CPI Special Investigator Trainee

Job Summary Job Title: CPI SI Investigator III (CPI Special Investigator Trainee) Agency: Department of Family & Protective Services – Special Investigations Location: El Paso, TX – 501 Hawkins Blvd Salary: $4,748.95–$5,921.25 per month (base), plus a $416.66 monthly increase after 120 days while in an investigative position. Shift: Day (additional days available) Benefits 100% paid health insurance for employee; 50% paid for eligible family members. Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus 401(k) and 457 options. Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave —time off paid. Optional dental, vision, and life insurance at lower rates than most private plans. Flexible spending accounts for health and dependent care tax savings. Employee discounts on gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment. Overview Work involves investigating high‑profile or high‑risk child abuse and neglect cases, often in coordination with local law enforcement. The investigator provides forensic investigation techniques, acts as a consultant to DFPS staff, and may manage a small caseload. Training and mentoring of DFPS staff on forensic interview skills is a key responsibility. IMPORTANT NOTICE This is a specialized position requiring prior experience as a police officer; it is not an entry‑level opportunity. Essential Job Functions Conduct specialized investigations of child abuse and neglect as assigned. Serve as a resource and trainer for DFPS staff on forensic interview techniques. Identify and provide staff development/training needs in forensic child abuse and neglect investigation. Provide expert consultation on complex forensic investigation issues. Conduct in‑depth interviews to assess risk of abuse or neglect; demonstrate advanced interviewing techniques. Assess family dynamics to determine appropriate agency intervention. Prepare comprehensive case documentation, including narratives and legal documentation, and testify in court. Review cases identified by Child Safety Specialists for risk factors or needed forensic assistance. Attend training and participate in professional development as required. Perform other duties necessary 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 and relationships within and outside the agency, especially with law‑enforcement partners. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 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. Knowledge of community resources within law enforcement and their use in addressing child abuse and neglect. 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 and maintain effective working relationships with agency staff, law‑enforcement personnel, and community stakeholders. Ability to evaluate investigation records against department standards for quality. Ability to analyze reports and produce comprehensive 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 licensed Texas Peace Officer; TCOLE Advanced or Master Peace Officer License or equivalent from an out‑of‑state law‑enforcement agency or the U.S. Military. Initial Criteria Graduation from an accredited high school 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 (or comparable), plus two years in DFPS Child Protection Investigations or completion of DFPS Special Investigator training during prior 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). Preferred: 60 college credit hours; two years as a Detective/Investigator with multidisciplinary teams on child abuse/neglect; forensic investigation skills experience. Additional Information Applicants selected for this position are eligible for a $416.66 monthly stipend after 120 days of tenure in an investigative role. The stipend resumes immediately if the investigator leaves and returns within 12 months. This role requires frequent travel to homes and offices both within and outside your assigned region; reliable transportation and willingness to travel about 60% of the time are essential. Some overnight travel may be required. All state agency employees must complete required background and driver’s record checks and comply with Section 117.001(2) of the State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Employees must also complete cybersecurity and communications system usage training. The agency follows WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 accessibility standards. DFPS uses E‑Verify. Bring I‑9 documentation on the first day of work. Employees are required to provide documentation establishing identity and authorization to work in the U.S. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. #J-18808-Ljbffr