CPI Special Investigator Trainee

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Tyler, TX

4d • $4,749 - $5,921 • Onsite

About The Position

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. This is achieved through investigations, services, and referrals. This is a specialized position requiring previous experience as a police officer and is not an entry-level opportunity. Only candidates with a solid background in investigative roles within law enforcement will be considered. The work involves investigating high-profile or high-risk cases, which may require joint investigations with local law enforcement due to alleged criminal acts. The role assists DFPS Investigation Supervisors by providing consultation and assistance in complex cases, offering forensic investigation techniques and skills. The investigator accompanies DFPS staff on investigations, providing information on criminal statutes, law enforcement procedures, and legal issues. Feedback is provided to DFPS staff on effective investigation techniques from a law enforcement perspective. The role may involve carrying a small caseload, providing training, and serving as a consultant to DFPS staff. Interaction occurs routinely with DFPS staff, supervisors, clients, law enforcement professionals, medical professionals, legal professionals, and others involved in the investigative process. Attendance at civil and criminal court proceedings is required.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent.
• Five years as a TCOLE Licensed Peace Officer (or comparable out-of-state/military/federal certification).
• OR Three years as a TCOLE Licensed Peace Officer (or comparable out-of-state/military/federal certification), AND 2 years’ experience in DFPS Child Protection Investigations OR completion of DFPS Special Investigator training during previous DFPS employment.
• Experience acquired through military police or military criminal investigative service (e.g., Army MOS 31B/31D, Marine Corps 5811/5821, Navy MA, Air Force 3P0X1/7S0X1, or equivalent) will be considered qualifying experience for all the above criteria, where applicable.
• Valid Texas Driver's License
• TCOLE Intermediate License, out of state Peace Officer license, Federal Law Enforcement Officer Certification or Military experience comparable to Texas Peace Officer.
• Knowledge of Texas criminal and civil law relating to abuse and neglect of children.
• Knowledge of forensic interviewing techniques.
• Knowledge of normal child development and family dynamics, including problem areas of domestic violence, substance abuse, criminal activity.
• Knowledge of community resources, particularly within the law enforcement community, and their use for addressing child abuse and neglect problems.
• Skill in forensic interviewing of children and adults.
• Skill in determining risk of harm to children.
• Skill in applying crisis intervention techniques.
• Skill in investigating and resolving difficult child abuse or neglect cases.
• Skill in verbal and written communication.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, agency staff, law enforcement personnel and community stakeholders.
• Ability to evaluate investigation records in relation to the department standards for quality.
• Ability to analyze reports and produce comprehensive documents regarding findings.
• Ability to train staff in forensic interview techniques.

Nice To Haves

• A current, Licensed Texas Peace Officer or have been a licensed Peace Officer in the State of Texas in the past two years.
• TCOLE Advance or Master Peace Officer License or equivalent from an out of state law enforcement agency or the United States Military.
• Out of state law enforcement agency, Federal Law Enforcement Agency or United State Military licenses and certifications comparable to a Texas Peace Officer are acceptable.
• 60 hours college credit
• 2 years as a Detective/Investigator with multidisciplinary teams on child abuse/neglect or similar.
• Experience using forensic investigation skills (interviewing suspects, collecting evidence, obtaining statements, report writing).

Responsibilities

• Conducts specialized investigations of child abuse and neglect, as required by management.
• Serves as a resource and trainer to DFPS Staff on forensic interview skills and techniques.
• Identifies and provides for staff development and training needs in the area of forensic child abuse and neglect investigation to achieve and enhance quality performance of unit staff.
• Provides expert consultation to DFPS staff and the community on complex issues associated with forensic child abuse and neglect investigations.
• Conducts in-depth interviews to accurately obtain information to determine immediate or long-term risk of abuse or neglect; models advanced interviewing techniques for other workers.
• Assesses family dynamics and functioning to determine degree and type of agency intervention needed.
• Prepares and provides sufficient case documentation (including forms and narratives) to provide a complete and accurate record on cases, including legal documentation or testifying in court for all necessary court cases.
• Reviews cases identified by Child Safety Specialists for specific risk factors or assistance with forensic investigation techniques, in order to ensure staff develop and implement appropriate casework actions and case plans.
• Attends training and participates in professional development as required by agency and/or supervisor.
• Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations.
• Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity among coworkers and all work-related contacts.
• Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy.
• Develops and maintains communication and working relationships within and outside the agency, particularly with professionals associated with law enforcement investigations.

Benefits

• 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members
• Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service
• Options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
• Optional dental, vision, and life insurance
• Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care
• Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness

What This Job Offers

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