APS Investigator Specialist

Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. Job Title: APS Investigator Specialist I Location: San Antonio, TX Salary: $3,816.65–$5,372.41 per month (Monthly) Benefits Health Insurance: 100% paid for you, 50% paid for eligible family members. Retirement: Lifetime monthly payments after five years of service, plus 401(k) and 457 plans. Paid Time Off: Vacation, holidays, and sick leave. Optional Coverage: Dental, vision, and life insurance. Flexible Spending Accounts. Employee Discounts: On gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment. Responsibilities Investigates reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of elderly or disabled adults, gathering social, functional, physical, and mental‑emotional information. Provides after‑hours and weekend services to maintain 24‑hour coverage. Determines short‑term or long‑term actions to protect client safety, including counseling, referrals, court testimony, alternate housing, and ongoing services. Develops individualized service plans and maintains detailed case documentation. Participates in community awareness activities to inform the public about the program. Prepares routine, statistical, and special reports for management. Serves in a lead capacity in the supervisor’s absence. Performs other duties as assigned to maintain unit operations. Promotes respect for cultural diversity among coworkers and all contacts. Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Qualifications Initial Screening Criteria (APS Investigator Specialist I): Accredited bachelor’s degree OR accredited associate’s degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Preferred Criteria: Completion of coursework or a degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice, Sociology, Counseling, Education, or a related field. Experience working in a government agency, nonprofit, or school supporting individuals or families in need. Prior experience in case management, investigations, law enforcement, or courtroom testimony related to protective services. Experience conducting sensitive interviews or assessments. Licensure and Other Requirements Use of a personal motor vehicle is required. Applicants must have a reliable vehicle, acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current valid Texas driver’s license. Physical & Travel Requirements Frequently required to stand, hear, talk, and occasionally climb. May need to carry up to 20 pounds sometimes and 10 pounds frequently. Must work outside the office in a mobile environment; exposure to adverse conditions may occur. Business‑related travel is reimbursed. Approximately 60% of the time will involve travel on the road; some overnight travel may be required. Other Employment Information Background check and driver’s record check required. Must comply with State Of Texas cybersecurity and communications policies. DFPS uses E‑Verify; bring I‑9 documentation on the first day. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, reasonable accommodation will be provided during hiring and selection. #J-18808-Ljbffr