Investigator - Canine Division

Description

Duties Description

The NYS DOCCS Office of Special Investigations (OSI) is seeking qualified candidates for consideration to serve as a Canine Investigator (and handler) in the OSI Canine Division has highly trained Canines and proficient Canine Handlers to lawfully deter, detect and interdict narcotic smuggling; electronic devices; and otherwise enhance the safety of all employees, inmates, parolees, volunteers, visitors, and others within DOCCS’ system. The OSI Canine Division is charged with responding to any situation that may necessitate those specialized skills of the Canine Teams, which are comprised of a certified Canine Handler and Canine. These situations include, but are not limited to, illegal drug searches, sniffing vehicles in DOCCS’ parking lots, sniffing people, patrolling entry points or other areas of correctional facilities or Community Supervision offices, sniffing packages, searching for people, and otherwise assisting in OSI investigations as warranted.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

The NYS Department of Corrections and Community Supervision Office of Special Investigations (DOCCS OSI) is seeking qualified candidates to be considered for several openings across New York State as a Canine Investigator in one OSI’s Canine Division. OSI is seeking Canine Investigator candidates who meet the following minimum qualifications:

• Be able to pass the handler/canine physical performance test.
• Ability to prepare comprehensive and well written reports.
• Self-starter, self-disciplined, capable of performing with minimum supervision.
• Strong communication skills, interpersonal skills, and general law enforcement skills.
• Agreed to serve as a canine handler for a minimum of five years.
• Available for callouts during off-duty hours.
• Agree to provide a home environment for the proper care and supervision of the assigned Canine.
• Be available to attend a basic canine school once selected (approximately six weeks).
• Successfully complete the certification program and any additional required training.
  
  

Once selected, a Canine Handler candidate and Canine shall attend and successfully pass a canine certification program that may last at least six weeks and may require extended time away from home. The Canine Handler and Canine (Canine Team) must also complete a minimum of 192 hours of canine in-service training every year. Canine Teams must successfully complete a certification every three years by a certified DCJS canine examiner and successfully complete an OSI K9 certification program approved by the Deputy Commissioner/Chief every two years.

The additional minimum qualifications include two years’ investigative, law enforcement, or public safety experience; or a two-year associate degree or 60 college-level credits. Candidates should also have exhibited demonstrated leadership qualities. Knowledge of the subject matter and criminal justice or similar subject-matter studies are beneficial but not required. OSI investigative staff must possess, at a minimum, knowledge of the applicable laws, the highest levels of behavior including personal integrity and ethics; fairness; character; judgment; attitude; and respect for and ability to work with others inside and outside OSI. Appropriate licensure and certifications (including being or becoming a peace officer qualified to carry a firearm) are also required. The ability to travel is also necessary. OSI is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion by ensuring equal justice and opportunity without discrimination against any person based on their protected class. All applicants must pass background checks.

Additional Comments

Locations: All OSI Offices, namely Albany, Long Island City, Wallkill, Fishkill, Groveland, Dannemora, Utica, Rochester, Ogdensburg, or Buffalo. Office assignments are based upon the needs of OSI and the Department. Travel is required. This position is overtime eligible.