CPI Special Investigator Trainee

Job Title: CPI SI Investigator III (CPI Special Investigator Trainee) Job Overview This position is a specialized investigative role within the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Candidates must have prior law‑enforcement experience and will assist DFPS supervisors in investigating high‑profile or high‑risk child abuse and neglect cases. Responsibilities include conducting forensic investigations, providing training and consultation to DFPS staff, preparing case documentation, and representing the department in court as needed. Essential Job Functions Conduct specialized investigations of child abuse and neglect. Serve as a resource and trainer on forensic interview skills and techniques. Identify and address staff development and training needs regarding forensic investigations. Provide expert consultation to DFPS staff and the community on complex forensic issues. Conduct in‑depth interviews to determine immediate or long‑term risk of abuse or neglect. Assess family dynamics and functioning to determine agency intervention needs. Prepare and submit comprehensive case documentation, including legal documentation and court testimony. Review cases for specific risk factors and assist with forensic techniques to ensure proper casework actions. Attend training and professional development as required. Perform additional duties 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 working relationships with law‑enforcement and community professionals. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) Knowledge of Texas criminal and civil law related to child abuse and neglect. Knowledge of forensic interviewing techniques. Knowledge of child development and family dynamics, including domestic violence, substance abuse, and criminal activity. Knowledge of community resources within the law‑enforcement community. Skill in forensic interviewing of children and adults. Skill in determining risk of harm to children. Skill in crisis intervention techniques. Skill in investigating and resolving complex child abuse or neglect cases. Skill in verbal and written communication. Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with agency staff and community stakeholders. Ability to evaluate investigative records against department standards. Ability to analyze reports and produce comprehensive documents. Ability to train staff in forensic interview techniques. Ability to operate a personal computer and relevant software. Ability to operate standard office equipment, including fax and copy machines. Qualifications High‑school graduate or equivalent. Five years as a TCOLE licensed peace officer (or comparable certification). OR Three years as a TCOLE licensed peace officer (or comparable certification) and two years in DFPS child‑protection investigations, or completion of DFPS Special Investigator training during prior DFPS employment. Experience in military police or investigative services considered qualifying, as listed (e.g., Army MOS 31B/31D, Marine Corps 5811/5821). Preferred: 60 college credit hours; two years as a detective/investigator on multidisciplinary teams concerning child abuse/neglect. Must Have Licenses or Certifications Valid Texas driver’s license. TCOLE Intermediate license, or equivalent out‑of‑state peace‑officer license, federal law‑enforcement certification, or military experience comparable to Texas peace officer. Preferred: Texas peace‑officer license held within the past two years; TCOLE advanced or master peace‑officer license or equivalent. Benefits 100% paid health insurance for the employee and 50% for eligible family members. Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of service, plus 401(k) and 457 options. Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave. Optional dental, vision, and life insurance. Flexible spending accounts. Employee discounts on gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment. Travel Requirements Frequent travel to homes and offices within and outside the assigned region (up to 75% of the time). Remote travel and occasional overnight trips may be required. Additional Information Applicants who are selected may receive a monthly pay increase of $416.66 after 120 days of tenure in an investigative position. This increase is contingent on continued service in an investigative role. Applicants must pass a background check and driver’s record check. State of Texas employees must comply with security, cybersecurity, and accessibility standards, including partial WCAG 2.1 AA compliance for electronic information resources. DFPS employs E‑Verify; applicants must provide I‑9 documentation on the first day of work. Applicants who are veterans, active‑duty military, reservists, or guardsmen are encouraged to apply if qualified. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, DFPS provides reasonable accommodation during hiring and selection processes for qualified individuals with disabilities. Application Information Please note: This position is currently open. The closing date is 08/08/2026. #J-18808-Ljbffr