent, Full-time, Non-Exempt
We are seeking a Complaint & Appeals Specialists to join our Government and Legal Affairs team at the Oregon Department of Education. We have multiple positions represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) available.
This position follows a hybrid work model. Onsite presence will be required when business or operational needs are best supported in person, such as collaboration, training, or work that requires access to onsite resources. Employees approved to work remotely must have a reliable and secure internet connection and maintain a professional work environment that supports productivity. While working remotely, employees are expected to maintain the same level of performance, responsiveness, communication, and availability as they would in the office.
What you will do!
ODE's Complaint and Appeals Specialists are responsible for handling complaints and appeals filed with the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) related to discrimination, restraint and seclusion, retaliation, religious entanglement, abbreviated school day programs under ORS 343.328, and Division 22 Standards. The role ensures that these complaints are managed effectively and in alignment with state and federal laws.
Typical duties include:
Complaint Assessment:
Determine whether a complaint or appeal falls within ODE's jurisdiction. Investigation Oversight: Define the scope of investigations, oversee their progress, and ensure compliance with procedural standards. Fact-Finding:
Identify relevant facts and credible evidence. Legal Analysis:
Identify legal issues, and violations of state and federal civil rights laws. Draft Orders: Write determination, including findings of fact, an explanation of the applicable legal authority, an application of the legal authority to the facts, and a final determination as to compliance. Corrective Action Design : Develop tailored corrective action plans to address identified deficiencies. Order Defense : Collaborate with the Department of Justice to defend agency decisions during judicial review. Collaboration:
Work closely with the Civil Rights Unit to ensure consistent interpretation and application of civil rights laws across ODE programs.
Please click here to view the full position description
If you would like to retain a copy of this job post or the PD linked above, please print a copy before submitting your application.
Once the job posting has closed, you will not be able to access the posting.
Minimum Qualifications:
ODE reviews resumes to determine whether applicants meet the minimum qualifications for this position. Please ensure your resume clearly reflects your relevant experience, as it will be used in place of detailed Workday work history for this agency-specific recruitment.
Five years' experience doing administrative research that included compiling and evaluating facts to recommend management action or decide compliance or eligibility with program guidelines and regulations. Three of the five years must be above the technical support level.
College-level course work may substitute for experience on the basis of 45-quarter units per year, up to a maximum of three years.
Preferred Skills & Knowledge (Desired Attributes) : A cover letter is required and is an important part of the application process. All application materials are reviewed by Human Resources, the Hiring Manager, and panel members throughout the recruitment process. Your cover letter is a key opportunity to speak directly to each decision-maker, highlight your skills and experience, and demonstrate how your qualifications align with the desired attributes for this role. Cover letter must be no more than two pages.
Proven ability to produce clear, concise, and well-structured written materials. Demonstrated expertise in drafting legal memoranda, briefs, opinions, or final orders. Strong understanding of federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination. Familiarity with systems such as public school district complaint processes, the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights complaint processes, or other discrimination resolution frameworks. Experience working effectively with diverse partners and community groups, demonstrating cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and maintain attention to detail throughout the complaint and appeals process.
We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job. We would encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet every one of the attributes listed.
Our Agency Mission and Office Culture:
The Oregon Department of Education's (ODE's) mission is to foster equity and excellence for every learner through collaboration with educators, partners, and communities. In fulfilling its mission, ODE has the vision to ensure all students have access to and benefit from a world-class, well-rounded, and equitable education system.
This position is located in the Complaint and Appeals Resolution Unit, which is part of the Government and Legal Affairs Team, in the Office of Relations, Management, and Support.
The Government and Legal Affairs Team works across the agency and with outside parties to carry out the education mission and goals of the State Board of Education and the priorities of the Governor as the Superintendent of Public Instruction. The team includes three work units: Civil Rights, Complaint and Appeals Resolution, and Reports and Investigations of Sexual Conduct.
The Complaint and Appeals Resolution Unit administers the agency's formal complaint resolution processes for discrimination in public education, restraint and seclusion, retaliation, religious entanglement, determinations of nonstandard status under ORS 343.328 (Abbreviated School Day Programs), and Division 22 standards.
Click this link to learn more about the unit
Oregon State provides amazing benefits! Follow the link below to learn more:
Oregon Job Opportunities : Benefits : State of Oregon
Application Resources & Information:
Eligible veterans and Oregon National Guard service members
(current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.
Be sure to submit your documentation prior to the close date of this posting
to have the preference considered. Your application materials will be used to determine salary based on a pay equity assessment. For further information, please visit the Pay Equity Project homepage. The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT) on the close date. After you submit your application, be sure to respond to the two questionnaires relating to public records requests and veterans' preference immediately following your submission. These questions are necessary to complete the application process. Please contact ode.jobs@ode.oregon.gov if you have any questions on the application process or need an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Please be sure to include the job requisition number. Oregon Job Opportunities: How to Apply (Internal & External) Understanding the State Application Process Resources for Job Seekers Additional Information:
The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%. Review the Classification and Compensation page for more details on the classification, or you may visit our website for information on the job offer process following pay equity. Future Vacancies:
This recruitment announcement will be used to establish a list of qualified candidates to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur. Visa Sponsorship:
The Oregon Department of Education does not offer visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. Applicants who require VISA sponsorship will not be considered at this time.
The Department of Education is an equal employment opportunity & affirmative action employer committed to a diverse workforce. The Department strives to create an inclusive environment that welcomes and values the diversity of the people we serve. We foster fairness, equity, and inclusion to create a workplace environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job. We would encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet every one of our qualifications listed. If you are unsure whether you meet the qualifications of this position, please feel free to contact us to discuss your application.
Come for a job. | Stay for a career. | Make a difference... for a lifetime!