TDCJ - Investigator I - Inmate Grievance

About the role

The Unit Grievance Investigator (UGI) is responsible for administering the inmate grievance process at the unit level in accordance with agency policy, state and federal law, and established timelines. The UGI serves as an impartial fact-finder who investigates inmate complaints, prepares accurate and thorough grievance responses, maintains confidential records, and ensures inmates have meaningful access to the grievance process. The UGI plays a critical role in identifying operational deficiencies, resolving concerns at the lowest level possible, ensuring due process, and reducing litigation through fair, objective, and timely investigations. This position requires daily interaction with inmates, frequent communication with staff at all organizational levels, extended periods of computer work, reviewing sensitive and confidential information, and working under strict deadlines. This position reports to the Regional Grievance Supervisor on a daily basis.

Responsibilities

• Receive, review, and process all Step 1 inmate grievances and determine whether grievances meet criteria for processing.
• Assign grievance numbers to each grievance through an automated database.
• Prioritize emergency grievances to ensure immediate notification to unit officials.
• Conduct complete, objective, and impartial investigations by interviewing staff involved as well as inmates when necessary.
• Review inmate records (e.g., medical records, classification records, disciplinary reports, use of force documentation).
• Collect written statements, gather supporting documentation, identify policy violations, and verify all facts before rendering findings.
• Prepare professional investigative documentation including detailed investigative summaries, chronological case notes, supporting evidence, interview documentation, and corrective action recommendations.
• Manage multiple investigations simultaneously.
• Ensure grievances are processed within established timeframes.
• Maintain confidentiality throughout the grievance process.

Qualifications

You'd be a GOOD fit if:

• Organized and meet deadlines.
• Communicates well with others.
• Works well independently and as part of a team.
• Maintains confidentiality and professionalism.
• Demonstrates reliability and accountability.

You'd be a GREAT fit if:

• Communicates effectively with all levels of staff.
• Maintains composure and professionalism in high-pressure situations.
• Embraces continuous learning and seeks opportunities to improve.
• Demonstrates initiative by identifying efficiencies, recommending improvements, and contributing to program success.

Additional information

• Travel: None — position may make day trips, but no overnight trips.
• Work site visits: No.
• Study material: No.
• Pre-Service Training Academy required: Yes.
• Hazardous Duty/Longevity Position: Hazardous Duty.
• Outside applicants will be required to submit to pre-employment drug testing as a condition of employment.

Contact information

Questions concerning this position can be directed to:
Tyra Phillips, Hiring Manager
936-437-3422
tyra.phillips@tdcj.texas.gov

Questions concerning the application process can be directed to:
Harmony Lopez, Human Resources
936-437-3069
hr.selectionsteam1@tdcj.texas.gov

Important notes

Military Preference: To receive military preference, you are required to provide proof by attaching the necessary documentation to this job application. Military Occupation Specialty Codes can be found at the State Auditor's Office (Job Descriptions) and the Military Crosswalk Guide. The Texas Veterans Commission provides helpful employment information at texasskillstowork.com, onetonline.org, SAO Job Descriptions, and careeronestop.org for assistance translating military experience and training into civilian job terms, qualifications, and skill sets.

Eligibility: An applicant must be eligible to work in the United States and must remain eligible, without sponsorship or any assurance of financial or other assistance from this agency, during the term of their employment.