Deputy Director, Educator Investigations (Director II)

Agency Information The Texas Education Agency (TEA) oversees primary and secondary public education in Texas and is committed to improving outcomes for all public school students by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems across the state. Core Values We are Determined: We are committed and intentional in pursuing our primary purpose of improving outcomes for students. We are People-Centered: We strive to attract, develop, and retain committed talent that reflects the diversity of Texas, with each individual contributing to our shared vision for students. We are Learners: We seek evidence, reflect on outcomes, and continuously improve in pursuit of excellence for students. We are Servant Leaders: We are public servants committed to improving opportunities for students and supporting those who serve them. Job Description At the Texas Education Agency's Office of Governance (OG), we are driven by a powerful mission: to proactively support school systems, keep students safe, and uphold Texas education law with integrity, objectivity, and excellence. Our core workstreams, Field Support and Compliance & Investigations, focus on strengthening governance, fostering a culture of accountability, and promoting continuous improvement across Texas schools. By working closely with school systems and agency teams, we help ensure every Texas public school student has access to a safe, high-quality education. Position Overview On behalf of the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) and the Commissioner of Education, the Educator Investigations Division (EID) plays a critical role in safeguarding students in Texas by addressing allegations of misconduct involving educators and school employees. The division is structured into two primary units: Intake and Investigations. The Intake Unit serves as the initial review and decision-making engine for the division, where complex information is assessed, risks are evaluated, and critical decisions are made. The team reviews misconduct reports, conducts preliminary reviews, tracks criminal matters, and collaborates with the Office of the Inspector General to facilitate the temporary suspension and inclusion process. This unit makes recommendations for formal investigations in strict accordance with SBEC and agency policy, always prioritizing student safety. The Investigations Unit conducts formal investigations into reports of alleged misconduct by SBEC-certified educators and non-certified school employees. This unit ensures that due process is provided in all cases, maintaining a strong commitment to protecting students and upholding the integrity of the educational environment. The Deputy Director of Educator Investigations will lead this high-impact function, transforming how we assess, prioritize, and respond to cases that directly influence student safety. This is a strategic leadership position focused on designing and improving systems that work at scale. Reporting to the Director of Investigations and working under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude to exercise initiative and independent judgment, this role will solve complex, ambiguous problems with meaningful consequences. This role requires a systems thinker and problem solver who thrives in complexity bringing a balance of strategic perspective and operational discipline, and has the ability to see patterns, connect dots, and drive solutions that improve outcomes at scale. Please note that a resume, cover letter, and short answer responses are required attachments for applying to this position. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who are strongly being considered for employment must submit to a national criminal history background check. Essential Functions

1. Strategy and Operational Leadership: responsible for building and sustaining a high-performing team through the co-development of a clear vision anchored in systems thinking, student safety, and operational excellence, and translating it into strategic objectives, team initiatives, and individual performance goals; monitors progress and provides coaching to managers and staff to develop and retain staff, ensuring sound judgment, rigor, and continuous learning
2. Direct Workflow and Performance: oversee end-to-end Investigation workflows to ensure timely and accurate case reviews and decision making; ensure adherence to law, policy, and procedures; oversee tracking of high-priority criminal cases to disposition; work with the Division Director to oversee the adoption, utilization, and optimization of the division¿s case management system; quickly respond to changes and pivot workflows to address workload, resources, or other conditions; ensure leadership is apprised of high-profile or complex matters; and ensures clear expectations for quality, professionalism, and responsiveness
3. Process Improvement and Optimization: champion continuous improvement through the use of proven process-improvement techniques to evaluate systems, processes, identify systemic inefficiencies, and design solutions that enhance quality and productivity, develop high quality strategy documents and presentations to convey operational forecasts and recommendations; develop and refine policies and procedures that strengthen and support the team¿s overall strategy; oversee implementation of process improvements, ensuring continuity of operations and measurable performance gains; conduct assigned and self-initiated audits and use performance data to identify risks, close gaps, and elevate operational excellence across the division
4. Stakeholder Engagement: proactively cultivate and manage collaborative relationships with internal and external partners, including the Office of Inspector General for Educator Misconduct, TEA Special Investigations Division, and the Texas Department of Family Protective Services, to strengthen cross-functional systems and advance division goals
5. Risk Assessment and Analysis: identifies risks that may arise from general inquiries and assesses the impact of those risk factors; establishes protocols for accurate and appropriate responses; provides training for staff; establishes procedures and protocols for the office staff

5. Team Management and Development: drive team development and performance management with a structured, proactive approach; lead focused meetings with clear agendas, provide ongoing feedback and coaching, and document staff progress toward defined objectives and performance measures; oversee monthly review of metrics and outcomes, ensuring clarity, accountability, and continuous improvement; strengthen team engagement, cohesion, and alignment by offering thoughtful guidance on strategy, goals, and expectations; and establish comprehensive onboarding and transition processes and design professional development pathways that foster individual and team growth Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Education: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university Experience: At least five (5) years of experience conducting investigations, overseeing background checks, or working in a related field, including progressive responsibility for designing, improving, or managing systems and processes at scale. Experience collaborating with law enforcement, protective, and regulatory agencies on complex or high-profile investigations, including cases involving child abuse, school misconduct, financial fraud, and licensure violations. At least two (2) years of experience in a supervisory, training, or lead role, including developing staff and promoting best practices Substitutions: Education and experience may substitute for one another on a year-for-year basis Other Qualifications Share the belief that all Texas students can achieve at high levels and are able to succeed in college, career, or the military Proficiency in using software applications, databases, and case management systems to support investigative work and improve outcomes Working knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to misconduct, criminal and administrative investigations, compliance and fraud-related violations, and confidentiality, including the Texas Penal Code, Texas Education Code, Texas Family Code, Texas Administrative Code, and FERPA Proven ability to lead investigative teams while conducting evidence analysis, interviews, and training in best investigative practices Demonstrated ability to oversee a substantial case docket, apply statute and rule to operational decisions, respond to leadership directives, and meet required timelines to achieve goals Exceptional communicator with strong interpersonal skills and sound judgment, delivering concise investigative briefings that translate complex, sensitive findings into clear reports, presentations, and actionable policy or process improvements A demonstrated commitment to self-reflection, giving/receiving feedback, and continuous improvement Ability to work as a contributing member of a team by establishing and maintaining positive, effective working relationships with all levels of staff Must satisfy the Texas Department of Public Safety¿s criteria for access to the TX DPS secure website and clearinghouse New hires, rehires, and internal hires will typically receive a starting salary between the posted minimum and the average pay of employees within the same classification. Offers are based on the candidate's experience and qualifications and consider internal pay equity across employees performing similar work. The top half of the posted salary range is generally reserved for candidates whose qualifications exceed the role's requirements. The maximum of the range is typically reserved for candidates who significantly exceed the required and preferred qualifications. Benefits TEA employees receive a comprehensive benefits package through the State of Texas and the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS), supporting health, financial security, and work-life balance. Benefits include: Retirement through ERS and employer-paid health insurance for eligible employees Optional dental, vision, and dependent coverage Paid state holidays, vacation leave, sick leave, and longevity pay Wellness programs, employee assistance programs, and professional development opportunities Eligibility for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program To learn more about benefits available to State of Texas employees, please review the State of Texas Employee Benefits brochure and visit the TEA Compensation and Benefits page . Military/Veteran Information Applicants eligible for Military Employment Preference will be considered in accordance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations. To explore how military experience may align with this role, applicants may review Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) codes within the State's Position Classification Plan. Please refer to the Military Crosswalk and select the occupational category that most closely corresponds with the classification listed in this job posting. Additional Information TEA is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal and state nondiscrimination laws. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or veteran status. TEA does not sponsor or assume sponsorship of employment visas. This position requires the applicant to meet Agency standards and criteria which may include passing a pre-employment criminal background check, prior to being offered employment by the Agency. To learn more about working at TEA, including hiring timelines, process details, and candidate resources, please visit the Careers at TEA page . #J-18808-Ljbffr Texas Education Agency