Lead Investigator - Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI)

Overview JOB PURPOSE: The Lead Investigator for the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) grant-funded work within the Office of the Cumberland County District Attorney. This position will perform diverse work directly related to the grant goals and objectives, including inventory of stored kits and conducting case investigations arising from victim reports and kit testing results using a comprehensive and victim-centered approach. Only work that fulfills the SAKI grant objectives is permitted under this grant. A period of training related to SAKI best practices will be required before any casework begins. This is not a patrol position. A federal grant-funded position is limited in time and scope and is scheduled to end in October 2027, with a possibility (not a guarantee) of extension beyond that date. The position is non-exempt, 40 hours per week, with a full benefits package. Hours may vary depending on case needs. Pay is competitive and commensurate with experience. The position is housed in, and supervised by, the Office of the District Attorney. Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. The County is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time. Qualifications Graduate of the Maine Criminal Justice Academy/Blue Pin; Minimum of two (2) years full-time law enforcement experience; non-probationary employee; High school diploma or equivalent; Associate Degree in Criminal Justice preferred; Experience investigating criminal cases; Ability and willingness to learn new investigative techniques and stay current on best practices and technology; Possess valid Maine driver’s license and lack of driving convictions; Successful applicant will be required to undergo a background check as well as a polygraph examination before hiring is finalized; Must have excellent communication and team building skills; Moderate knowledge of Microsoft systems and ability to be trained on law enforcement software systems, evidence sharing systems, and case-tracking systems (Spillman / Summit / Flex / JustWare / Sharefile / Axon); Successful applicant must be self-motivated, victim-centered, and willing to learn and apply best practices to sexual assault kit-related investigations. Major Responsibilities Participate and help manage a county-wide inventory of sexual assault kits, maintaining chain of custody throughout. Send or transport kits for testing to a private lab and/or the Maine State Police Crime Lab. Conduct investigations in partnership with the originating agency of “cold cases” related to SAKI work. Work collaboratively with the Lead Prosecutor to fulfill grant timeline and goals. Participate in a multi-disciplinary team and help develop best practices for case work related to SAKI. Enter applicable case information into the FBI’s Violent Criminal Apprehension Program (ViCAP) database. Develop and maintain good relationships with all community partners. Keep supervisor fully updated on case work and grant goals, including written progress reports. Respect limits of confidentiality and follow all applicable work guidelines, policies, and procedures, including Cumberland County Government and District Attorney’s Office Policies and Procedures. Increase accountability for serial offenders and public safety. Maintain full-time law enforcement requirements of the Maine Criminal Justice Academy as coordinated through the District Attorney’s Office. Benefits Cumberland County offers an excellent and comprehensive benefits package and is proud of its talented and dedicated workforce. Our culture emphasizes engaged employees, supportive leadership, a positive and friendly workplace, and opportunities for professional development. We offer tuition reimbursement, wellness programs, and professional development and training opportunities. Position will remain open until filled. Cumberland County is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected Veteran status. #J-18808-Ljbffr