Policy Owner: Office of Human Resources

Policy Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline a process which seeks to provide an equitable resolution of complaints, misunderstandings, and issues for Florida Tech employees.

Policy Scope

This policy applies to all staff of Florida Tech including staff, student workers and temporary workers.

Policy Statement

Florida Tech seeks to provide an effective procedure for the solution of matters arising from the employment relationship or environment and to make every effort to resolve any grievance or complaint.

All employees are encouraged to discuss any concerns with their supervisor or unit head prior to utilizing any grievance/complaint procedures.

Each complaint/grievance filed will be afforded the appropriate attention to reach a resolution.

Procedures/Guidelines

When a complaint is received, the following steps may be taken:

• HR will meet with the complainant to obtain their initial statement.
• The complainant will be asked to identify their desired outcome (to escalate the concern or document as a matter of record). Complainants should understand that escalation of the concern may reveal their identity.
• HR notifies department management.
• HR strongly advocates for conflict resolutions to occur within the departmental unit.
• When concerns cannot be resolved within the departmental unit, HR may review the matter and attempt to resolve the concern. This review may include, but is not limited to, interviewing witnesses and any applicable subject matter experts.
• After a final recommendation is determined, HR contacts the appropriate administrative or academic head to deliver the recommendation for next steps.

HR notifies the complainant of the completion of their review.

Responsibilities

It is the responsibility of administrators, academic and supervisory personnel to inform and make information available to all employees concerning their right to file a grievance or complaint and their right to be protected from retaliation.

Supervisors are also responsible for ensuring that the employee is free from retaliation, coercion, and/or discrimination arising from the employee's filing of or intent to file a grievance or complaint.