Detective Sergeant

California State University Northridge Police; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

California State University Northridge Police is seeking a Detective Sergeant to lead major investigations and provide critical threat assessment across campus safety operations. You will oversee complex cases, coordinate with internal teams and external partners, and ensure robust victim and witness support services while maintaining strict evidence handling and compliance standards.

The role requires extensive investigation experience, POST certification, and the ability to manage sensitive

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of criminal investigation techniques, evidence handling, and case development.
• Ability to coordinate sensitive investigations with multidisciplinary teams and agencies.
• Experience with threat assessment, victim support, and compliance with applicable laws.

Responsibilities

• Oversee major and sensitive criminal investigations as lead investigator in the Investigations Unit.
• Provide support for threat assessment cases including workplace violence and Title IX matters.
• Ensure victim and witness support services and referrals are consistently applied.
• Coordinate administrative functions: case/file management, indicators tracking, liaison with external agencies.
• Oversee evidence and property handling, crime scene processing, and surveillance/support operations.

Skills

Criminal investigations

Evidence handling

Case management

Interagency coordination

Threat assessment

Victim/witness support

Education

POST Certificate

Bachelor's degree preferred

Job description

Major Duties

Under the general direction of a commander, the Detective Sergeant focuses on investigative work across major and sensitive crimes, threat assessment, victim/witness support, and specialized coordination functions. The incumbent will be responsible for spanning evidence handling, case oversight, and collaboration with internal teams and external agencies to support safety and investigative outcomes.

• Conducts and oversees complex criminal investigations as the lead case investigator, handling major and special/sensitive crimes while coordinating investigative activities within the Investigations Unit.
• Provides investigative support for threat assessment cases, including workplace violence, mental health-related incidents, and Title IX matters, ensuring appropriate evaluation, response, and coordination.
• Ensures comprehensive victim and witness support services, including protective measures, resource referrals, and consistent application of victim assistance programs across all cases.
• Coordinates key administrative and operational functions, including case/file management, sex offender registrant tracking, VIP security, asset forfeiture programs, and liaison activities with external agencies and partners.
• Oversees evidence and property management, crime scene processing, and supports specialized operations such as surveillance, search warrants, interdepartmental collaboration, training, and policy compliance. Performs other duties as assigned.

*NOTE: To view the full position description, including all of the required qualifications, copy and paste this link into your browser: https://mycsun.box.com/s/n1f8rhi50tl95lljr0nxmfpjnw0n8cfl

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent. Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Equivalent to three years of law enforcement experience, in a sworn capacity, which would provide a reasonable expectation of success in this class. Six years of active law enforcement experience, in a sworn capacity, and two years of investigative experience preferred.
• Must be free of any felony convictions; have good moral character; meet pre-employment requirements, including physical exam, psychological exam, drug test, and pass a comprehensive POST background investigation.
• Completion of a POST Supervisory Program is desirable or must be completed within one year of appointment.
• Possess a valid POST Certificate of Eligibility or a POST Basic Certificate in good standing. California POST Intermediate certificate preferred.
• Eligible to be a peace officer in the State of California.
• Possession of a valid California Driver's License is required.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Extensive knowledge of criminal investigation techniques, including evidence collection and preservation, interview and interrogation methods, and case development strategies. Demonstrated ability to analyze complex incidents, apply legal standards, prepare search warrants and subpoenas, and coordinate investigative activities through to court proceedings.
• Proven ability to conduct and coordinate sensitive investigations involving mental health incidents, missing persons, juvenile matters, and Title IX cases. Skilled in surveillance and undercover operations, with the ability to plan and execute investigative actions while ensuring compliance with legal, procedural, and safety requirements.
• Comprehensive knowledge of threat assessment principles and violence risk evaluation, including workplace and domestic violence dynamics. Demonstrated ability to assess potential threats, conduct detailed investigations and interviews, and implement strategies to mitigate risks and enhance personal and community safety.
• Strong ability to coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including behavioral intervention groups, university services, and law enforcement units. Skilled in managing complex, sensitive situations, supporting stakeholders, and facilitating communication to address safety concerns, operational needs, and incident response effectively.