CPI Special Investigator Trainee

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Fort Stockton, TX

1d • 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. The CPI Special Investigator Trainee role involves investigating high-profile or high-risk cases, potentially requiring joint investigations with local law enforcement due to alleged criminal acts. The position assists DFPS Investigation Supervisors by providing consultation and assistance in complex cases, utilizing forensic investigation techniques and skills. The role involves accompanying 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

• 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.
• 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.
• Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver’s record check.
• State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies.
• As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files.
• DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents .

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