FINDRS Investigator I

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

1d • Remote

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. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals.
FINDRS Investigator I - The Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) Family Inquiry Network/Database Research System (FINDRS) Investigator II position performs investigative work evaluating and processing diligent searches, locate, and research services to all DFPS whenever there is a legitimate business need to locate individuals. This position conducts, researches and evaluates searches for absent parents, relatives, persons of interest, and general information in accordance to DFPS policies and procedures. The position utilizes multiple databases and evaluates search results to positively identify the search subject, documents search findings, evaluates the findings in accordance with current program, and agency policies and procedures. The position reviews and prepares records, correspondence, and reports, and makes recommendations regarding diligent search determinations. This position serves as a liaison to DFPS staff to assist in providing information or technical assistance regarding diligent search programs, processes, policies, and requirements. The position interacts routinely with all areas of DFPS, including Program Support, Purchased Client Services, Information Technology, Program staff in CPS, APS and CPI, as well as HHSC and other state and federal agencies, service providers, and the general public. Works under moderate supervision with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgement.

Requirements

• Graduation from high school or equivalent.
• One-year experience in investigative procedures conducting searches, researching, and analyzing the results.
• Experience with the use of standard office equipment and software products including Microsoft Office Suite.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with internet databases utilized for locate investigations such as CLEAR, Accurint, and various internet web browsers, and sites preferred.
• Experience with Child Protective or Adult Investigations, preferred.

Responsibilities

• Researches complex diligent search reports to locate missing parents, relatives or other persons the agency has a legitimate business need to locate.
• Summarizes and documents FINDRS diligent search results which may include an affidavit or a word document which contains the results for requested information, family tree information, child support information, TIERS information, Social Media, Court of Continuing Jurisdiction and Paternity Registry requests and returned documents from DSHS, Department of Defense Certificates (active duty or not), photos, and any other information for each subject reviewed and communicates the diligent search findings by electronic mail to the requestor regarding identity and locating information for missing parents, relatives or other persons the agency has a legitimate business need to locate in accordance with applicable program and agency policies and procedures.
• Requests on behalf of Child Protection Services Court of Continuing Jurisdiction (CCJ) and Paternity Registry (PR) searches utilizing agency database and sending requests via inter agency mail to the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Office of Vital Statistics (VS).
• Provides technical support to DFPS staff by phone, email or in person regarding submission of FINDRS requests to the agency via the email, and status of FINDRS results.
• Receives FINDRS requests to locate and research a person or entity and enters subject’s personally identifying information (PII) into a variety of agency computerized systems and external databases.

Benefits

• 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members—saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs
• Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that’s time off you’re actually paid for)
• Optional dental, vision, and life insurance—at rates much lower than most private plans
• Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care
• Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment

What This Job Offers

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