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<b>Description</b>
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<p>The Office of Public Counsel (also known as the Ombudsman's Office) works to promote good government. We value accountability, impartiality, curiosity, and integrity. The office is a division within the Nebraska Legislature charged with holding state government accountable through complaint handling and investigations, as well as championing transparency in government.<br> <br> The Deputy Public Counsel for Institutions serves as part of a diverse leadership team, takes on a leadership role within the organization, has a growth mindset, thrives on challenges, and enjoys problem-solving issues that may be complex. The deputy for institutions handles complaints, reviews, inspections, and investigations related to the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Centers, the Regional Centers, the Beatrice State Developmental Center, and the Nebraska Veterans' Homes.<br> <br> $71,520/annually<br> <br> 1225 L Street, Lincoln, NE<br> <br> <b>Interested parties should send a detailed cover letter outlining interest in the position, resume, and no more than 3 references to Julie L. Rogers, Public Counsel/Ombuds, ombud@leg.ne.gov or State Capitol, P.O. Box 94604, Lincoln, NE 68509-4604 (Email preferred). The position will be filled as soon as possible.</b></p>
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<b>Examples of Work</b>
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<p>The Deputy Public Counsel/Deputy Ombuds receives, investigates and responds to citizen complaints against and inquiries about all state administrative agencies, state institutions in particular. This may include: written and personal consultations with citizens, senators, and public officials; conducting hearings or other investigatory proceedings, issue analysis; researching laws, rules and regulations; performing field investigations of complaints; reviewing public records and documents; reviewing confidential records and documents; interviewing public officials, employees, contractors, and employees in connection with complaints and inquiries; and preparing letters, memoranda and reports concerning complaints, inquiries, legal guidance, and policy advice. The deputy regularly communicates and consults with staff on progress of cases and investigations and assists in directing office management and process.</p>
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<b>Qualifications / Requirements</b>
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<p>REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's degree. A graduate degree (mental health, public administration, or juris doctorate) is highly desirable. Six years of administrative or research experience in (preferably state) government. At least two years of previous experience must include supervisory responsibilities.<br> <br> The candidate for the deputy position must have strong analytical ability and possess sound judgment, excellent presentation skills, and superior written communication skills. The work not only demands attention to detail, but also requires an approach that is open-minded and flexible. Must be able to work effectively and efficiently in time-critical and sensitive situations. Must demonstrate strong initiative and should be able to work independently with modest oversight.</p>
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<b>Knowledge, Skills and Abilities</b>
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The Office of Public Counsel is looking for a team player who embraces challenges, persists in the face of adversity, learns from feedback, and finds inspiration in the success of others. In order to be successful as deputy, the candidate must have the ability to:
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<li>Communicate effectively with individuals at all levels of government as well as with people of diverse cultures and backgrounds, with those who may be in crisis, and with vulnerable people. Should maintain a professional demeanor when interacting with others. Must be able to establish positive contacts across state government and work with all staff.</li>
<li>Define and analyze (many times complex) issues as well as investigate and research problems</li>
<li>Interact well with a diverse group of people and remain impartial, listen, and understand the viewpoints of different individuals regardless of identity or circumstances.</li>
<li>Lead with integrity and honesty in the work. This is done by providing confidence that the Ombuds process deals with people fairly, effectively, and in a timely fashion. Must maintain confidentiality. The candidate should not be risk averse and should understand that this position may, on occasion, challenge the highest levels of state government in an effort to foster fair and just practices.</li>
<li>Direct, supervise and motivate staff; and</li>
<li>Possess knowledge of the structure and operation of local, state, and federal government; the structure and operation of the Nebraska Legislature and its divisions; the role and content of state statutory and regulatory provisions; and basic statutory and case law dealing with civil rights, civil commitment, public welfare, behavioral health, developmental disabilities, and other broad areas.</li>
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We offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life. Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation.
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<br> Check out all that the State of Nebraska has to offer! For more information on benefits currently offered to permanent teammates, please visit: https://statejobs.nebraska.gov/index.html#benefits
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