Complaint Investigator

Job Description and Duties

This is a reposting. If you previously submitted an application for this position, you do not need to reapply.

Under general supervision of the Associate Director of the Office of Dispute Resolution and the Education Administrator I of the Dispute Resolution Investigation Unit I of the Special Education Division, the Education Programs Consultant investigates complaints of potential special education violations. As part of the investigative process the consultant works collaboratively with colleagues from each of Dispute Resolution units to open complaints and provide technical assistance to colleagues and interest holders throughout California. The consultant also works with other division staff responsible for monitoring compliance. Travel may be required.

Reviews and analyzes complaint letters and requests and determines allegations of alleged violations of federal and state special education laws and regulations. As part of the investigation process reviews and analyzes evidence; contacts both complainant and local educational agency (LEA) staff; develops “request for information;” and completes an investigation report following required standard language and procedures which includes specific statements, findings of fact conclusions and corrective actions specific to each allegation within the required timelines.

Daily conducts second readings (reviews, analyzes, and edits) of colleagues’ investigation reports and provides feedback using second reading checklist within the required timelines.

Writes, reviews, and edits documents and electronic files, including reports and correspondence related to complaints; research, reviews, and analyzes relevant materials; and prepares written response and other inquiries by parents, advocates, LEA staff, and others. Reviews and analyzes reconsideration requests as necessary and writes response letters to requesters.

Research current educational issues pertaining to special education requirements/laws, stays current on educational trends and relevant changes related to special education and related services throughout California and the nation.

Bilingual, Spanish language with spoken and written fluency, preferred, with ability to pass Spanish language certification testing.

Personal Leave Program 2025

Effective July 1, 2025, the State of California implemented the Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025. This position is subject to PLP 2025 and will have a monthly base pay reduction of 3% in exchange for 5 hours of leave credits through June 2027. The salary range(s) shown on this job posting does not reflect the salary reduction.

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Working Conditions

TELEWORK OPTION

HYBRID

This position is headquartered in Sacramento and may be eligible for a hybrid telework schedule for eligible applicants residing in California. A hybrid telework schedule includes working remotely and physically reporting to the office.

Special Requirements

• The position(s) require(s) fluency in the Spanish language. If the State of California does not have a current record documenting your fluency in this language, you will be required to successfully pass an approved language fluency test prior to being hired.

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

• Ability to work independently & as a team member
• Knowledge of state and federal education laws, statutes, rules, policies, and procedures pertaining to special education; work experience with LEAs, school districts, & parents 
• Strong analytical, organizational, & problem-solving skills, skills
• Ability to establish effective working relationships and the ability to exercise tact, resourcefulness, and good judgement with all interest holders
• Ability to multi-task, exercise initiative, independence, research and evaluate complex issues and data, determine outcomes, present findings to support recommendations
• Strong effective written and oral communication
• Ability to handle unwelcome communications
• Ability to remain focused and unbiased while reading technical documents; and proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

Benefits

The State of California provides comprehensive benefits packages determined by the employee’s bargaining unit. Some of these benefits include:

· Medical benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance

· Paid holidays: 11 paid State holidays, 1 personal paid holiday, and 2 professional development days

·401(k) and 457(b) Plans (Savings Plus)

· Employee Assistance Program

· Commute Program

More benefit information can be found on CalHR’s website: Benefits Summary

Important Application Instructions

• How to Apply for state jobs:
• Electronic applications submitted through your CalCareer account are highly recommended.
• DO NOT include any confidential information on any documents you submit for this job vacancy. Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents includes, but is not limited to, your Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, age, student identification number, driver license (unless required), examination results, LEAP status, and marital status.
• Incomplete or late application packages will NOT be considered.
• For experience to be considered, your STD 678 (state application) must be complete and include dates, accurate hours per week, total time worked, duties and responsibilities, and contact names and phone numbers of supervisors. Applications that are submitted blank or with “see resume” in place of duties performed will be considered incomplete.
• For civil service classifications, do not use working titles.
• If you choose not to submit electronically and are mailing or dropping off your hard copy State Application (STD. 678), use the revised 06/2024 version.
• If you are using education to meet the minimum qualifications, you must submit a copy of your transcripts or diploma. Foreign transcripts must be accompanied by an academic credential evaluation. List of approved agencies:
• Please note that the CalCareer system will not allow you to make changes to your application once it is submitted.
• Candidates who reside outside of the State of California may be admitted to the job interview but must provide proof of residence in California prior to being eligible for appointment.
• For general information about getting a job with the state, please view the job series videos here: .

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
• Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
• Statement of Qualifications -

  Interested individuals MUST submit a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) with their application. Resumes, letters, and other materials do not take the place of the SOQ. The SOQ should have a title of “Statement of Qualifications, Your Name ,” be no more than 2 pages, no smaller than 12-point font, and address the following:

  • Please describe your qualifications and experience related to the Education Programs Consultant/Assistant position in the Dispute Resolution Investigation Unit I.