Investigator

The Investigator is responsible for conducting thorough, objective, and timely investigations involving incidents and allegations concerning individuals receiving services. This position ensures investigations are completed in accordance with applicable NYS OPWDD Part 624 and Part 625 regulations, NYS SED requirements, and Heartshare policies and procedures. Responsibilities include conducting interviews, gathering and analyzing evidence, preparing comprehensive investigative reports, identifying findings, and developing recommendations to support the safety, protection, and well-being of individuals served. The Investigator also maintains accurate investigation records, meets regulatory reporting deadlines, and collaborates with internal departments and external oversight agencies. 

Essential Functions and Primary Responsibilities of Position: 

• Participates in in-service trainings and on-site workshops as required for professional growth and development.  Attends external trainings and workshops at direction of management.
• Demonstrates an understanding of the purpose of investigations and the importance of protecting individuals receiving services. 

• Conducts thorough, objective, and impartial investigations in accordance with investigator training, agency procedures, and applicable NYS OPWDD Part 624 and Part 625 regulations and NYS SED requirements. 

• Ensures investigations are completed, documented, and submitted within mandated deadlines, providing timely follow-up to OPWDD, the Justice Center, and HeartShare’s Incident Review Committee (IRC), as needed. 

• Reviews incident classifications and develops appropriate investigative questions and interview plans based on the nature of each allegation. 

• Conducts timely, professional, and sensitive interviews; obtains signed written statements and maintains investigator notes as part of the investigation record. 

• Collects and reviews all relevant supporting documentation, including individual service plans, staff records, incident reports, medical documentation, photographs, and prior incident history. 

• Ensures investigative reports clearly summarize evidence, address investigative questions, explain findings, identify delays, and provide relevant recommendations. 

• Ensures required documentation is submitted for abuse and neglect investigations, including OPWDD 163 forms, Immediate Protective Measures, clinical assessments when applicable, and completed files for WSIR uploading. 

• Maintains organized investigation records, archives completed files annually, and assists with annual trends analysis. 

• Collaborates effectively with the Investigations team and other agency departments while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality. 

• Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail, organization, time management, and the ability to prioritize responsibilities and meet deadlines. 

• Works independently, demonstrates initiative, follows through on assignments, and participates in ongoing professional development and required training. 

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, Special Education, Public Administration, or a related field from an accredited four-year college or equivalent. Required 

Experience: 

• One year of direct experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities. 

• Experience in adult services programs, including day and residential services, preferred. 

• Previous investigative experience is a plus. 

Additional Requirements and Qualifications: 

• Strong verbal and written communication skills. 

• Excellent attention to detail. 

• Ability to work effectively with coworkers and individuals at all levels, including administrative, management, and direct support staff. 

• Knowledge of Part 624 and Part 625 regulations, or the ability to learn and apply these regulations. 

• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. 

• Ability to accept and respond appropriately to supervision. 

• Flexibility, a strong work ethic, and willingness to assume additional responsibilities and work beyond normal business hours when required. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access. 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.  

• Constantly required to exchange accurate information 

• Constantly operates a computer and other office tools 

• Frequently required to stand and administer assessments to children and adults  

• Occasionally moves about inside a building 

• Must be able to lift or move up to 25 pounds 

• Travel to other agency sites  

The work environment outlines the physical environment, working conditions and time spent working.  

• Professional office environment with a balance of independent work and cross-functional collaboration. 

• Dynamic human services environment serving diverse populations with a strong focus on compassion, flexibility, and responsiveness. 

• Trauma-informed and client-centered workplace requiring adaptability, professionalism, and teamwork. 

Benefits

What we offer once YOU join our growing family:

At Heartshare we offer a comprehensive benefit package based on full-time/part-time status. You can expect:

• Rewarding Work in a team environment.
• Paid vacation, sick, personal days, and holidays.
• 403(B) retirement plans with employer contribution.
• Health, dental, vision and life insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Flexible spending account (Dependent Care, Medical, Parking, and Transit).
• Employee Appreciation Programs and Events.
• Tuition Assistance Program.
• Professional Development opportunities.
• Gympass Discount
• Verizon Wireless Discount.
• BJs Membership discount.
• Discounts on Broadway tickets, movie tickets, theme parks, sporting events, gift certificates & more

Heartshare is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). If you need to request accommodation during the recruiting process, please reach out to Leaves@heartshare.org.

About Heartshare

Who WE ARE:

For over 150 years, Heartshare has been dedicated to championing and empowering New Yorkers society has too often overlooked and

underestimated.

To learn more about Heartshare, please visit our website at www.heartshare.org or follow us on Twitter LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Facebook

Salary : $65,000