CPI Special Investigator Trainee

Functional Title: CPI Special Investigator Trainee Job Title: CPI Special Investigator Train Agency: Dept of Family & Protective Services Department: Special Investigations Salary Range: $4,748.95 - $5,921.25 Monthly Shift: Day (First day) Travel: Up to 75% Location: Fort Stockton, TX (Other locations: Andrews, Brady, Midland, Odessa, Pecos, Van Horn) Overview This specialized position requires prior experience as a police officer and focuses on investigating high‑profile or high‑risk child abuse and neglect cases. The investigator provides forensic investigation expertise, training, and consultation to DFPS staff and partners, and may handle a small caseload within the unit. Responsibilities Conduct specialized investigations of child abuse and neglect. Serve as a resource and trainer to DFPS staff on forensic interview techniques. Identify and recommend staff development and training needs in forensic investigation. Provide expert consultation on complex forensic child abuse and neglect investigations. Conduct in‑depth interviews to determine immediate or long‑term risk of abuse or neglect. Assess family dynamics to determine required agency intervention. Prepare detailed case documentation, including narratives and legal forms, and testify in court as required. Review cases identified by Child Safety Specialists for risk factors or forensic assistance. Attend training and professional development as required by the agency. Perform other duties to maintain unit operations. Promote respect for cultural diversity among coworkers and contacts. Attend work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Develop and maintain communication with external professionals, especially law enforcement. Travel up to 75% of the time, including overnight travel for training or cases, typically 60% on the road. Essential Job Functions (EJFs) Conduct specialized investigations of child abuse and neglect. Serve as a trainer to DFPS staff on forensic interviewing. Identify training needs and provide staff development in forensic child abuse investigation. Provide expert consultation on complex forensic children abuse and neglect investigations. Conduct in‑depth interviews to assess risk of abuse or neglect. Assess family dynamics and recommend agency intervention. Prepare comprehensive case documentation and testify in court as needed. Review cases for risk factors or forensic assistance requirements. Participate in required training and professional development. Perform duties required to maintain unit operations. Promote respect for cultural diversity. Attend work regularly and maintain communication with internal and external partners. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs) Knowledge of Texas criminal and civil law related to child abuse and neglect. Knowledge of forensic interviewing techniques. Knowledge of normal child development and family dynamics (including domestic violence, substance abuse, criminal activity). Knowledge of community resources within the law enforcement community. Skill in forensic interviewing of children and adults. Skill in determining risk of harm to children. Skill in applying crisis intervention techniques. Skill in investigating and resolving difficult child abuse or neglect cases. Skill in verbal and written communication. Ability to establish effective working relationships with employees, agency staff, law enforcement personnel and community stakeholders. Ability to evaluate investigation records for quality standards. Ability to generate comprehensive reports and documents regarding findings. Ability to train staff in forensic interview techniques. Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications Valid Texas Driver’s License. TCOLE Intermediate License, out‑of‑state Peace Officer license, Federal Law Enforcement Officer Certification, or comparable military experience. Preferred: Current or recent Texas Peace Officer license or equivalent. Preferred: TCOLE Advance or Master Peace Officer License, or equivalent from an out‑of‑state agency or U.S. Military. Initial Criteria High school graduation or equivalent. Five years as a TCOLE Licensed Peace Officer (or comparable out‑of‑state/military/federal certification). Or three years as a TCOLE Licensed Peace Officer and two years’ experience in DFPS Child Protection Investigations, or completion of DFPS Special Investigator training during previous DFPS employment. Experience in military police or military criminal investigative service (e.g., Army MOS 31B/31D, Marine Corps 5811/5821, Navy MA, Air Force 3P0X1/7S0X1) is recognized as qualifying experience. Preferred: 60 hours college credit; 2 years as a Detective/Investigator with multidisciplinary teams on child abuse/neglect. Additional Information Eligible to receive a monthly increase of $416.66 after 120 days of tenure in an investigative position. Position may be filled as a CPI Senior Investigator Trainee or CPI Senior Investigator III; classification may vary based on education and experience. Equal Opportunity Statement The State of Texas is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected class. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic. #J-18808-Ljbffr