Senior Investigator

Government of Alberta•Red Deer, AB

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Ministry of Affordability and Utilities is dedicated to keeping life affordable for Albertans by helping to lower the cost of everyday essentials, including utilities. The ministry also develops policies and administers programs that ensure Albertans across the province have access to affordable, safe, and reliable electricity and natural gas. The Senior Investigator reports to Manager(s) on the Rural Utilities Team and is responsible for independently conducting and leading complex investigations in accordance with legislative requirements, departmental policies, and established procedures. They must possess in-depth investigation experience and expert knowledge of investigation strategies. This position requires investigations and knowledge regarding applicable legislation/regulation/code related to rural utility association governance under the Acts and legislation and obligations of low-pressure gas distribution provided under the Rural Utilities Act and Gas Distribution Act to ensure compliance. The Senior Investigator works with minimal direct supervision and is responsible for managing complex investigations.

Requirements

University graduation in public administration, business, sciences, education, social sciences, legal Studies etc., or a related field, plus 4 years progressively responsible related experience.
Policy research and analysis.
Experience conducting investigations and/or utility experience.

Nice To Haves

Understanding of government regulatory frameworks.
Understanding of the Government of Alberta’s policy development cycle.
Experience in project coordination and tracking.
Experience in engaging, and facilitating discussions with, a variety of stakeholders.
Experience with utility cooperatives.

Responsibilities

Conduct timely, thorough, impartial, and evidence-based investigations under the Rural Utilities Act and Gas Distribution Act.
Plan and execute investigations by interviewing complainants, employees, board members, and other relevant parties; gathering, securing, and preserving evidence; and reviewing complex records and documentation.
Analyze evidence, legislation, and policy to prepare detailed, well-reasoned investigative reports that inform decisions by the Chief Officer and Director of Rural Utilities.
Manage a high-volume caseload of complex investigations, effectively prioritizing work to meet service standards and legislated timelines.
Act as Lead Investigator on complex or multi-investigator files, providing direction and oversight to ensure quality and consistency.
Work with investigators or officers in other ministries or with third-party contractors brought in to assist in conducting investigations.
Apply advanced investigative thinking, evaluative analysis, and sound judgment when addressing sensitive and high-risk complaints.
Interpret and apply applicable legislation, regulations, standards, and policies governing rural cooperative associations and low-pressure gas distributors.
Exercise discretion and professionalism when dealing with confidential, contentious, or emotionally charged matters involving multiple perspectives.
Prepare investigation documentation, briefing materials, and background information for managers and senior leadership.
Provide recommendations, reports, and presentations to Manager(s) of Rural Utilities.
Appear as a witness at hearings and legal proceedings, as required.
Ensure investigative findings are complete, defensible, and consistent to mitigate legal, reputational, and operational risks.
Liaise with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, including complainants, rural utility associations, low-pressure gas distributors, and external education and sector partners.
Respond to complainant inquiries professionally and in accordance with applicable legislation and regulatory standards.
Maintain constructive working relationships following inquiries or investigations to support ongoing oversight, education, and compliance.
Communicate complex investigative findings clearly and objectively to diverse audiences.
Play a critical role in maintaining public trust in oversight processes for rural utilities in Alberta.
Ensure investigations are conducted efficiently and effectively to avoid unnecessary delays, public criticism, or increased litigation risk.
Support accountability outcomes, including corrective actions, orders, or dissolution of associations, where warranted.
Act as the coordinator and contact for multi-agency or contracted investigations and will be responsible for the oversight of rural utilities and gas distribution investigations.