Chief Criminal Investigator

Job posting closes at 11:59 PM on 08/18/26.

About Us

At the First Judicial District Attorney’s Office, we are committed to seeking fair and just outcomes for all members of our community through ethical prosecution and alternative resolutions. We work collaboratively with law enforcement to ensure those who victimize our most vulnerable members of society are held accountable. Our prosecution teams work collaboratively to support victims and ensure their voice is heard throughout the criminal legal system process.

Our office is a nationally recognized leader in data transparency and data-driven practices in prosecution. We leverage technology, data analysis, innovative practices, and the use of alternative resolutions to ensure that justice is administered fairly and equitably. Our office culture is built around camaraderie and incorporating diverse perspectives in our day-to-day work. We are also committed to our team members’ wellbeing outside of the workplace – we emphasize the importance of work-life balance, provide numerous resources to support health and personal development, and offer a comprehensive benefits package including substantial paid time off, generous holiday schedules, work from home flexibility, and a dog-friendly office.

About the Role

The Chief Criminal Investigator works under the direction of the District Attorney for the First Judicial District, involving collaboration with prosecuting attorneys, victim advocates, and administrators internally, as well as all levels of the 29 law enforcement agencies within the First Judicial District. The Chief Investigator manages the Investigation Unit of the First Judicial District Attorney’s Office; supervises and directs criminal investigations, including Critical Incidents, and acts on behalf of the District Attorney as the lead law enforcement representative with internal and external contacts.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a high level of investigative knowledge and offer investigative assistance as needed in complex or specialized operational work, including coordination with local, state, and federal law enforcement.
• Maintain positive working relationships with outside law enforcement agencies.
• Review and discuss the progress of investigations with investigators, Deputy District Attorneys, and the grand jury.
• Conduct periodic meetings with investigative teams on issues of importance to the office and the Investigations Unit.
• Maintain proficiency on matters of ethical guidelines/canons applicable to the District Attorney, along with implementing policy and procedures, including general office policy.
• Manage the development and maintenance of unit training to ensure adherence to P.O.S.T. requirements and all other required certifications.
• Coordinate and maintain personal security of the District Attorney, staff, and premises, including coordination with the appropriate law enforcement agency.
• Oversee general fleet maintenance, vehicle assignments, and issued equipment.
• Serve as the point of contact to local law enforcement agencies in relation to officer-involved shootings.
• Perform administrative duties and day-to-day functions in support of the Investigations Unit.
• Handle calls from the public regarding alleged criminal activity and make appropriate determinations as to resolution.
• Perform any other duties, both supervisory and investigative, as assigned.
• Delegate responsibilities to Deputy Chief Investigators and/or other subordinates as needed.
• Provide direct supervision to Deputy Chief Investigators, Investigators, Administrative Assistant(s), and other assigned personnel within the Investigative Unit.
• Ensure appropriate staffing, allocate resources, and maintain a strong understanding/working knowledge of all subordinate performance standards, including making recommendations for hiring and termination of investigative personnel.
• Identify, analyze, and maintain statistical data or relevant facts necessary for budgetary preparation, grants, or other needs identified by the Administration.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree, or the equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities.
• Nine (9) years of reputable law enforcement experience, five (5) years of which assigned as a Detective or Investigator conducting criminal investigations, along with a minimum of two (2) years supervisory responsibility, or any equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Prior experience working in a District Attorney’s Office or Internal Affairs is preferred.
• Resident of Colorado.
• Possession of a valid Colorado Driver’s License.
• Certification as a Colorado Peace Officer and meeting all current requirements as defined by the Police Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.).
• Must be Colorado POST Certified.
• Must be able to lawfully purchase and carry a firearm under Federal and State laws.
• Applicants must pass a background check, fingerprinting, written testing, oral interviews, polygraph examination, psychological exam, and background investigation to include criminal, driving, reference, work, and credit history checks.
• Offer of employment contingent upon successful completion of criminal history, motor vehicle report, and education verification.

Skills

• Extensive knowledge of civil and criminal law enforcement principles, procedures, techniques, statutes, and ordinances applicable to the 1st Judicial District of Colorado.
• Considerable knowledge of general administrative principles.
• Ability to assign, direct, and evaluate the work of others.
• Ability to perform all peace officer-related duties, act/react in stressful and/or threatening situations, control unruly and resistive individuals, and operate vehicles, firearms, and other issued equipment during investigative procedures.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, subordinates, fellow workers, attorneys, court officials, witnesses, other law enforcement agencies, and the general public.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, and utilize effective interpersonal skills while respecting the diversity of others.

Qualifications

Candidates shall share completed work that demonstrates each of the following goals, presented in a PowerPoint format and submitted with the application:

• Teamwork & Interpersonal Skills: Support others in accomplishing their goals and objectives; builds trust, mutual respect, and cooperation among team; supports special assignments and opportunities; engages effectively with community and stakeholders; seeks and accepts input and feedback.
• Leadership: Demonstrates integrity in all facets of professional role; values transparency; takes responsibility; motivates others through clear communication; trains and develops those around them; varies communication for the individual, audience, or venue as needed.
• Decision Making: Excellent problem-solving and judgment; anticipates problems; effectively interprets policies and procedures; evaluates and identifies gaps in service or programming.
• Initiative & Execution: Evaluates and prioritizes resources appropriately; follows through to address identified needs.

Applicants must also submit a writing sample of a prior report or search warrant (5-15 pages preferred) with identifying information redacted.

Pay

Anticipated hire range: $122,000 - $178,000 USD annually. Compensation will be determined based on education, experience, and skills.

Benefits

Jefferson County offers a generous benefits package that supports your personal and professional life, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Retirement matching.
• Wellness programs.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Flexible schedules and remote work options.

Schedule

Scheduled weekly hours: 40.