Staff Investigator

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Investigations Unit is actively searching for an inquisitive, thorough, and committed Staff Investigator. We, at the Investigations Division, are committed to safeguarding individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Our division receives over 6,000 annual allegations of abuse, encompassing everything from minor program issues to serious criminal conduct like rape, assault, and theft, and our work plays a crucial role in building a safer future for those who are most vulnerable. The Staff Investigator performs risk assessments to ensure that timely recommendations for protective services are made to protect DDS clients who are alleged victims. The incumbent gathers and reviews all relevant documentation and evidence, including Individual Service Plans, Behavior Plans, DDS and DDS Provider Incident Reports, Police Reports, Medical Records, Surveillance Video and Pictures. The incumbent works with state and local law enforcement authorities to successfully investigate criminal acts. They may testify during DDS employee hearings and are required to provide court testimony in criminal cases as requested. The incumbent prepares reports and makes recommendations designed to enhance the health and welfare of not only individual victims but all DDS clients including clients at provider organizations. The incumbent contributes to the agency’s mission by identifying factors that may adversely impact the welfare of its clients.

Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all-inclusive):

- Review allegations to create an investigative plan and perform an immediate risk assessment to ensure that timely recommendations for protective services are made to protect DDS clients who are alleged victims.
- Travel to and from various sites throughout the Commonwealth to conduct interviews, gather documentation and other evidence to aid in determining whether an allegation is substantiated or not.
- Review testimony and information gathered to determine if referral to state and/or local law enforcement authorities to successfully investigate criminal acts is warranted.
- Review totality of information to prepare concise yet thorough investigation reports, detailing findings in accordance with MGL c19C and/or 115 CMR 9.00.
- Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications :

- Knowledge of investigative principles and practices, including evidence collection, interviewing techniques, and case documentation.
- Knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, and policies related to abuse, neglect, human rights, and protections for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to evaluate complex information, assess credibility, and make sound, evidence-based determinations.
- Ability to conduct sensitive, trauma-informed interviews with diverse populations, including vulnerable individuals with varying communication needs.
- Excellent written communication skills to prepare clear, concise, and comprehensive investigative reports and recommendations.
- Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with clients, families, providers, law enforcement, and other stakeholders.
- Ability to assess risk and make timely decisions regarding protective actions and interventions in emergent situations.
- Knowledge of disability services systems, including service planning, behavioral supports, and provider operations.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion when handling sensitive and protected information.
-  Skill in collaboration and coordination with external agencies, including law enforcement and legal entities.
- Ability to work independently and manage a high-volume caseload, including prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines.
- Ability to travel and respond to incidents across various settings, including availability beyond standard business hours.

Please Note:

This position is located in Springfield

Schedule:  Monday-Friday

Days Off:   Saturday/Sunday

Flexibility required to meet the needs of the program/area office.

About the Department of Developmental Services: 

The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly oversees and manages $3 billion in public funds ($2.7B+ operating budget) and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.

For more information about our agency and programs visit: www.mass.gov/dds 

Pre-Hire Process:

Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Record Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.

·       Education, licensure, and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines.

Recommended candidates must successfully complete pre-employment screening which includes:

·       Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) Abuse Registry Search:  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dppc-abuser-registry

·       Criminal background check (CORI) by regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori

·       National Background Checks, Chapter 234 of the Acts of 2014, conduct fingerprint-based check. https://www.mass.gov/lists/dds-fingerprint-background-checks

​​​​​​​ADA Reasonable Accommodation:

If you require a reasonable accommodation with the application/interview process, please contact us at: EOHHS Candidate ADA Requests

For technical help with MassCareers, including logging into your profile and/or resetting your password, please call the Employee Service Center at 617-979-8500 for assistance.

For questions regarding this requisition, please contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Human Resources at 1-800-510-4122 Ext. #4.

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

 Minimum Entrance Requirements: Applicants must have at least (A) four years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, experience in investigatory or law enforcement work, or regulatory administration work (B) and equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.

Substitutions:

 A Bachelor's or higher degree may be substituted for a maximum of the two years of the required experience.*

*Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.

  Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate’s years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.  Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.  Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements.  We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.