Retaliation Complaint Investigator

About the role

Under the direction of the Deputy Labor Commissioner Supervisor (Senior Deputy) in the State Labor Commissioner's Office (LCO) Retaliation Complaint Investigation (RCI) unit, the Deputy Labor Commissioner I (DLC I) interviews witnesses, takes affidavits, collects evidence, and investigates claims to determine the extent of compliance with, and to resolve disputes arising under, State labor laws and Industrial Welfare Commission orders. The DLC I assesses and collects civil penalties or initiates civil or criminal action, and meets with employers, employees, and their representatives to advise them of, and to secure compliance with, state laws. The DLC I may inspect places of employment and employers' records to determine the extent of compliance with the provisions of laws under the jurisdiction of the LCO. Additionally, the incumbent is expected to advance their investigations through early engagement and resolution of retaliation claims through restorative strategies. Further, the incumbent will collaborate with other programs and stakeholders to advance industry-specific early engagement and restorative strategies through a trauma‑informed lens.

Responsibilities

• Interview witnesses and take affidavits
• Collect evidence and investigate claims
• Assess and collect civil penalties or initiate civil or criminal action
• Meet with employers, employees, and representatives to advise and secure compliance with state laws
• Inspect places of employment and employers' records for compliance
• Advance investigations through early engagement and resolution of retaliation claims using restorative strategies
• Collaborate with other programs and stakeholders to develop industry‑specific early engagement and restorative strategies through a trauma‑informed lens

Qualifications

• Must have taken the Deputy Labor Commissioner I examination
• Must be reachable on an employment list, have transfer eligibility, or have reinstatement eligibility

Working Conditions

This position is located in San Diego. The incumbent will spend most of the time working both remotely and at their assigned District office, with occasional travel to other offices. The District Office is an air‑conditioned office building with natural and artificial lighting, and standard office equipment. Travel may be required.

Special Requirements

As part of the required application packet, candidates must complete a Statement of Qualifications. Responses should be typewritten using 12‑pt Arial font, 1.5‑line spacing and no more than 1 page total. Applications received without a statement of qualifications will not be considered.

Restorative Justice is a values‑based approach to addressing harm that centers repair, accountability, inclusion and dignity rather than punishment alone. In workplace contexts, restorative justice is often adapted to coexist with formal enforcement systems. Describe your experience in resolving workplace conflicts using a restorative justice‑based approach.