CPI Special Investigator Trainee

Overview

Work involves investigating cases that are of a high profile or high-risk and may require a joint investigation with local law enforcement due to alleged criminal acts. Assists the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) Investigation Supervisors by providing consultation and assistance to the investigation of complex cases. Provide forensic investigation techniques and investigation skills. Accompanies DFPS staff on investigations and provides information on criminal statutes, law enforcement procedures, and legal issues when circumstances warrant. Provides feedback to DFPS staff on effective investigation techniques from a law enforcement perspective, may carry a small caseload within the unit, provides training to and serves as a consultant to DFPS staff. Interacts routinely with DFPS staff, supervisors, clients, law enforcement professionals, medical professionals, legal professionals and others involved in the investigative process. Attends civil and criminal court proceedings as required.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs)

• Counsels and trains DFPS staff on forensic interview skills and techniques.
• Identifies and provides for staff development and training needs in the area of forensic child abuse and neglect investigation to achieve and enhance quality performance of unit staff.
• Provides expert consultation to DFPS staff and the community on complex issues associated with forensic child abuse and neglect investigations.
• Conducts in-depth interviews to accurately obtain information to determine immediate or long-term risk of abuse or neglect; models advanced interviewing techniques for other workers.
• Assesses family dynamics and functioning to determine degree and type of agency intervention needed.
• Prepares and provides sufficient case documentation (including forms and narratives) to provide a complete and accurate record on cases, including legal documentation or testifying in court for all necessary court cases.
• Reviews cases identified by Child Safety Specialists for specific risk factors or assistance with forensic investigation techniques, in order to ensure staff develop and implement appropriate casework actions and case plans.
• Attends training and participates in professional development as required by agency and/or supervisor.
• Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations.
• Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity among coworkers and all work-related contacts.
• Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy.
• Develops and maintains communication and working relationships within and outside the agency, particularly with professionals associated with law enforcement investigations.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

Supervisor will determine appropriate knowledge, skills and abilities.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications

• Valid Texas Driver's License
• TCOLE Intermediate License, out of state Peace Officer license, Federal Law Enforcement Officer Certification or Military experience comparable to Texas Peace Officer.
• Preferred: A current, Licensed Texas Peace Officer or have been a licensed Peace Officer in the State of Texas in the past two years.
• TCOLE Advance or Master Peace Officer License or equivalent from an out of state law enforcement agency or the United States Military.
• Out of state law enforcement agency, Federal Law Enforcement Agency or United States Military licenses and certifications comparable to a Texas Peace Officer are acceptable.

Initial Criteria

• Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent.
• Five years as a TCOLE Licensed Peace Officer (or comparable out-of-state/military/federal certification).
• Three years as a TCOLE Licensed Peace Officer (or comparable out-of-state/military/federal certification), AND 2 years’ experience in DFPS Child Protection Investigations OR completion of DFPS Special Investigator training during previous DFPS employment.
• Experience acquired through military police or military criminal investigative service (e.g., Army MOS 31B/31D, Marine Corps 5811/5821, Navy MA, Air Force 3P0X1/7S0X1, or equivalent) will be considered qualifying experience for all the above criteria, where applicable.
• Preferred: 60 hours college credit; 2 years as a Detective/Investigator with multidisciplinary teams on child abuse/neglect or similar. Experience using forensic investigation skills (interviewing suspects, collecting evidence, obtaining statements, report writing).

Additional Information

• Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase in addition to the base salary. Applicants hired into an investigative position will receive this increase the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an investigative position to continue to receive the additional pay.
• This role requires frequent travel to homes and offices both within and outside your assigned region. Reliable transportation and a strong willingness to travel are essential, as you can expect to be on the road about 60% of the time. While much of your travel will be local, there will be instances—including last-minute situations—where you’ll need to go outside your assigned counties, sometimes with little notice. Some overnight travel is also required, especially during initial training held outside your area and as cases demand. Flexibility is critical, as our mission to protect the most vulnerable means you must be ready to serve clients wherever and whenever you are needed.
• Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.
• Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at dfpsmilvets@dfps.texas.gov with additional questions.
• Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver’s record check.
• This position may be filled at a CPI Senior Investigator Trainee or a CPI Senior Investigator III. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when determining the classification to be used for hire.