Fraud Investigator

Job SummaryIf you're the person who catches the detail everyone else misses, this role is for you. As a desk investigator with our Fraud Unit, you'll reconstruct up to six years of income history using bank statements and case documentation, perform detailed calculations, and build case files that withstand legal scrutiny. Your reports will be reviewed by attorneys, hearing officers, and the County Attorney's Office. You'll also collaborate closely with County Attorney partners and investigators in other counties.We're seeking someone with eligibility determination experience who can write clearly within policy requirements and accurately distinguish among agency error, client error, and intentional program violations—including cases in which no violation occurred. Because most client communication takes place by email, you'll need to balance empathy with the discipline to present facts clearly and objectively.Experience testifying at hearings or in court is one of our strongest differentiators. Knowledge of Colorado public assistance regulations, strong database research skills, and proficiency in Excel and Outlook will also set you apart. Above all, you'll handle sensitive information with discretion and uphold El Paso County's standards and values in every case. Hiring Range: $58,000.00 - $63,000.00 annually. This position has an anticipated work schedule of Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm. Alternative work schedule options are available; subject to change. Due to the sensitive nature of this role, additional background checks may be required, including a Government Program Fraud and Child Welfare Abuse & Neglect database (TRAILS) check. Please be advised this position may close without advance notice, should we receive a sufficient number of qualified applications.Essential Duties/ResponsibilitiesReviews information and referrals to determine the type of investigation required; reviews and researches case files and Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) regulations to determine conduct of investigation, applicable regulations and statutes to support fraud or abuse of regulations; verifies past and present eligibility for public assistance.Gathers necessary evidence regarding the allegations set forth in the investigation referral, including researching various state and federal databases.Conducts investigations for cases referred to DHS. Performs database searches, conducts interviews with neighbors, schools and employers, and clients. Obtains and confirms verbal and written statements.Identifies and maintains information and evidence, verifying and authenticating with respect to validity and admissibility and preserves for presentation in court or evidentiary hearings; determines if recipient received overpayment because of agency error, client error, intentional program violation, or criminal fraud.Prepares professional reports documenting all aspects of investigations (findings, evidence, testimony, and other supporting documentation) meeting established timelines. Verifies a variety of employment, identity, and location information utilizing various databases and search engines. Assists with the preparation and submission of cases to law enforcement and the District Attorney's Office as required.Completes forms to establish recovery; ensures recipients receive proper notices of action; updates the applicable systems and distributes copies to the recipient, recovery technician, and case record, with a summary of the findings to the referring party when appropriate.Initiates disqualification for a recipient found to have committed fraud through a variety of orders or notices of violations; notifies recipient describing length of disqualification, regulations that apply to the action, and the date the action will take effect.Meets with legal staff in pretrial and trial conferences to assist in the preparation and presentation of criminal prosecution. Prepares, conducts, and testifies in hearings as needed.Conducts and participates in training sessions and workshops regarding the criteria and procedures for fraud referrals.Facilitates the acquisition of case files for fraud referrals. Tracks all requests and ensures timely receipt of all files necessary for determining fraud. Documents all action in the unit's tracking system.Prepares and disseminates fraud-related reports to leadership and external agencies.Assists the unit in identifying fraudulent trends and preventing the expenditure of funds to ineligible clients by verifying household composition and questionable income and resources prior to the issuance of benefits.Performs other duties as required.Supervision Exercised: This classification does not have supervisory authority; however, may be required to provide expertise or limited guidance or direction to employees, such as overseeing work quality, training, and guidance. Typically serves as a subject matter expert on the scope of functional area. Supervision Received: Receives general supervision. This classification typically performs job duties by following established standard operating procedures and/or policies. Regular direction, guidance, and coaching from supervisor may be expected. There is a choice of the appropriate procedure or policy to apply to duties. Performance reviewed periodically.QualificationsKnowledge, Skills & AbilitiesKnowledge of and ability to effectively use all standard investigative methods and procedures, including maintaining a high standard of ethical behavior and the ability to treat clients with dignity and respect.Working knowledge of human services and public assistance rules, regulations, and procedures.Strong time management skills with attention to detail. Ability to efficiently plan, schedule, and organize.Ability to utilize and demonstrate professional judgment in all aspects of interpersonal relationships, public relationships, and work-related duties.Ability to assess situations and make prudent and appropriate decisions; ability to apply conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.Ability to maintain confidentiality.Ability to communicate and work effectively with co-workers, clients, other agencies, and the public. Ability to provide excellent customer service.Ability to use standard office equipment including computer, calculator, copier, and telephone.Ability to utilize and demonstrate proficiency in current software applications including but not limited to Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, and Outlook; ability to conduct internet and database searches and use and maintain databases.Maintain regular and punctual attendance.Required Education & ExperienceHigh school diploma or equivalent education.Four years of experience determining eligibility for public assistance in a social services agency; orTwo years of investigative experience.Preferred Education & ExperienceExperience in providing professional and effective testimony in hearings and court proceedings.Licenses/CertificatesIf assigned to field investigations:Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.Pre-Employment RequirementsMust pass conditional post offer background investigation and drug screen.If assigned to field investigations:Must pass conditional post offer background investigation, motor vehicle record check, and drug screen.Work ConditionsDuties are primarily performed in a high-volume office and remote work environment dependent on business needs. For the field investigation assignment, duties involve local travel and field work, including visits to client homes, schools, businesses, etc.; may be exposed to hostile family situations and individuals. This position may require evening and weekend hours. The classification specification above is intended to describe the general nature of work, key responsibilities, and minimum qualifications. Minimum qualifications reflect the baseline experience required for the classification. Departments may establish additional or preferred qualifications to address operational needs, assignment complexity, and specialized functions, provided such qualifications are job-related, consistent with the intent of the classification, and as approved by the Human Resources department. Specific job assignments, duties, education, experience, licenses/certifications, and working conditions may vary based on the department or office's needs and the requirements of the assigned position. Changes to this classification specification may only be made by the Human Resources Department.BenefitsFull-time employees are eligible for the following benefits:Medical, dental, and vision benefitsPaid vacation, sick, and personal leave11 paid holidaysOnsite health centersOnsite fitness centersReach Your Peak wellness programShort and long term disabilityLife insuranceFlexible spending accounts to include dependent careEmployee assistance programTuition reimbursementRetirement planDeferred compensation (457b)