Criminal Investigator

If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference and you have a passion for making a difference in the lives of South Carolina's youth, consider joining the dedicated people of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ).

MISSION

It is the mission of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) to impact and transform young lives, strengthen families, and support safer communities through targeted prevention and rehabilitation.

JOB PURPOSE

Under general supervision by the Criminal Investigations Lieutenant, conducts criminal and administrative investigations as assigned, and assists in ensuring the overall safety of the agency.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Investigates both criminal and administrative cases. Obtains and develops evidence and secures information for use in appropriate proceedings by conducting interrogations of suspects, victims and witnesses. Prepares necessary investigative reports of factual findings. Maintains case records, including, but not limited to, hard case files. Ensures and maintains a high level of credibility, confidentiality, integrity and professionalism at all times. As directed by the Director of Public Safety and/or Inspector General confers with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies related to inquiries and requests for information; coordinates joint investigations. As required, works with various levels of court administrations as well as solicitor's offices on a statewide basis related to DJJ Investigations and prosecution of defendants/respondents, prepares accurate reports, testifies to related findings regarding criminal cases, thus must have concise, concrete and comprehensive oral and written skills. Reports and testifies to regulating boards concerning professional licenses when violations are alleged. Process minor crime scenes to collect evidence and/or property related to their case appropriately to include correct labeling and packaging for reference and identification purposes. Maintains the evidence in a manner that ensures security from loss, theft and/or contamination. Ensures proper chain of custody of all items along with applicable documentation. Ensures documentation, processing and tracking of evidence for submission to evidence room. Ensure Primary Evidence Technician is informed of evidence collection and handling to ensure Agency’s policy adherence. Assisting when directed in patrolling assigned areas to prevent crime and detect violations of law. Responds to complaints, reports of violations and requests for assistance. Performs general police work such as maintaining order during emergencies, participating in manhunts and transporting youth/subjects. Issues warnings and citations to violators. Attends training sessions to maintain Class I certification as prescribed by SC Code-Chapter 23. Maintains the ability to physically perform job duties as a Class I Law Enforcement Officer. Performs all other job-related duties as requested by the Inspector General or his or her designee.

STATE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

A high school diploma and experience performing patrol or investigative duties with a public law enforcement agency. A bachelor's degree may be substituted for the required law enforcement experience. Special Requirement Certification by the Law Enforcement Training Council in accordance with 23-23-40 of the Code of Laws of South Carolina 1976.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

General knowledge of investigative techniques and procedures. Knowledge of modern police administration and police work. Ability to coordinate with other law enforcement agencies. Class I certification. Under general supervision of the Criminal Investigations Lieutenant with annually scheduled performance reviews, formal conferences and meetings as required/requested in reviewing criminal cases assigned by the Criminal Investigations Director. Investigators will be expected to manage their time, use of resources and caseload to meet Unit's Standard Operating Procedures. Must be able to sit for prolonged periods be able to operate various office equipment and computers; be able to travel on an as needed basis; be able to work in an environment with incarcerated youth; be able to reach and bend. As required by the Inspector General or Criminal Investigations Director investigator is required to be on-call 24/7 unless on approved leave. Readily available to travel overnight by various means of transportation. Performs all duties to obtain/ maintain the Class I certification. This position performs job duties relating to the custody, control, transportation, or recapture of youths within the jurisdiction of the SCDJJ, and the employee may have direct and indirect contact with youth within DJJ jurisdiction. Training applicable will be provided.

PREFERRED AGENCY REQUIREMENTS

A high school diploma with three (3) years as a Class 1 Law Enforcement Officer, trained by the SC Criminal Justice Academy or out of state equivalent. A bachelor's degree may be substituted for required experience. Certification by the SC Law Enforcement Training Council in accordance with State Statute-Section 23-23-40. The South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes: Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Health, dental, and life insurance 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year 15 days of sick leave per year 13 paid holidays State retirement plans and deferred compensation programs Discount Programs such as TicketatWork and WeSave #J-18808-Ljbffr State of South Carolina