COMPLAINT INVESTIGATOR

Arizona Department of Administration • Phoenix, AZ

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires that the state education agency (SEA) have a state complaint system in place as part of the SEA's federally mandated general supervision requirement. The IDEA requires that a written report of the comprehensive investigation of alleged procedural violations of IDEA be completed, and any corrective action that results from the investigation be issued within 60 calendar days of the determination of sufficiency. The complaint investigator is vital in ensuring that a comprehensive investigation is conducted and a written report is issued within the federally mandated 60-day timeline. The complaint investigator conducts interviews (in person and/or by telephone), gathers and analyzes relevant factual documentation, determines compliance with federal and state special education requirements, prepares letters of findings, and develops comprehensive corrective action plans. Occasional in-state and rare out-of-state travel is required for this position. The Arizona Department of Education currently utilizes a hybrid work environment, with up to two days of remote work (contingent upon business needs). Candidates should apply with an ability and willingness to work in-office up to five days per week as business needs necessitate.

Requirements

• Current federal and state laws governing educational service delivery for students with disabilities
• Methods and procedures in the area of special education
• PEAs responsibilities to provide educational services to students with disabilities
• Current case law concerning individuals with disabilities
• Administrative structures and services provided by PEAs and state agencies working with individuals with disabilities
• A bachelor’s degree in special education or equivalent experience to substitute for the degree is required
• Write, communicate, and interview effectively
• Consult and advise professional educators, parents, and other members of the community
• Clarify and prioritize issues of concern relating to special education
• Make public presentations
• Conduct effective research
• Conduct complaint investigations
• Intermediate to advanced skills in using Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel
• Analyze situations and take effective action
• Act cooperatively with school officials (superintendents, directors of special education, principals, school psychologists, etc.) as well as parents and civic organizations

Nice To Haves

• Successful completion of a prescribed educational course of study in special education from an accredited university or college
• Prior experience in programs designed to deliver services and/or special education to students with disabilities
• Independent reading for expanding and enhancing job skill level
• Participation and interaction in professional workshops, seminars, conferences and training sessions
• Specific and/or specialized work experience in regular and special education admin

Responsibilities

• Investigate formal state administrative complaints filed against public education agencies (PEAs) by parents, professionals, groups, and other community members throughout the state alleging noncompliance with federal and/or state special education requirements.
• As part of the investigation of formal state administrative complaints, draft letters of finding outlining the facts, relevant federal and state law, and findings of compliance or noncompliance. Develop comprehensive corrective action plan if noncompliance is determined.
• Answer questions from public and PEAs, parents, and the general public concerning federal and state special education requirements.
• Read newsletters, journals, books, regulations, attorney general opinions, and laws relating to special education.
• Participate in regional conference calls in order to keep up-to-date on professional information and issues.
• Attend staff meetings as necessary.
• Participate in various department task teams, special projects, and in-service training as necessary to carry out the job.
• Other duties as assigned related to the position.

Benefits

• Affordable medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plans
• Top-ranked retirement and long-term disability plans
• Ten paid holidays per year
• Vacation time accrued at 4.00 hours bi-weekly for the first 3 years
• Sick time accrued at 3.70 hours bi-weekly
• Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child (pilot program).
• Deferred compensation plan
• Wellness plans

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level