Civilian Traffic Investigator

City of Hendersonville • Hendersonville, NC

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Civilian Traffic Crash Investigator is a non-sworn public safety employee responsible for investigating non-injury motor vehicle crashes involving property damage only or does not require the issuance of a uniformed citation. The position responds to crash scenes, documents evidence, interviews involving parties and witnesses, prepares state-required crash reports, provides traffic control, assists stranded motorists, and supports the Police Department's traffic safety mission. This position operates under the authority granted by North Carolina General Statute §160A-499.6, which allows municipalities to employ Civilian Traffic Investigators. Investigators do not possess arrest powers and are not sworn by law enforcement officers. They work under the supervision of a Police Lieutenant within the patrol bureau.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED equivalent required.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle.
• DCI certification or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire date.
• Civilian Traffic Investigator certification through the North Carolina Justice Academy, or the ability to obtain prior to independent work.
• Successful completion of 4 weeks required field training with a certified law enforcement officer.
• Knowledge of North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 20.
• Knowledge of City of Hendersonville ordinances.
• Knowledge of city and department policies
• Ability to observe details of crash scenes and during interactions with individuals.
• Application of proper investigative techniques, including evidence collection, crash scene analysis, and report writing.
• Accurate maintenance of records of incidents, investigations, and other departmental functions using modern technology.
• Ability to prioritize tasks effectively and manage time efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Regular practice with safe driving techniques/practices.
• Ability to accurately measure distances and angles.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, to convey information effectively to diverse audiences.
• Communication, interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisors, and the public sufficient to exchange or convey information and receive work direction.
• Knowledge of the geographic area of the city may include important buildings and facilities.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with associates and the public.
• Ability to provide exceptional customer service.
• Ability to effectively and calmly deal with the public and vehicle owners in stressful situations.
• Ability to effectively and professionally communicate by explaining crash reporting procedures to involved parties.
• Ability to work alone in the field and investigate motor vehicle crashes.
• Ability to multitask while maintaining efficient time management skills.
• Ability to listen and understand directions, information, and ideas presented verbally or in writing.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.

Nice To Haves

• Associate degree preferred.
• Two years of public safety experience; OR Two years of insurance claims investigation experience; OR Two years of traffic enforcement or crash investigation experience; OR Experience preparing DMV-349 crash reports; OR Equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

• Responds to vehicle crashes, traffic hazards, stranded motorists, and disabled or abandoned vehicles.
• Completes all state, city, and Police Department required forms such as DMV-349.
• Provides traffic direction and control at traffic accident scenes, road closures, inoperative or damaged traffic control devices and other situations that require manual traffic direction.
• Monitors city roadways to assist disabled motorists and aid in the removal of abandoned vehicles that obstruct roadways.
• Assists with special events including but not limited to parades, fun runs, demonstrations, etc.
• Conduct preliminary investigations and filing reports.
• Work closely with Hendersonville Police Officers and other law enforcement agencies on incidents involving motor vehicle crashes.
• Provides care and maintenance of assigned vehicles, equipment, and facilities.
• Performs other related job duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED