Senior Investigator
Job Description
Join our dedicated team at the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Investigations Division, where we are committed to safeguarding individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Our division receives over 6,000 annual allegations of abuse, encompassing everything from minor program issues to serious criminal conduct like rape, assault, and theft, our work plays a crucial role in building a safer future for those who are most vulnerable. As a DDS Senior Investigator, your role will involve reviewing these allegations, assessing their level of risk, assigning investigations, and ensuring appropriate resolutions as outlined in 115 CMR 9. It will be your responsibility to ensure that all investigations are conducted in strict adherence to statutory requirements (MGL c19C) and relevant regulations (118 CMR 5.0/115 CMR 9.0). Under the guidance of our Director of Investigations, you will receive support in maintaining consistent complaint dispositions, conducting thorough investigations, and establishing professional interactions with external entities. Make a lasting impact and help create a safer environment for others by joining us today. Act now!
Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all-inclusive):
• Promptly and diligently reviews all investigation reports for quality and thoroughness. • Makes certain investigations are completed in accordance with 118 CMR 5.0/MGL c19C and/or 115 CMR 9.0. • Issues Decision Letters for all finalized reports.
• Supervises a team of Staff Investigators and an Office Support Specialist.
• Ensures that the productivity and quality of work are maintained at optimum levels through intense supervision and mentoring that includes regular group and individual meetings.
• Provides support and encourages training and/or other professional development opportunities. When necessary, designs and implements performance improvement plans for staff.
• Immediately reports all potentially sensitive matters to the Director and Deputy Director of Investigations.
• Submits monthly updates on the status of all pending law enforcement, high-profile, and death investigations to the Director of Investigations and Deputy Director of Investigations.
• When immediate action is required, communicate with the Regional Director or designee, orally and in writing, to detail the nature of the allegations, the identity of the alleged victim(s), and the need for immediate protective services.
• Logs and makes timely and appropriate dispositions on all allegations/intakes.
• Works effectively with DDS officials, other state officials, law enforcement officials, and parties to complaints to handle all investigations-related matters efficiently, thoroughly, and professionally.
• Contributes to the agency's mission by identifying factors that may adversely impact the welfare of adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
• Performs other duties as assigned, including but not limited to completion of all training, duties, and special assignments as deemed necessary by EHS, DDS, Director of Investigations, and Deputy Director of Investigations.
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Preferred Qualifications:
• Five (5) years of experience in either law enforcement or human services, demonstrating practical expertise and a comprehensive understanding of the field.
• Proven track record of conducting interviews and investigations for at least five (5) years.
• A college degree, preferably in Criminal Justice or Human Services.
• Extensive knowledge of M.G.L. c. 19C, 115 CMR, and 118 CMR, demonstrating expertise in the principles and practices necessary for conducting thorough and effective investigations.
• Exceptional proficiency in English grammar and syntax, enabling clear and concise communication through both written and verbal channels.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage and motivate a diverse team of individuals in a high-pressure office environment.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
• In-depth understanding of the DDS hierarchy and its operational processes, ensuring efficient collaboration within the organization.
• Diplomatic approach and the ability to tactfully engage with all individuals encountered during business-related tasks.
• Proficiency in modern management and administrative practices, coupled with the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Possession of a diverse skill set encompassing investigation expertise, client care, and knowledge of the laws pertaining to the agency and its clients.
About the Department of Developmental Services:
The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly oversees and manages $3 billion in public funds ($2.7B+ operating budget) and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.
For more information about our agency and programs visit: www.mass.gov/dds
To Apply: Please upload a cover letter and resume for the Senior Investigator requisition.
Pre-Hire Process:
Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Record Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.
• Education, licensure, and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines.
A criminal and tax history background check will be completed on the recommended candidate as required by the regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services prior to the candidate being hired.
Recommended candidates must successfully complete pre-employment screening which includes:
• Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) Abuse Registry Search: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dppc-abuser-registry
• Criminal background check (CORI) by regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori
• National Background Checks, Chapter 234 of the Acts of 2014, conduct fingerprint-based check. https://www.mass.gov/lists/dds-fingerprint-background-checks
ADA Reasonable Accommodation:
If you require a reasonable accommodation with the application/interview process, please contact us at: EOHHS Candidate ADA Requests
For technical help with MassCareers, including logging into your profile and/or resetting your password, please call the Employee Service Center at 617-979-8500 for assistance.
For questions regarding this requisition, please contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Human Resources at 1-800-510-4122 Ext. #4.
Qualifications
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must have at least (A) five (5) years of full-time or, equivalent part-time, professional, administrative, supervisory, or managerial experience in business administration, business management, public administration, public management, clinical administration or clinical management of which (B) at least one (1) year must have been in a project management, supervisory or managerial capacity or (C) any equivalent combination of the required experience and substitutions below.
Substitutions:
I. A certificate in a relevant or related field may be substituted for one (1) year of the required (A) experience.
II. A Bachelor's degree in a related field may be substituted for two (2) years of the required (A) experience.
III. A Graduate degree in a related field may be substituted for three (3) years of the required (A) experience.
IV. A Doctorate degree in a related field may be substituted for four (4) years of the required (A) experience.
Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate's years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
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An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
Perks and Benefits
Health and Wellness
- Health Insurance
- Health Reimbursement Account
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Short-Term Disability
- Long-Term Disability
- FSA
- HSA
- Mental Health Benefits
Parental Benefits
- Adoption Assistance Program
- Family Support Resources
Work Flexibility
- Flexible Work Hours
- Hybrid Work Opportunities
Office Life and Perks
- Commuter Benefits Program
Vacation and Time Off
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Personal/Sick Days
- Volunteer Time Off
Financial and Retirement
- Pension
- Financial Counseling
Professional Development
- Promote From Within
- Mentor Program
- Access to Online Courses
- Lunch and Learns
- Internship Program
- Leadership Training Program
- Associate or Rotational Training Program
Diversity and Inclusion
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program