Sergeant

Texas HHS Office of Inspector General; Abilene (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas HHS Office of Inspector General is seeking a Sergeant for the State Center Investigations Team (SCIT). The role conducts complex investigations involving abuse, neglect, and exploitation in state centers and hospitals.

Travel up to 50% and testimony in hearings or court are expected. Qualified candidates must be a commissioned peace officer, possess a Texas driver license, and be able to obtain TLETS and firearms qualification by start date.

Qualifications

• Ten years of experience as a commissioned Peace Officer/Investigator OR six years plus a four-year degree from an accredited university.
• Experience using Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Must possess a valid Texas Driver License by employment start date.
• Must possess a Texas commissioned peace officer license (TCOLE) by interview; ability to obtain TLETS by start date.
• Ability to demonstrate firearms proficiency and qualify under TCOLE rules by start date.

Responsibilities

• Conducts investigations and examinations of alleged violations; interviews potential suspects, witnesses, and complainants.
• Evaluates, summarizes, and documents investigative findings; prepares records and reports.
• Examines and analyzes business activities to ensure compliance; monitors quality of investigations.
• Assists in preparing cases for hearings or court; testifies in formal proceedings.
• Performs other duties to achieve the mission of the OIG; travels up to 50%.

Skills

Interviewing techniques

Criminal investigation

Report writing

Communication skills

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher

Job description

The Sergeant is a commissioned peace officer position selected by and reports to the Captain of the State Center Investigations Team (SCIT) within the Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG). The position performs complex criminal investigations involving allegations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of residents in state supported living centers and patients in state hospitals, and any other criminal allegations occurring at the state supported living centers and state hospitals. Investigations are conducted independently and require skills in evaluating, planning, and organizing, as well as quickly learning about the program areas managed by HHS agencies. Works under limited supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Investigations involve interviewing and taking statements; gathering and analyzing records; coordinating with other internal and external departments; may serve as lead on joint investigations; conducting surveillance and other covert investigations; preparing investigative reports; and testifying in judicial proceedings and/or administrative hearings. Investigations may result in referrals to management for consideration of adverse personnel actions or other executive level responses, referrals to prosecuting authorities, and referrals to outside entities at the local, state, and federal levels. 50% travel is required.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

EJF 1. Conducts investigations and examinations of alleged violations of laws, rules, and regulations. Identifies contacts, and interviews potential suspect, witnesses, and complainants. Collects data and conducts field studies. Assists in performing undercover or surveillance work regarding suspected violators. 40%

EJF 2. Evaluates, summarizes, and documents investigative findings. Prepares records, correspondence, and reports. Interacts and exchanges information with various state, local, or federal law enforcement organizations. 25%

EJF 3. Examines, investigates, and analyzes the business activities of entities to ensure compliance with statutory standards and regulations. May review samples of completed investigations to ensure the consistent and correct application of policy and monitors the quality and quantity of investigations conducted. 20%

EJF 4. Assists in preparing cases for presentations at hearings or in court. Testifies and presents evidence in formal hearings or court proceedings. 10%

EJF 5. Performs other duties necessary to achieve the mission of OIG. Keeps manager informed as required or as necessary. 5%

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of criminal investigative principles, techniques, and methodologies.
• Knowledge of agency goals, objectives, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures; state and federal statutes, rules, and regulations pertaining to law enforcement activities.
• Knowledge of criminal and civil court proceedings and rules of evidence.
• Skill in interviewing techniques.
• Skill in researching and interpreting complex rules and regulations.
• Skill in applying investigative techniques and procedures to assigned cases.
• Skill in the use of a computer and applicable software.
• Ability to use and care for firearms.
• Ability to conduct investigations.
• Ability to evaluate, analyze, and investigate allegations of wrongdoing.
• Ability to prepare investigative reports.
• Ability to interpret and apply applicable provisions of the Texas Penal Code, the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, and federal statutes pertaining to criminal investigations.
• Ability to interpret and apply Agency policies and procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

Applicant must possess a valid Texas Driver License by employment start date.

Applicant required to possess a Texas commissioned peace officer license by Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE); copy of license required at time of interview.

Ability to obtain TLETS certification by employment start date.

Ability to demonstrate firearms proficiency and qualify under current TCOLE rules and regulations by employment start date.

Initial Screening Criteria:

Ten years of experience as a commissioned Peace Officer/Investigator OR six (6) years of experience as a commissioned Peace Officer/Investigator plus a four (4) year degree, from an accredited university.

Experience using Microsoft Word and Excel.