Deputy Independent Policing Auditor

Arlington County VA•Arlington, VA

About The Position

Arlington County is seeking a Deputy Independent Policing Auditor to support the County’s independent police oversight and accountability efforts. Reporting to the Independent Policing Auditor, this position evaluates and participates in investigations of public complaints to promote accountability, transparency, and public confidence in law enforcement through findings and recommendations. The Deputy Independent Policing Auditor also serves as a professional staff liaison to the Community Oversight Board (COB), providing research, analysis, and recommendations to support the Board’s work. The position assists with community outreach and public engagement initiatives designed to foster trust, transparency, and meaningful dialogue between the community and law enforcement. The role requires independent judgment, objectivity, discretion, and sound analytical skills when evaluating sensitive, complex, and often high-profile matters. The successful candidate will conduct reviews and audits of law enforcement policies, practices, training, operations, and outcomes; review complaints and participate in administrative investigations; analyze relevant data; prepare and present reports and recommendations; support the Community Oversight Board; and advise the Police Chief and County stakeholders. The position also serves as the Independent Policing Auditor in their absence. A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and significant professional experience in auditing, investigations, compliance, law enforcement oversight, or closely related work are required. A master’s degree, Juris Doctor, or other advanced degree and relevant experience are desirable. Work hours are generally Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with flexibility and occasional work outside regular hours, including evenings and weekends, and availability to respond to time-sensitive matters as necessary. The recruitment is open until filled, with a preferred filling date of November 12, 2026.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Law, Social Sciences, Public Policy, or a related field.
Significant professional experience in auditing, investigations, compliance, law enforcement oversight, or closely related work.
Ability to exercise independent judgment, objectivity, and discretion when evaluating sensitive and complex matters.
Sound analytical skills and ability to translate findings into clear, well-supported recommendations.
Strong communication skills.
Ability to work effectively with community members, public officials, law enforcement personnel, and other stakeholders.
A pre-employment criminal records check will be conducted; it may include criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history checks.
For positions requiring it, completion of the Commonwealth of Virginia Statement of Economic Interest form upon acceptance of employment and annually thereafter.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree, Juris Doctor (JD), or other advanced degree in a related field.
Experience conducting administrative investigations, audits, or independent reviews involving law enforcement, public safety, civil rights, or governmental accountability.
Experience analyzing law enforcement policies, practices, use-of-force incidents, or other complex operational or compliance matters.
Experience developing clear, evidence-based findings and policy, training, or procedural recommendations.
Experience presenting complex or sensitive findings to public bodies, community stakeholders, senior officials, or law enforcement personnel.

Responsibilities

Conduct reviews and audits of law enforcement policies, practices, training, operations, and outcomes, including use-of-force incidents, and develop findings and recommendations for improvement.
Review complaints alleging police misconduct; participate in administrative investigations and interviews; and monitor investigations for thoroughness, accuracy, completeness, and timeliness.
Collect, analyze, and interpret data related to complaints, arrests, use of force, and other law enforcement activities to identify trends and inform policy, training, and accountability recommendations.
Prepare and present reports, analyses, investigative findings, audit results, and recommendations to the Community Oversight Board, County staff, and the public.
Provide professional staff support and guidance to the Community Oversight Board, including supporting public meetings, community outreach, education, and coordination with community groups, law enforcement personnel, and County staff.
Review disciplinary actions and develop or provide recommendations to the Police Chief concerning investigations, policies, training, practices, corrective actions, and other areas requiring attention.
Provide briefings and advice on significant or sensitive matters and coordinate investigations, audits, policy reviews, strategic priorities, recommendations, and other Office activities.
Serve as the Independent Policing Auditor in their absence.
Assist with community outreach and public engagement initiatives to foster trust, transparency, and meaningful dialogue between the community and law enforcement.