Lead Real Estate Investigator

This position is full-time, hybrid (in-office for training, then up to two telework days per week if eligibility requirements are met), and operates on an 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. schedule.

About the Role

The Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Real Estate, is seeking a seasoned real estate professional with a background in education, regulation, or investigations. This role involves investigating potential violations of the Real Estate Licensing and Practices Act, leading a team of investigators, and educating stakeholders. The position is based in Salt Lake City, Utah, and requires passing a criminal history background check. A valid driver’s license is required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed and consistent investigations of complaints to ensure compliance with statutes and rules.
• Receive, research, and respond to incoming questions or complaints; provide information on statutes and rules and facilitate resolutions.
• Manage a high-volume caseload with meticulous attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Act as an expert witness, providing testimony and recommendations in court cases or hearings.
• Oversee a team of investigators, including hiring, workload delegation, training, performance evaluation, and disciplinary actions.
• Facilitate communication and collaboration between the Chief Investigator and other departments.
• Create and deliver training materials, presentations, and newsletter articles for staff, management, licensees, and the public.
• Evaluate operational workflows and systems to ensure efficiency and adherence to policies.

Requirements

• Willingness to place real estate license (if applicable) on inactive status.
• Experience working in the real estate industry.
• Experience preparing reports, documentation, and communications.
• Background in roles requiring effective communication and interpersonal skills, especially in handling inquiries or complaints.
• Proven experience educating and training others.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel or their Google equivalents (Docs and Sheets).

Qualifications

Preference may be given to applicants with the following:

• Experience as a licensed real estate agent or broker, providing a solid understanding of industry practices and terminology.
• Investigative experience in law enforcement, compliance, fraud investigation, or regulatory oversight.
• Lead, supervisor, or manager experience.
• Experience conducting fact-finding interviews, demonstrating the ability to gather and analyze information effectively.
• Legal or regulatory experience, including work with legal documents, contracts, or in a regulatory environment.
• Project or case management experience, managing multiple cases or projects simultaneously.

Skills

• Exceptional communication and writing skills, capable of articulating complex technical findings into clear, professional reports.
• Confident public speaking, able to engage audiences in boardrooms or classrooms.
• Passion for supporting the real estate industry’s evolution and mentoring the next generation of professionals.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and objective decision-making.
• Comprehensive understanding of real estate markets and brokerage operations.

Pay

$35.47 - $45.89 hourly.

Benefits

• Job stability within a well-established organization.
• Opportunities for career growth and leadership development.
• Meaningful work contributing to community and organizational goals.
• Supportive work environment valuing cooperation and mutual support.
• Rich benefits package, generous paid time off, and strong work-life balance.