What are the responsibilities and job description for the INVESTIGATOR position at Department of Health Care Services?
Job Posting: Investigator
Department of Health Care Services
JC-523381
Investigator
INVESTIGATOR
INVESTIGATOR
$6,339.00 - $10,609.00 per Month
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
Final Filing Date: 7/20/2026
Job Description and Duties
Why Join DHCS?
The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) is the backbone of California’s health care safety net. Our success is made possible by the hard work of more than 4,800 DHCS team members and through collaboration with the federal government and other state agencies, counties, and partners for the care of low-income families, children, pregnant women, older adults, and persons with disabilities. This is an exciting opportunity to join our diverse team in the following role. If you are interested in joining our team, apply today!
About this Role:
The Investigator conducts full and complete criminal/civil investigations into allegations of fraud perpetrated against the California Medical Assistance Program (Medi-Cal) and other programs under the review of the Department of Health Care Services. All Investigators, Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), are peace officers under California Penal Code, Section 830.3(h) which performs investigative duties comparable to other peace officers.
DHCS Audits & Investigations (A&I) Division utilizes a field based investigative model which requires investigative staff to leave directly and return to their residences or secured parking location for field assignments at the beginning and at the end of each work day; investigative staff are provided state law enforcement vehicles to perform their field duties, and although A&I maintains regional field offices, investigative staff spend a minimum of 90 percent of their assignments in the field, and only coming to their assigned office to accomplish those tasks which cannot be completed in the field.
- During the course of their employment, they are required to carry a firearm and be proficient in its use.
- Maintain a neat personal appearance and wear plain clothes while maintaining firearm concealment.
- Ability to analyze situations accurately, draw valid conclusions, and take an immediate and effective course of action during stressful or adverse conditions
- Willingness to travel throughout the state of California based on business needs; gather and analyze facts and evidence; reason logically, draw valid conclusions, and make appropriate recommendations; recognize and respect diversity through words and actions; effectively investigate allegations of misconduct pursuant to departmental policy; treat all people with respect and in an unbiased and unprejudiced manner.
This recruitment has been posted for more vacancies than currently exist as it may be used to fill additional identical vacancies which occur within 180 days of the closing date of this bulletin. At least one position(s) require(s) fluency in a bilingual language. If the State of California does not have a current record documenting your fluency in this language, you will be required to successfully pass an approved language fluency test prior to being hired.
If you are interested in this position, it is critical to review the Classification Specifications to determine if you will meet the minimum qualifications (MQ’s). Please make note of the Education and Experience requirements for the classification.
Please submit a Standard State Employment Application Form (STD 678). Applications will be screened and only the most qualified candidates will be interviewed. Failure to complete the STD. 678 in its entirety may result in disqualification.
Electronic applications are highly encouraged.
Have questions and/or need assistance? Contact recruit@dhcs.ca.gov, we are here to help walk you through the state hiring process!
This position is subject to the Department’s Conflict of Interest Code and filing a Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700) when assuming this position, annually by April 1, and when leaving this position.You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Working Conditions
Please see the Telework and Salary Information section below for telework, reporting location, and temporary statewide salary reduction details.
Position Details
Job Code #:
JC-523381
Position #(s):
806-301-8610-XXX
Working Title:
Investigator
Classification:
INVESTIGATOR
$6,339.00 - $10,609.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information
DHCS’ purpose is to provide equitable access to quality health care leading to a healthy California for all.
DHCS is a dynamic organization with ambitious goals and talented, committed employees. We work hard every day to fulfill our vital responsibility to support the delivery of quality health care to Californians. DHCS is committed to addressing disparities within our organization and in our communities through efforts toward greater diversity, equity, and inclusion. This is accomplished, in part, by a commitment toward employing a diverse workforce that reflects the many communities we serve, and by promoting and enforcing equal employment opportunity.
Take a look at some of DHCS' recent projects and happenings that our Department has accomplished in the DHCS Newsroom.
A&I is seeking a candidate to join as an Investigator. Please direct all questions to the hiring unit contact listed in this job posting.
Special Requirements
- The position(s) require(s) a Drug Screening be passed prior to being hired.
- The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.
- The position(s) require(s) Medical Clearance prior to being hired.
- The position(s) require(s) Psychological Evaluation clearance prior to being hired.
Successful candidates are required to submit to a background investigation process, including mandatory electronic fingerprinting via the California Department of Justice (DOJ) Live Scan system. The final candidate must successfully pass a criminal history background check before final appointment can be made.
Simple Application Steps
If you are interested in this position, complete the following simple steps:
- Review the education and experience minimum qualifications (MQ’s) of the Investigator Classification: Investigator. See the Minimum Requirements section above.
- Complete the state application by clicking “Apply Now” above. See below for detailed application instructions.
- Submit your application package with all required documents - see the "Required Application Package Documents" section below.
Individuals who claim eligibility must have a reachable placement on the appropriate certification list for a classification they apply to.
This position is eligible for an Automatic Hiring Above Minimum salary of $6,974.
Bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 7/20/2026Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Individuals who are eligible for a Training and Development assignment may also be considered for this position(s).
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Health Care Services
Mailing
Attn: Certification Technician JC-505337
M.S. 1300
P.O. Box 997411
Sacramento, CA 95899-7411
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Health Care Services
Drop-Off
Certification Section JC-505337
1501 Capitol Avenue, Suite 71.1501
Sacramento, CA 95814
Monday – Friday (excluding holidays)
08:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
- Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
- Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
Desirable Qualifications
In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
This position requires the incumbent to maintain consistent and regular attendance; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, when interacting with others; develop and maintain knowledge and skills related to specific tasks, methodologies, materials, tools, and equipment; complete assignments in a timely manner; and adhere to departmental policies and procedures regarding attendance and conduct.
Desirable skills include:
- Investigative experience with criminal and/or administrative investigations
- Willingness to conduct field work and interaction with the public in a variety of settings
- Possession of a POST Basic certificate or completion of a POST certified basic academy within the past two years.
Benefits
DHCS is dedicated to creating an innovative workplace for its team members that is inclusive, diverse, and interactive! Here are a few of the ways we stay engaged with our team:
- Continuous and ongoing training
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program activities
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Additionally, as a team member of the State of California, you may be eligible for many benefits, such as:
- Medical, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid Holidays and vacation/leave
- Defined retirement program
- Savings Plus Program (401(k), 457)
- Medical/Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts
- Candidates may have an opportunity to receive bilingual pay, contingent they meet CalHR requirements
- Qualified candidates may be eligible to receive educational incentive
Full benefits information can be found on CalHR's California State Civil Service Employee Benefits Summary
DHCS 2023-2027 Strategic Plan provides more information about our commitment to serving Californians and organizational excellence.
We need your help! Please let us know how you heard about our position by taking this brief optional survey: SurveyMonkey link. This survey is not required to be considered for this position.
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Hiring Unit Contact:
Deanna Nelson
(916) 531-7440
Deanna.Nelson@dhcs.ca.gov
Deanna Nelson
(916) 531-7440
Deanna.Nelson@dhcs.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:EEO Officer
(916) 440-7370
civilrights@dhcs.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Telework and Salary Information
Telework: This position is currently designated as a field-based position that regularly conducts site visits and interacts with health care partners, providers, or others.
The position(s) is eligible for hybrid telework, in accordance with the Statewide Telework Policy and will be required to report to the office as needed/required. The successful candidate must reside in California upon appointment. Regular and consistent attendance is critical to the successful performance of this position. You must be regularly available and willing to work the hours necessary to meet business needs”
Business travel may be required, and reimbursement considers an employee’s designated office and residence subject to regulations and bargaining unit contract provisions. All commute expenses to the reporting location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
Salary: Effective July 1, 2025, the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) implemented the temporary Personal Leave Program 2025 (PLP 2025). PLP 2025 directs that each employee receive a temporary reduction in pay in exchange for PLP 2025 leave credits. The temporary salary reduction percentage and the number of PLP 2025 leave credits are based on the position’s associated bargaining unit. The salary range(s) included in this job advertisement do not include the temporary salary reduction. Please reach out to the hiring unit contact listed on this job advertisement for details.
Additional Information
Using the online application system as specified in the announcement is the preferred method of applying for civil service job opportunities; however, applicants may instead apply by way of U.S. mail, parcel delivery or courier service, or in person, as set forth in this announcement.
Paper applications must include a signature. Dates printed on envelopes by mobile barcodes or equivalent mobile print technology are not acceptable proof of the date the application and any other required documents or materials were filed.
Applicants must state their basis of eligibility (List Eligibility, Lateral Transfer, Reinstatement, T&D, or Surplus/SROA), and the Job Control (JC) number and/or position number in the “Examination(s) or Job Title(s), For Which You Are Applying” section on the STD. 678. Surplus/SROA candidates should submit a copy of their letter with their application. Please remove any confidential information (i.e., social security number, date of birth, etc.) as well as any information regarding your LEAP eligibility and/or exam scores from your documents prior to submission.
All information on the Employment Application (STD 678) must be completed. Applicants should include all employment history on the Employment Application (STD 678), including detailed job descriptions, hours worked per week, and start/end dates (MM/DD/YYYY). Resumes or other documents may not be substituted for the Employment Application (STD 678).
If applying electronically, please note that CalCareers no longer allows applicants to withdraw their applications. If you need assistance to withdraw your application, please contact the Recruitment Section at recruit@dhcs.ca.gov. For all other questions regarding your CalCareer account, please contact CalHR’s CalCareers Unit at (866) 844-8671 or calcareer@calhr.ca.gov.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.
Benefits:
Pension Plan, Health Insurance, Vacation & Paid Time OffSalary : $6,339 - $10,609