Investigator 3 - Legal Services

State of Washington•Thurston County – Olympia, WA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) seeks an Investigator 3 for the Office of Professional Practices. This full-time permanent position will investigate educator misconduct and "good moral character and personal fitness" as defined in WAC 181-86-013. This full-time position is based in Olympia, Washington. This position offers a balance of in-office collaboration and telework. While telework may be available more than 75% of workdays, this position is not fully remote. Investigators within the Office of Professional Practices are responsible for conducting complex, comprehensive, and objective investigations into allegations of misconduct by Washington certificated educators. In Washington state, licensed educators are bound by a Code of Conduct, found within WAC chapter 181-87, and by the requirements of RCW 28A.410.090 and WAC 181-86-013/014. Investigators in the Office of Professional Practices play a key role in ensuring students within the Washington K-12 education system have access to a safe learning environment. As an Investigator 3 within the Office of Professional Practices, you will plan and conduct fact-finding in complex complaints and cases involving alleged violations of the applicable statutes, rules, and professional standards applicable to the Washington K-12 education system. You will also provide technical assistance to the Assistant Director, Deputy Chief Legal Officer, and to schools, parents and other entities. You will be expected to gain expert knowledge on the standards of conduct within the Washington K-12 education system and utilize investigative techniques, best practices, and technology to ensure that OSPI investigations are handled in an appropriate and timely manner.

Requirements

Two (2) years’ experience as an Investigator II or five (5) years’ experience as an investigator with a state or federal administrative agency, criminal justice agency, or in a similar role with private business
Knowledge/experiences with state or federal regulations/statutes
Excellent communication skills including both verbal and written communications
Computer proficiency in using Microsoft Office Word, Excel, Outlook, search engines, and online databases
Experience producing high-quality written reports and documents
Ability to maintain effective communication with OSPI colleagues working remotely, as well as effective external communication
Ability to travel statewide, if necessary
Must have a valid driver’s license
Must reside in the state of Washington
Must be in the office a minimum of 2 days per month

Nice To Haves

Experience in conducting fact-finding interviews
Experience in investigating or adjudication of professional misconduct matters
Training in interview techniques and analysis
Experience within schools or school districts
Experience testifying in legal proceedings
Bachelor’s degree, in Business Administration, Public Administration, Criminal Justice or a related degree

Responsibilities

Independently; plans, organizes, and manages complex and sensitive investigative work; establishing goals and internal timelines
Identifies legal issues, reviews data, conducts interviews and on-site visits, and develops reports
Uses a full range of investigative skills and techniques, including but not limited to researching writing, interviewing, gathering, and preserving sufficient evidence to determine the facts of a case involving educator complaints and alleged violations of law
Consults with and provides recommendations to Assistant Director on appropriate actions related to investigations, including advising on scope of investigation, questions of evidence, and application of law and appropriate resolutions
Communicates timely, courteously, and effectively to complainants, respondents, witnesses, other programs, K-12 school institutions and other government agencies while documenting activities and contacts
Creates and maintains organized case files/reports with facts and identified evidence to complete an accurate, concise, and comprehensive investigation report to produce and implement effective corrective action
Collaborate with other OSPI departments on issues related to educator misconduct and other legal issues, including assisting with investigations, research, or other assignments for the Office of Legal Affairs division, as needed
Assists with the complaint intake process
Develops and disseminates accurate and professional technical assistance, guidance, and resources related to educator misconduct and the role of the OPP
Attend and testify in administrative hearings in a professional, polite, and direct manner