What are the responsibilities and job description for the Social Services Investigator position at Otsego County?
Department of Social Services
Social Services Investigator
LAST DAY FOR FILING: June 9, 2026
EOE
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This position involves research and investigation of potential resources. The work involves the establishment of lines of communications with attorneys, insurance companies and employers as well as with other professionals in the community. The incumbent in this position investigates resources available to an individual to reduce the need for assistance and/or repay assistance granted. The work includes negotiating repayment agreements with prior recipients and the processing of indigent burial applications. This position also involves investigations of potential fraud as determined by evidence obtained. The work is performed under the direction of the Sr. Social Services Investigator and the Director of Income Maintenance. Performs other related duties as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
- Reviews records to determine necessary action.
- Review Social Welfare Examiner’s recommendations verify eligibility, and or determine the additional action necessary to verify eligibility.
- Initiates contact with prior recipients to negotiate repayment agreements of overgrants.
- Interacts with a variety of individuals ie: eligibility staff, attorneys, funeral directors, recipients of assistance, family members, insurance representatives; cooperating agencies to verify client’s eligibility.
- Interviews applicant and recipients, and, as needed, make collateral contacts regarding documentation of eligibility for assistance programs;
- Utilizes a variety of sources to gather information about potential resource availability.
- Preparation and filing of legal documents relative to real property liens, estates, personal injury lawsuits; appears at administrative or judicial proceedings when required to interpret decisions on applications.
- Pursue collections for Temporary Assistance, HEAP and Daycare Program overgrants via income executions and other means.
- Indigent burial applications to include eligibility determination and payment.
- Adheres to federal, state, and local policies and procedures.
- Performs investigations and collects evidence in cases where welfare fraud is suspected; field work will be required.
- Answers correspondence and inquiries concerning resource recovery or fraud investigations.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Good knowledge of resources available to individuals such as real property, bank accounts, insurance policies; good knowledge of legal terminology; working knowledge of federal and state social services and related laws and regulations in regard to resources; ability to be courteous yet firm with the public; ability to analyze facts obtained and use facts in making judgments regarding eligibility; ability to prepare legal documents for filing; ability to analyze facts and financial accounts and use the information to make sound judgments; ability to prepare written correspondence and reports.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and either:
- Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered two (2) year college with an Associate's Degree in business or finance and one (1) year of interviewing or investigating experience; OR
- Three (3) years interviewing or investigating experience; OR
- Three (3) years of experience in work related to gathering and reviewing financial information.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT FOR THE ACCEPTANCE OF APPLICATIONS: A valid New York State driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required at time of appointment and must be maintained during employment (Please submit a copy of your driver's license with your completed application); OR must be able to satisfy the travel requirements of the position throughout employment.
CLASSIFICATION: Competitive
About Otsego County:
Otsego County is a destination with small-town charms and world-class attractions including the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum, a must-see for fans of the game and the ultimate homage to America's Pastime. Discover fine, folk, and Native American art at Fenimore Art Museum, acclaimed and varied performances at the Glimmerglass Festival, craft beer at Brewery Ommegang and the Cooperstown Beverage Trail, plus fresh cider from the Fly Creek Cider Mill, great restaurants, four-season events, and outdoor fun.