Investigator IV

A Provider Investigator investigates reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of adults and children with mental illness or intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities. Investigations occur in various settings such as facilities, group homes, and private residences. Investigations are completed by Texas Administrative Code and Provider Investigations policy.

Essential Job Functions:

Conducts interviews concerning the allegation of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

Collects evidence pertinent to the investigation.

Uses critical thinking and sound judgment to analyze evidence related to the allegation.

Writes reports summarizing the facts obtained during the investigations as to whether abuse, neglect, or exploitation occurred.

Communicates professionally and appropriately via all communication mediums.

Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity.

Behaves ethically and adheres to HHSC Standards of Conduct.

Participates in case conferences and meetings with supervisors and peers regarding case progress and disposition.

Participates in continuous training.

Attends work regularly by agency leave policy.

Works occasionally outside of traditional working hours (8 am – 5 pm), which may include evening hours, weekends, and holidays, as required for case-related functions and/or as required by management.

Travels using a personal vehicle. Travel reimbursement provided.

Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations.

Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Knowledge of Provider Investigations agency policies, procedures, and standards.

Knowledge of Texas laws relating to Provider Investigations and protective services.

Knowledge of the population Provider Investigations serves adults and children with mental health issues and intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities.

Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques and skills.

Knowledge of differing cultures/ethnic groups and values.

Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.

Skill in effective verbal and written communication.

Ability to work in a potentially emotion-filled environment.

Ability to operate a computer, tablet, laptop device, smartphone, and various software packages, including Microsoft Office.

Ability to operate standard office equipment, including fax and copy machines.

Ability to conduct interviews in various locations, including private residences, day habilitation facilities, group homes, and state-operated facilities.

Ability to work in environments where violent and dangerous individuals may be present.

Registration or Licensure Requirements:
Valid driver’s license

Initial Selection Criteria:
Willingness to travel.

Willingness to work outside of regular working hours (8 am – 5 pm). Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university.

Additional Information:
All applicants must pass a fingerprint criminal background check.
If you are an active or former licensed nursing facility administrator, certified nurse aide, or medication aide, hiring will be pending until professional licensing and Employee Misconduct Registry checks are completed.
This position requires using the applicant's motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants must have a reliable motor vehicle and a valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the car, passenger, or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of insurance and license.
Newly-hired HHS employees in eligible positions will be assigned an HHS cellular phone and tablet. This position requires travel to and from interviews. This requires working independently while maintaining responsiveness to supervision and assigned units.

Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary; however, the starting salary for this position may not exceed the maximum of the pay group.
For more information about this position, visit the Working for Provider Investigation HHS page (https://hhs.texas.gov/about-hhs/jobs-hhs/provider- investigations-opportunities).


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
These requirements are not exhaustive, and individual agencies may add additional job-related physical requirements on an as-needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, HHS agencies will provide a reasonable accommodation that complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Physical Activities: The employee is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; they are occasionally asked to climb stairs and walk long distances. Due to the position’s driving requirement, the employee frequently gets in and out of their vehicle.
Physical Demands: The employee typically performs work requiring exertion up to 20 pounds occasionally, up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and constant energy to move objects.
Visual Requirements: Employees must see objects clearly at 20 inches or less and 20 or more feet. In addition, they must be able to adjust their eyes to bring things into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in their peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions.
Working Conditions: The employee typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness, humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights.


INTERVIEW REQUIREMENTS:

Any candidate called to an agency for an interview must notify the interviewing agency in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed before the interview date.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the online application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need an accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

MOS Code:
No direct military occupation(s) relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position. All active duty, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply. For more information, see the Texas State Auditor's Military Crosswalk (https://www.hr.txstate.edu/veterans/veteranspreference/militarycrosswalk.html)

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HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.