Investigator

LOCATION: DISTRICT WIDE

POSITION: INVESTIGATOR

JOB QUALIFICATIONS: 

Education/Training/Licensure: 

• High School Diploma or G.E.D.
• Current Texas Peace Officer's License issued by TCOLE
• Valid Texas Class "C" Driver's License * Preferred Bachelor Degree 

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• ICS 100
• Must possess an understanding of the National Incident
• Management System (NIMS)
• Demonstrate ability to work effectively with students and the public
• Demonstrate ability to write effective, correct and legally complete offense reports 

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE:

Minimum of three (3) years' experience as an investigator or detective 

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The purpose of this job is to perform specialized, technical work functions associated with investigation of criminal offenses and related problems. Duties and responsibilities include conducting criminal and administrative investigations and searches; collecting information; collecting, processing and evaluating evidence; questioning victims, witnesses and suspects; preparing/maintaining documentation; and participating in court activities. Oversee the departments training division to maintain compliance. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• To provide continuous investigations of all crimes reported to the police department where the patrol division, by reasons of geographical limitations and primary functions cannot complete.
• Presently responsible for continuing investigations of any and all crimes reported to the police department, which originate within the corporate boundaries of Southwest ISD. These crimes vary in nature from class "C" misdemeanors to felonies, to capital offenses. Some of these investigations are lengthy, complex, controversial and difficult requiring an investigator to devote an extensive amount of time to solving these crimes.
• Must be prepared to work more than the required eight hours and also work well with other officers and agencies.
• Required to make sound and strategic technical decisions. These decisions are sometimes made "on the spot" under adverse and stressful situations. These decisions required that the Investigator be knowledgeable of all criminal laws and procedures and must possess the ability to apply this knowledge in everyday practical situations as they relate to criminal investigations.
• Required to perform such duties as conducting interviews with witnesses, victims and other individuals who have information necessary and useful to the investigation.
• Required to write technical reports, affidavits and other documents necessary and pertinent to the investigation detailing the information and facts gathered as a result of the investigation.
• Required to process crime scenes, photograph and process prisoners, prepare search warrants, conduct surveillance, prepare complaints, warrants, and commitments, arraign prisoners, use whatever resources available in order to obtain the necessary information for the investigation, keep constantly aware of the changing laws and investigative techniques, collect evidence in accordance with the rules of evidence collection, provide court testimony.
• Responsibility of carrying every investigation to its logical conclusion and at the same time prepares the investigation with as much strength as possible for successful prosecution.
• Required to have a high degree of motivation and initiative and must perform duties and responsibilities within a time limit imposed upon by laws, code of criminal procedures, departmental policies and the circumstances of the situation being investigated.
• Required to organize the workload to obtain the maximum productivity of time and efforts for each and every investigation.
• Responsibilities and requirements are not limited to those mentioned in this job description. An Investigator may be required to perform other duties as assigned by the Chief of Police.
• Enforce all rules and regulations promulgated by the Board of Trustees of Southwest ISD within the district and procedure guidelines.
• Take such other actions within the guidelines set forth in the "Procedure Manual", as the police officer deems reasonably necessary in order to fulfill the objectives set forth in the "Procedures Manual".
• Must be able to meet TCOLE weapons proficiency requirements.
• Demonstrate the willingness to work well with others.
• Must adapt to change, desire for self-improvement and work with minimum supervision. Accepts coaching in areas needing improvement.
• Must resolve problems effectively.
• Must maintain compliance of all rules and regulations, policy and procedures and all written and oral directives.
• Maintain training hours and obtain certifications or licenses required to qualify for promotion.
• Oversee the departments training division to maintain compliance.
• Daily attendance and punctuality are essential functions of the job.
• Perform other duties assigned by immediate supervisor (primary evaluator). 

KNOWLEDGE OF JOB: 

Has considerable knowledge of the policies, procedures, and activities of the district and Police Department practices as they pertain to the performance of duties relating to the job of Criminal Investigator. Has considerable knowledge of local ordinances and of law enforcement practices, policies and procedures as necessary in the completion of daily responsibilities. 

Knows how to develop and administer operations and staff plans and objectives for the expedience and effectiveness of specific duties of the department. Knows how to keep abreast of any changes in policy, methods, computer operations, equipment needs, etc. as they pertain to departmental operations and activities. Is able to effectively communicate and interact with supervisors, members of the general public and all other groups involved in the activities of the department. Is able to assemble information and make written reports and documents in a concise, clear and effective manner. Has good organizational, human relations, and technical skills. Is able to use independent judgment and work with little direct supervision when necessary. Has the ability to comprehend, interpret, and apply regulations, procedures, and related information. Has comprehensive knowledge of terminology, principles, and methods utilized within the department. Has the mathematical ability to handle required calculations. Is knowledgeable and proficient with computers. Is able to follow all precautionary measures when dealing with suspects who are known to be dangerous. Is able to remain clam in emergency and/or life-threatening situations.

OTHER INFORMATION:

Equipment Used: 

Flashlights, radios, handcuffs, and department vehicles 

Mental & Physical Demands/Environmental Factors: 

Reading; ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written) in English; maintain emotional stress under control; exhibit rapid mental decision-making ability to effectively handle disturbances or distractions. Strenuous walking; standing, lifting, and or climbing, ability to operate a motor vehicle; ability to control sudden violet or extreme physical acts of others and exhibit rapid mental and muscular coordination; may be subjected to adverse hazardous conditions; work outdoors in varying climate conditions.