Wage and Hour Investigator

Role Overview

The Wage and Hour Investigator (Regional Enforcement Coordinator) acts as the main consultant to senior regional and district enforcement leadership concerning compliance and enforcement strategies related to labor laws. This role involves managing enforcement actions under various statutes and programs assigned to the region.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Review case files against Investigator standards and provide constructive feedback to both investigators and district managers regarding issues or deficiencies.
• Evaluate enforcement priorities and suggest adjustments to programs based on industry trends, economic factors, and compliance patterns; select employers for investigation and determine necessary remedies considering evidence and compliance levels.
• Coordinate program activities with other Department of Labor entities, state agencies, and federal bodies, especially concerning benefit plan contributions and overlapping investigations.
• Lead or participate in comprehensive investigations within designated program areas, often collaborating across district offices or regions to ensure cohesive enforcement.
• Negotiate with employer representatives and legal counsel to achieve voluntary compliance and secure due wages and damages where applicable.
• Identify cases suitable for litigation and assist legal teams by providing expertise and building strong cases; offer guidance to investigators in complex or ambiguous cases and organize specialized training.
• Develop and actively engage in outreach, education, and public relations to increase awareness of worker protections under the enforced acts.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 16 years old, and able to obtain necessary security clearances, completing a probationary period if needed.
• Demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience commensurate with GS-12 federal grade level, involving planning, conducting, and coordinating complex enforcement activities and investigations.
• Meet Individual Occupational Requirement by fulfilling at least two of the following: general knowledge of wage and hour laws and employment practices; analytical skills for reviewing data and applying legal standards; interpersonal skills for effective communication and negotiation.
• Provide detailed work history with clear dates and descriptions of relevant duties, including part-time experience if applicable.
• No substitute education is accepted; all qualifications must be met within 30 days after the announcement closes.
• Additional qualifications may include experience with agricultural labor laws and outreach for positions focusing on agricultural compliance.

Additional Employment Information

• This position requires a background check for access to Department of Labor facilities and sensitive information.
• The role is covered by union bargaining units depending on the duty location.
• The Department of Labor offers various incentives and hiring flexibilities for highly qualified applicants.
• Applicants’ criminal history will only be considered after a conditional offer in compliance with the Fair Chance Act.
• All employees are subject to drug-free workplace policies under executive orders and federal law.
• Successful candidates should be dedicated to public service, support constitutional values, and aim to improve government efficiency.
• Federal employment provides comprehensive benefits depending on position type and status.