Investigator

Springfield Public Schools, MO • Springfield, MA

241d

About The Position

The Human Resources Department is seeking an extremely detail oriented Investigator to conduct comprehensive investigations into allegations of discrimination, harassment, hostile work environment and other violations of School Committee policies. The Investigator will also investigate allegations of misconduct by Springfield Public Schools employees and students. The Investigator will work with personnel staff, and state and local police through the Office of Safety and Security in the Springfield Public Schools. The investigation process involves preparing an investigation plan, conducting a risk assessment, conducting interviews with the complainant, alleged respondent, employees, and other relevant parties. The Investigator will review relevant evidence and documents and write the investigation report. The investigations must be completed in accordance with departmental guidelines.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree, or higher, in criminal justice, human resources, public policy or another related field from an accredited university.
• Required to be U.S. citizens, nationals, or lawful permanent residents.
• One to three years' experience in investigative work in the private or public sector.
• A clear National Service Criminal History Check and all other security requirements set forth by the school district in which you serve before the start of employment.

Nice To Haves

• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills in order to question information, negotiate complicated situations, arrive at fact-based conclusions, and make appropriate recommendations.
• Demonstrated knowledge of investigative procedures, including interview techniques and research skills.
• Demonstrated ability to create and implement investigative plans, including documenting the investigation process, drafting memorandums and presenting final reports.
• Understanding of the general structure of laws, regulations, ethics and conflict of interest.
• Ability to review and understand statutes, regulations, policies and procedures.
• High level of attention to detail, ability to manage competing priorities and problem solving to produce deliverables.
• Excellent writing and verbal skills, including the ability to communicate complex information in a clear and concise manner.
• Demonstrated effective interpersonal skills including the ability to listen well, relate to others and demonstrate sensitivity and respect for individuals.
• Experience working with diverse urban families, students and/or communities with an understanding of their unique needs.
• Knowledge of Springfield Public School District.
• Ability to establish and maintain constructive and cooperative interpersonal relationships with staff, peers, supervisors, or managers in the work unit and other departments, as well as with staff of outside entities and other individuals, as applicable to the essential duties and responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Plans, organizes, and conducts complete investigations into complaints of alleged discrimination, harassment, hostile work environment and other violations of School Committee policies.
• Interviews individuals for investigations including complainants, respondents, witnesses, professional staff, parents, children and employees.
• Identifies, collects, and analyzes information utilizing data relevant to investigations, demonstrating an understanding of information security and confidentiality issues relevant to an investigation.
• Assesses timelines for completing investigations.
• Drafts clear, accurate, and thorough investigatory reports concerning reported allegations and uses standard methodology, including interviews, findings, conclusions and recommendations.
• Remains current on collective bargaining agreements, School Committee policies, and state and federal guidelines.
• Collaborates with the SPS Office of Safety and Security, local law enforcement officials and the District Attorney's Office as necessary.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries and benefits.
• Numerous cutting-edge professional development opportunities for all staff.
• Support for teaching staff with mentors such as instructional leadership specialists and effective educator coaches.
• Career advancement opportunities and investment in 'Grow our Own' and educational pipeline programs.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree