Investigator III

Introduction

The Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) in Delaware is committed to enhancing residents' quality of life by promoting health, self-sufficiency, and safeguarding vulnerable groups. By aiding individuals and families across multiple life aspects, DHSS creates opportunities for meaningful career growth while serving the community.

Position Overview

The Investigator III serves as a lead role within the Administrative Review and Monitoring Section (ARMS), specializing in complex audits and probes into Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card trafficking related to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Additionally, this position investigates fraud across all DHSS-administered public assistance programs. Coordination with law enforcement agencies is required for joint operations focused on retailer trafficking. The incumbent prepares administrative disqualification hearings and prosecution documents, testifies in both administrative and criminal hearings, manages a significant caseload, and undertakes various special assignments.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough investigations to identify possible violations or compliance concerns by gathering, verifying, and analyzing pertinent information and evidence.
• Collect and scrutinize evidence including physical items, financial records, backgrounds, and documentation.
• Develop investigative questions and conduct interviews with witnesses, complainants, victims, and other involved parties to clarify facts.
• Interpret and ensure compliance with applicable federal and state laws, regulations, policies, and standards.
• Evaluate all collected facts to make informed recommendations or take enforcement actions in coordination with authorities or supervisors.
• Utilize commercial and proprietary automated systems, software, and internet resources to research, document, and report investigative and intelligence data.
• Maintain detailed documentation of all communications, interviews, and investigative interactions; respond to communication hotlines when required.
• Prepare comprehensive investigative reports that accurately reflect findings and actions taken.
• Provide testimony and present evidence before administrative bodies, commissions, boards, or courts as needed.
• Deliver exemplary customer service to both internal stakeholders and the public through various communication channels.
• Effectively engage with diverse populations across cultural, ability, gender, ethnicity, age, and race spectrums.
• Conduct surveillance, undercover investigations, and on-site inspections; may execute arrests or secure search warrants relevant to investigations.
• Recommend subpoenas for information collection when appropriate.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum one year of experience in the planning, development, coordination, and execution of investigative activities.
• At least two years of experience conducting investigations, including confidential interviews, evidence gathering, and producing documentation of findings.
• Two years experience evaluating and analyzing information to advise on suspected violations of laws, rules, and regulations.
• One year of experience participating in civil, criminal, or administrative proceedings; including testimony delivery, preparation of evidentiary documents, and case management.

Additional Information

This role is classified as Casual/Seasonal, providing no pension eligibility or healthcare benefits. Candidates will be requested to submit a writing sample during interviews.

Employment Conditions

• Satisfactory criminal background check is mandatory; candidates may be required to cover its cost.
• New employees must attend Statewide New Employee Orientation (SNEO) held in Kent or New Castle County on their first workday.
• A valid driver’s license is required at the time of employment, without suspensions, revocations, or disqualifications.
• Applicants must have legal authorization to work in the U.S. The State uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility and does not provide visa sponsorship.

Selection Process & Accommodations

Applications and responses to supplemental questionnaires are carefully evaluated based on education, training, and experience related to the job requirements. Accuracy and completeness in providing employment details and educational backgrounds on the application are essential. Communication regarding the application review process will primarily be conducted via email. The State offers accommodation services for individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process.

Diversity Statement

The State of Delaware is dedicated to equal opportunity employment and values workforce diversity, actively encouraging applicants from varied backgrounds including race, color, religion, age, sex, nationality, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.