Position Number: 22179483
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: 2/12/26
ADE
Join the Arkansas Department of Education where each student is recognized as an individual. Through a cultivation of world-class educators, partnering with communities, and an influx of social supports, Arkansas Department of Education provides multi-level supports that help ensure students will receive a personalized education and develop a life-long love of learning.
Position Information
Job Series: Social Services Programs - Independent
Classification: Ombudsman
Class Code: SSP06I
Pay Grade: SGS0
Salary Range: $63,086 - $93,367
Job Summary
The Ombudsman serves as an independent advocate for individuals and communities by investigating complaints, resolving disputes, and ensuring fair and equitable treatment in government services. This position plays a critical role in promoting transparency, accountability, and responsiveness within state agencies, particularly in areas such as social services, healthcare, long-term care, and public assistance programs. The Ombudsman provides confidential, impartial, and neutral assistance to residents, working to identify systemic issues, recommend policy improvements, and mediate conflicts between citizens and government entities.
Primary Responsibilities
Investigate and resolve complaints related to state agency services, public benefits, and long-term care facilities.
Provide independent, impartial reviews of grievances brought by the public.
Mediate disputes between individuals and state agencies, working toward fair resolutions.
Advocate for the rights of vulnerable populations, ensuring their concerns are addressed.
Identify trends in complaints and recommend policy changes to improve service delivery.
Work with legislators, agency leadership, and community organizations to enhance transparency and accountability.
Develop best practices for handling grievances and service improvements.
Ensure that Arkansas laws and regulations governing public services are upheld and properly implemented.
Educate the public on their rights, available services, and grievance procedures.
Conduct public forums, workshops, and stakeholder meetings to raise awareness about the Ombudsman’s role.
Develop and distribute informational materials on state programs, policies, and complaint resolution processes.
Collaborate with nonprofits, advocacy groups, and legal aid organizations to support vulnerable communities.
Maintain accurate case records, documentation, and reports on complaints and resolutions.
Track data and trends to identify systemic issues affecting Arkansas residents.
Prepare and present annual reports to state leadership, highlighting concerns and recommendations.
Ensure all investigations and mediations comply with state and federal laws.
Knowledge and Skills
Knowledge of Arkansas laws, regulations, and administrative procedures related to social services, healthcare, and public programs.
Case investigation and mediation techniques.
Legal and regulatory compliance analysis.
Conflict resolution and negotiation strategies.
Ability to work with diverse populations.
Critical thinking and problem-solving to resolve disputes effectively.
Impartiality and neutrality to ensure fair and objective assessments.
Ability to handle sensitive or emotionally charged cases.
Minimum Qualifications
Five years of relevant work experience in social services, legal advocacy, government oversight, or conflict resolution.
Licensure/Certifications
N/A
OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.
