County Investigator

DESCRIPTION: Under supervision of the County Prosecutor and the Chief of County Detectives, conducts criminal and related investigations involving violations of federal, state, and local laws; gathers, analyzes, and preserves evidence; prepares investigative reports; assists in the prosecution of criminal cases; and performs related duties as required.

NOTE: The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.

EXAMPLES OF WORK

• Conducts investigations involving criminal offenses, including but not limited to homicide, narcotics, sexual assault, fraud, cybercrime, domestic violence, and public corruption, as well as compliance and enforcement investigations.
• Investigates information on applications and other documents.
• Investigates complaints received from the general public.
• Interviews victims, witnesses, suspects, and confidential informants to obtain information relevant to investigations.
• Collects, preserves, and documents physical, digital, and testimonial evidence in accordance with established procedures and legal requirements.
• Files charges against alleged perpetrators based upon evidence.
• Prepares and executes affidavits, search warrants, subpoenas, and arrest warrants.
• Performs protective surveys, surveillance and undercover operations as assigned.
• Prepares detailed investigative reports and maintains accurate case records.
• Serves legal notices, subpoenas and other documents.
• Assists prosecutors in preparing cases for trial, including organizing evidence and coordinating witness testimony.
• Testifies in court proceedings, grand jury hearings, and administrative hearings.
• Collaborates with municipal, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies on joint investigations.
• Operates departmental vehicles and specialized investigative equipment.
• Uses various types of electronic communications equipment, electronic surveillance equipment, photographic equipment, recording devices, and database software for investigative activities.
• Utilizes criminal justice databases and records management systems to conduct research and investigations.
• Participates in training programs to maintain certifications and stay current on investigative techniques and legal developments and may assist in training other detectives, investigators and police officers.
• May supervise or provide guidance to junior investigators or support personnel as assigned.

EXPERIENCE:

• Three (3) years of experience in law enforcement, criminal investigations, intelligence gathering, or a related field preferred.
• Experience conducting interviews, preparing investigative reports, collecting and preserving evidence, and participating in criminal investigations is preferred.
• Supervisory or specialized investigative experience may be considered an asset.

EDUCATION:

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement, Public Administration, or a related field preferred.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS:

• Possession of a valid New Jersey driver's license.
• Must possess or be eligible to obtain certification from a New Jersey Police Training Commission (PTC)-approved police academy.
• Must be eligible to carry a firearm and successfully maintain annual firearms qualifications.
• Must successfully complete all required background investigations, fingerprinting, psychological evaluations, and medical examinations as required by law and County policy.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of criminal investigation methods and procedures.
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations.
• Knowledge of evidence collection, preservation, and chain of custody requirements.
• Ability to prepare clear and concise reports.
• Ability to analyze information and develop investigative leads.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with law enforcement agencies, court personnel, and the public.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to testify effectively in legal proceedings.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion in sensitive matters.

RATE: $25.22 to $55.37 per hour, commensurate with experience, 40 hours per week

Benefits: Health, Pharmacy, and Dental Insurance, State Pension and Life Insurance, Paid Holidays, and Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, Personal)

Additional Voluntary Benefits: Vision Insurance, Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, Life Insurance, 457(b) Accounts, Credit Union Membership, and Tuition Reimbursement

EEOC

This title is unclassified and noncompetitive through Civil Service

Must be a resident of New Jersey. Preference given to Salem County Residents.