Contractor - Complaint Investigator (Dispute Resolution Services)

Job Summary

The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) is seeking applications from individuals to serve as Formal Complaint Investigators.  

A formal complaint is a written signed complaint alleging the violation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and/or state special education rules. 

Essential Functions

Formal Complaint Investigators must be able to:

• Drive throughout the State of Georgia for on-site visits or in-person interviews, as needed;
• Communicate verbally and in writing with GaDOE staff, school district personnel, and parents/complainants;
• Review and analyze volumes of documents that may include Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), eligibility reports, written correspondences, court decisions, and other student records; and
• Use computer-based programs to draft investigation plans, findings of facts, and conclusions of law. 

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university
• Demonstrated knowledge of IDEA regulations and Georgia special education rules
• Have a minimum of two years’ experience with special education dispute resolution
• Have a minimum of five years of administrative special education experience or legal practice in special education
• Have documented leadership skills as well as strong verbal and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Georgia professional educator certification in special education
• Doctoral degree in education or law

• Experience working with diverse cultures and backgrounds

   

Compensation

Between $1100-$1,500 per completed formal complaint investigation (based on the number of issues and complexity of the case) plus state-approved travel expenses.

Selection Process

A limited number of candidates from across the state of Georgia will be selected based on material submitted, input of a Review Committee and an interview process. Selected candidates will be provided additional details on the scope of the work, training requirements, and reimbursement.

To apply:  

Interested individuals should submit a letter of interest (not more than two pages) identifying:

• Why are you interested in being a Formal Complaint Investigator?
• Any potential conflicts of interest in serving as Formal Complaint Investigator.
• Personal, professional, and/or volunteer experience that might benefit serving as a Formal Complaint Investigator.
• Any diverse cultural background or experience you possess

• Language(s) spoken, other than English

   

Submit a current resume (not more than two pages) and a contact information (name, title, address, phone number, email address) for two professional references with first-hand knowledge of your written and verbal communication skills.

**Applications will not be accepted from individuals who are employees of GaDOE or local education agencies