Narcotics Criminal Investigator

State of Montana•Billings, MT

20h

About The Position

This Criminal Investigator works within the Narcotics Bureau of Montana’s Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI). The position coordinates and conducts investigations into allegations of felony violations of the Montana Criminal Codes, particularly narcotics-related offenses, and handles other crimes referred by external agencies. The investigator coordinates with multiple agencies and provides investigative, law-enforcement, and criminal-intelligence expertise to them. The role involves undercover and proactive work to develop cases, primarily concerning violations of state and federal dangerous drug laws, as well as other felony offenses. Narcotics Investigators respond to methamphetamine laboratories and provide drug-related training to audiences statewide.

Requirements

High school diploma.
Three years of criminal, investigative, or law-enforcement experience.
Current POST Law Enforcement Basic Certificate, or an equivalent certificate from another state.
Eligibility for the POST Law Enforcement Intermediate Certificate.
Valid driver’s license.
Firearms training is mandated for peace officer requirements and liability.
Extensive knowledge of law enforcement, investigative procedures, planning, report writing, multi-agency coordination, criminal procedures, evidence collection and rules, and criminal justice information and privacy/security regulations.
Knowledge and proficiency in the use of firearms.
Knowledge of procedures for writing and executing search warrants, investigative subpoenas, and forfeiture documents.
Skill in using complicated equipment needed for criminal investigations and conducting undercover investigations.
Ability to make correct, legal, and appropriate decisions in highly stressful situations; establish effective working relationships; communicate effectively verbally and in writing; and review case plans and information.
Skill in examining and documenting evidence relevant to prosecution.
Knowledge of applicable Montana laws and regulations, including criminal statutes, criminal procedure, rules of evidence, contraband seizures, criminal justice information and privacy/security, family services, and social services and institutions, as well as CFR Titles 18 and 42 and Administrative Rules of Montana.
Other combinations of education and experience may be considered case by case.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Criminal Justice, Sociology, Psychology, or a closely related field with criminal justice coursework from an accredited college or university.
Five years of investigative experience, including at least two years as a full-time investigator handling a variety of felony investigations comparable to those handled by a state agent.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and conduct investigations into allegations of felony violations of Montana Criminal Codes and crimes referred by external agencies.
Coordinate with multiple agencies and provide investigative, law-enforcement, and criminal-intelligence expertise.
Conduct undercover, proactive investigations, primarily involving state and federal dangerous drug laws and other felony offenses.
Respond to methamphetamine laboratories.
Provide drug-related training to audiences statewide.
Develop, conduct, and present complex, long-term criminal cases.
Plan investigations, prepare reports, coordinate activities across agencies and jurisdictions, and review case plans and information.
Examine and document evidence for its relevance to prosecution and its relationship to cases and suspects.
Prepare and present search warrants, investigative subpoenas, and forfeiture documents to prosecutors and judges for review and issuance.