Investigator VI

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Brief Job Description:

The Sergeant/Investigator VI of the State Centers Investigations Team (SCIT) is selected by and reports to a Captain/Manager of the SCIT, Office of Inspector General. The position performs complex criminal investigations involving allegations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of residents in state-supported living centers and patients in state hospitals, and any other criminal allegations occurring at the state-supported living centers and state hospitals. Investigations are conducted under the general direction of a Lieutenant/Team Lead and managed through the SCIT Captain/ Manager/and Director. Investigations are conducted independently, requiring: evaluating, planning, and organizing, ability to quickly become familiar with program areas administered by the HHS enterprise agencies. Special investigations are conducted under the executive order of the Governor.

Investigations involve interviewing and taking statements; gathering and analyzing records; coordinating with other internal and external departments; may require the investigator to serve as lead on joint investigations; conducting surveillance and other covert investigations; preparing investigative reports; and testifying in judicial proceedings and/or administrative hearings. Investigations may result in referrals to management for consideration of adverse personnel actions or other executive-level responses, referrals to prosecuting authorities, and referrals to outside entities at the local, state, and federal levels. 50% Travel is required, and this is a commissioned peace officer position.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

EJF 1. Conducts investigations and examinations of alleged violations of laws, rules, and regulations. Identifies, contacts, and interviews potential suspects, witnesses, and complainants. Collects data and conducts field studies. Assists in performing undercover or surveillance work regarding suspected violators. (40%)

EJF 2. Evaluates, summarizes, and documents investigative findings. Prepares records, correspondence, and reports. Interacts and exchanges information with various state, local, or federal law enforcement organizations. (30%)

EJF 3. Examines, investigates, and analyzes the business activities of entities to ensure compliance with statutory standards and regulations. May review samples of completed investigations to ensure the consistent and correct application of policy, and monitors the quality and quantity of investigations conducted. (20%)

EJF 4. Assists in preparing cases for presentations at hearings or in court. Testifies and presents evidence in formal hearings or court proceedings. (10%)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of:

• Knowledge of investigative principle, techniques, and procedures.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
• Operational knowledge of court procedures, practices, rules of evidence, Texas Code of Criminal Procedure and Texas Penal Code.

Skill in:

• Skills in communicating effectively both orally and in writing.
• Skill in consistently producing thorough and complete investigations.
• Skills in the operation of technical equipment, detection devices.

Ability to:

• Ability to plan, organize and conduct investigations.
• Ability to interpret and apply laws and regulations.
• Ability to conduct interviews and gather facts.
• Ability to evaluate findings.
• Ability to prepare concise reports.
• Ability to testify in hearings and court proceedings.
• Ability to search databases and report applicable results
• Ability to work with and maintain confidential records, files and information.
• Ability to supervise the work of others.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

Applicant must possess a valid Texas Driver License by employment start date. Evidence of licensure as a peace officer in Texas, or the ability to be licensed as a peace officer by Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) by employment start date (Copy of license or proof of passing TCOLE examination required at time of interview). Ability to obtain TLETS certification required. Ability to demonstrate firearms proficiency and qualify under current TCOLE rules and regulations required.

Initial Screening Criteria:

Ten (10) years prior experience as a commissioned Peace Officer/Investigator OR Six (6) years prior experience as a commissioned Peace Officer/Investigator plus a four (4) year degree, from an accredited university. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university may substitute for up to four years of experience. There is a 50% travel requirement for this position.

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