TDCJ - Investigator I - Inmate Grievance

Texas Department Of Criminal Justice; Navasota (TX); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas Department Of Criminal Justice is seeking a Unit Grievance Investigator to administer the inmate grievance process at the unit level in accordance with policy, law, and timelines.

The UGI acts as an impartial fact-finder, investigates inmate complaints, prepares accurate responses, and maintains confidential records to ensure meaningful access to the process. The role involves daily interaction with inmates and staff, with strict deadlines and sensitive information handling.

Qualifications

• Investigate inmate grievances impartially and thoroughly.
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Adhere to timelines and agency policy in investigations.

Responsibilities

• Receive, review, and process Step 1 inmate grievances and determine processing criteria.
• Assign grievance numbers and manage through an automated system.
• Prioritize emergency grievances and notify unit officials promptly.
• Conduct complete investigations by interviewing staff and inmates as needed.
• Review inmate records such as medical, classification, and disciplinary files.
• Collect statements and supporting documentation; verify facts before findings.
• Prepare investigative summaries and evidence; document chronologies and recommendations.
• Manage multiple investigations and ensure timely processing.
• Maintain confidentiality throughout the grievance process.

Skills

Impartial investigator

Confidential handling

Legal/compliance

Job description

Job Duties

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 ensure 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.
• Reviewing inmate records i.e. medical records, classification records, disciplinary reports, use of force documentation, etc.
• Collect written statements, gather support 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, corrective action recommendations.
• Manage multiple investigations simultaneously.
• Ensure grievances are processed within established timeframes.
• Maintain confidentiality throughout the grievance process.

Fit

• GOOD fit: 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.
• GREAT fit: 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

Contact Information

Outside applicants will be required to submit to pre-employment drug testing as a condition of employment.

Questions concerning the applicationposition can be directed to: Tyra Phillips, Harmony Lopez, Hiring Manager OR Human Resources.

936-437-3422
936-437-3069

[e-mail]
[e-mail]

Important Note to the Candidate: 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 https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptionsClick on the occupational category for the position.

Additional MOS can be found at the State Auditor's Office, Military Crosswalk Guide. The Texas Veterans Commission provides helpful employment information. Go to: http://www.texasskillstowork.com, http://www.onetonline.org, https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/ or www.careeronestop.org for assistance translating your military experience and training courses into civilian job terms, qualifications/requirements and skill sets.

Applications submitted through Work in TexasWork In Texas (WIT) applicants must complete supplemental questions to be considered for the position.

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.

EEO Statement

The State of Texas is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age or disability in employment or the provision of services. You may make copies of this applicat