Field Investigator

Field InvestigatorMaine Department of TransportationStarting Salary: $47,174.40 - $65,832.00Office/Bureau: Legal ServicesLocation: Augusta, MEOpening Date: June 16, 2026Closing Date: June 30, 2026MaineDOT is seeking an experienced Field Investigator to join its Office of Legal Services. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to a wide range of investigative work supporting transportation projects and infrastructure across the State of Maine. MaineDOT's mission is to support economic opportunity and quality of life for Maine people and businesses by responsibly providing the safest and most reliable transportation system possible, given available resources. The Office of Legal Services plays a key role in that mission by helping the Department navigate legal requirements while advancing practical, business-focused solutions.About the RoleThis position is well-suited for a candidate with a strong foundation in research into statutory and regulatory requirements and investigative work who is interested in applying those skills in a complex public-sector environment. The Field Investigator contributes to a collaborative legal team, working closely with attorneys, region engineers, project managers and right-of-way staff to support the handling of a wide variety of right-of-way and other issues central to MaineDOT's operations.This role is a professional growth position where the successful candidate will build subject-matter knowledge of MaineDOT's programs over time. Success in this role requires the ability to work within an established legal framework, take direction, develop strong investigative skills and the ability to refine work product through feedback and collaboration. Work is performed under the guidance of experienced legal staff, with increasing independence as familiarity and proficiency develop.What You'll DoResponsibilities may include:Handle the intake and the investigation of right-of-way issues and assist managers and attorneys in the Legal Services Division and staff in the 5 statewide Region Offices in dealing with such matters as right-of-way encroachments, drainage claims and safety concerns.Assist in the intake of claims and complaints, including construction claims, from the public directly or as directed to Legal Services by other areas of the Department.Review applications and conduct field investigations for waivers and licenses related to permissive use of the right-of-way including fixtures and signs and serve on the Licensing and Waiver Committee.Travel throughout the state to investigate encroachmentsRespond to public inquiries concerning the placement of fixtures and other objects relative to the location of MaineDOT's right-of-way.Assist with the investigation of accidents and claims for Risk Management and resolve routine claims.Draft letters and memos as need, and maintain case files relative to documentation and correspondence, as directed.What We're Looking ForWe are seeking a candidate who:Has solid experience and/or skills investigating, fact finding and analyzing information, reporting findings and making recommendations.Is comfortable working in a structured, team-oriented legal environment where collaboration and review are part of the processDemonstrates sound judgment, attention to detail, and a practical approach to legal workHas experience researching and applying federal, state and local laws and regulatory requirementsCommunicates clearly and professionally, both in writing and in personCan manage multiple assignments while maintaining accuracy in a deadline-driven environmentIs interested in developing subject-matter knowledge in right-of-way laws and property damage issues in the context of MaineDOT's operationsMinimum QualificationsA six (6) year combination of education and experience providing paralegal, investigative, mediation, research, and/or analytical skills.Application Instructions:Interested applicants need to apply online by clicking the "Apply for this Opening/Apply Now" button along with uploading a cover letter, current resume, and any applicable copies of post-secondary transcripts, licensing, registration and certifications.Why join our team?No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto—"Dirigo" or "I lead"—as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including:Work-Life Fit – Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.Wellness – We care about you and your family's wellbeing, offering 12 days of sick leave annually to help you stay healthy.Health Insurance Coverage – The State of Maine pays 85%-95% of employee-only premiums ($11,196.96 - $12,514.32 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find the premium costs for you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.Dental Insurance – The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($358.08 annual value).Retirement Plan – The State contributes the equivalent of up to 14.11% of the employee's pay towards the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS).State employees are eligible for an extensive and highly competitive benefits package, covering many aspects of wellness. Learn about additional wellness benefits for State employees from the Office of Employee Health and Wellness.Note: Benefits may vary somewhat according to specific collective bargaining agreements and are prorated for anything less than full-time.There's a job and then there's purposeful, transformative work. Our aim is to create a workplace where you can learn, grow, and continuously refine your skills. Applicants demonstrate job requirements in differing ways, and we appreciate that many skills and backgrounds can make people successful in this role.As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness. We are committed to creating a strong sense of belonging for all team members, and our process ensures an inclusive environment to applicants of all backgrounds including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status or genetics.If you're looking for a great next step, and want to feel good about what you do, we'd love to hear from you. Please note reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.Thinking about applying?Research shows that people from historically excluded communities tend to apply to jobs only when they check every box in the posting. If you're currently reading this and hesitating to apply for that reason, we encourage you to go for it! Let us know how your lived experience and passion set you apart.