SOCIAL SERVICES INVESTIGATOR
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is research and investigatory work of a specialized character involving the application of appropriate methods and procedures in the investigation of fraud, or alleged fraud perpetrated by public assistance recipients, applicants for relief, vendors and beneficiaries of public services. It includes field work, considerable interaction with other agencies and the general public, and extensive documentation of activities. Investigations are carried out under the direct supervision of a Principle Social Services Investigator. Duties allow incumbents considerable leeway in the exercise of duties. Does related work, as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
Interviews public assistance recipients and applicants and their relatives, friends, employers and others to obtain information and gather evidence concerning possible violation of public assistance laws and regulations;
Investigates reports of missing persons and alleged neglect of children;
May conduct inspections of temporary housing locations throughout the county;
Recommends arrest and prosecution of violators of public assistance laws and regulations, working closely with law enforcement agencies, lawyers, hearing officers, and agency supervisors/administrators; appears in various courts as necessary;
Contacts banks, insurance companies and other financial organizations to determine available assets and funds of applicants and recipients in cases where alleged fraud is suspected;
Secures and interprets evidence in the form of statements, documents, records and exhibits; performs internet searches on a variety of official state/national databases.
Contacts and interviews all parties thought to possess information on cases under investigation; makes e-mail and phone contacts.
Makes field visits to obtain evidence or information, and performs surveillance of individuals’ activities within or outside of the community;
Verifies information by checking with local, state and federal law enforcement authorities;
Writes detailed reports on all activities;
Attends training and meetings as required; serves as back-up to lower level titles in the agency.
The above examples of duties are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND/OR PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Good knowledge of modern investigative techniques used in determining the financial status of individuals; good knowledge of federal and state public assistance laws and other pertinent laws necessary to determine the existence of fraudulent practices; ability to analyze and evaluate information and evidence; ability to obtain information through interview and observation; ability to deal firmly but courteously with the public; ability to prepare written reports and use a computer; ability to communicate and deal effectively with others; ability to make sound judgments; tact; initiative and resourcefulness; emotional maturity; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is required to walk, talk and hear.
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from high school or possession of an appropriate equivalency diploma recognized by the NYS Department of Education, AND EITHER:
A. Graduation from a regionally accredited NYS registered four year college or university with a Bachelor’s degree AND one (1) year of full-time, paid experience in social work or in a position involving substantial contact with the public in interviewing or in an investigative capacity
OR:
B. Graduation from a regionally accredited NYS registered college or university with an Associate’s degree AND five (5) years of full-time, paid experience in social work or in a position involving substantial contact with the public either in interviewing or in an investigative capacity;
OR:
C. Any equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) above.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR APPOINTMENT AND CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT:
Possession of a valid NYS Driver’s license.
Competitive Class
Adopted 9/1/77
Revised 9/16/77, 9/30/98, 2/19/16