Addressing Grievances

Sometimes situations arise at work in which you feel that you have been mistreated or misunderstood. There are a number of different ways to follow up with any complaints or grievances that you may have in regards to fair treatment. In general, follow this order of contact:

1. Your supervisor
   Your supervisor can help you resolve workplace issues and should be your first line of contact. Discussions with your supervisor can often solve problems that may develop and often lead to a better working relationship.
2. Your Human Resources manager
   HR managers are available to assist employees and supervisors in resolving workplace issues and conflicts. Since open communication facilitates fair treatment, you are encouraged to ask questions and to offer opinions and suggestions. To initiate contact with an HR manager, call Human Resources at 412-268-3386.
   
3. The university ombudsman
   In the event that the HR manager and the individuals involved cannot reach consensus on a work-related issue, the university ombudsman is available to consult with you. The ombudsman's role is to hear complaints, help clarify issues and suggest possible solutions to work-related problems. The ombudsman coordinates formal grievance procedures and the staff grievance panel, which will make the final decision if necessary. Contact Ombudsman Everett Tademy at et19@andrew.cmu.edu or 412-268-1018.

The Staff Council Grievance Committee provides information to staff members who think they may have a grievance. Its purpose is to assist in a fair grievance process—endorsing neither the grievant nor the university. You may also contact LifeWorks for support while coping with a workplace issue or conflict.

Sexual Harassment

Carnegie Mellon University is committed to maintaining a learning and work environment free from sexual harassment. All members of the Carnegie Mellon community are asked to complete the Preventing Workplace Harassment online training to learn to identify the behaviors that may be offensive to others. Staff members who wish to file a complaint should refer to the university's Formal Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedure.