Investigator (Part-Time)

The New York City Department of Correction (DOC) is an integral part of the City’s evolving criminal justice system, participating in reform initiatives and strategies aimed to move the City towards a smaller jail system without compromising public safety.

The DOC is responsible for maintaining a safe and secure environment for our employees, visitors, volunteers, and people in our custody.

Importantly, safe jails enable DOC to provide people in custody with the tools and opportunities they need to successfully re-enter their communities.

The DOC operates facilities and court commands across the five boroughs with more than 7,500 diverse professionals and knowledgeable experts.

The New York City Department of Correction (DOC) provides for the care, custody, and control of persons accused of crimes or convicted and sentenced to one year or less of jail time. The Applicant Investigation Unit (AIU) performs an indispensable function within NYCDOC and is essential to DOCs efforts in conducting thorough background investigations on potential correctional officer candidates via various investigative means and practice. NYCDOC Applicant Investigation Unit is seeking a Confidential Digital Investigator who shall fulfill an integral investigative function. Due to the constant evolution of digital platforms, the ideal candidate must possess strong internet research skills, be tech and cyber savvy and utilize their skillsets to scour an individual’s digital presence for content relevant to the goals of the investigation such as alternate or linked accounts and profiles using advanced search tools, and techniques. Additionally, the desired investigator should have excellent report writing skills, be detail oriented, highly organized and maintain confidentiality during and in relation to the investigative process of the correction officer candidate. Under general supervision, with considerable latitude for independent assessment of content, the identified Confidential Digital Investigator will be responsible for tasks including but not limited to the following:

• Conduct comprehensive background and pre-employment investigations for candidates and personnel. • Coordinate, track, and manage investigative assignments to ensure timely completion of cases. • Conduct investigative interviews with candidates, subjects, and relevant collateral contacts. • Gather, analyze, and verify information obtained through interviews, field visits, digital resources, and authorized database research. • Perform investigative research using internal and external systems, internet resources, public records, and other authorized investigative tools. • Conduct digital media and online investigative activities in support of background investigations, consistent with departmental policies and investigative objectives. •

Identify and verify information relevant to investigative findings, including aliases, identities, affiliations, and other pertinent records. • Verify the authenticity and legitimacy of submitted documents through investigative validation and cross-referencing. • Conduct field visits to residences, businesses, educational institutions, and other relevant locations as required. • Prepare detailed, accurate, and comprehensive investigative reports documenting findings and conclusions. • Maintain investigative files, records, and supporting documentation in accordance with legal, departmental, and confidentiality requirements. • Exercise sound judgment, discretion, and strict confidentiality throughout all phases of the investigative process. • Collaborate closely with investigative counterparts, supervisors, and related units to support ongoing investigations and special assignments. • Assist with pre-employment due diligence, special projects, and perform other related investigative duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance coverage. • Participation in the New York City Employees' Retirement System (NYCERS) pension plan. • Generous paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, personal leave, and designated holidays. • Paid parental leave and Family and Medical Leave (FMLA) benefits, where applicable. • Deferred Compensation (457) and 401(k) retirement savings plans with voluntary employee contributions. • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for healthcare and dependent care expenses. • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides confidential counseling, wellness resources, and work-life support services. • Tuition assistance, professional development, and training opportunities to support career advancement. • Transit and commuter benefits, including pre-tax transportation programs. • Optional life insurance, disability insurance, and supplemental benefit plans. • Opportunities for promotional advancement and career growth within the Department and New York City government. • Access to employee wellness initiatives, financial education resources, and other City-sponsored benefit programs. • Eligibility for overtime

1. A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent and four years of satisfactory full-time experience in one or more of the fields of accounting, auditing, correction administration, criminal justice administration and planning, forensic science, inspection, investigation, law enforcement, personnel administration, police science, and security, or in a major operational area of the agency in which the appointment is to be made; or

2. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college; or

3. Education and/or experience equivalent to "1" or "2" above.

• Demonstrated knowledge of investigative principles, interviewing techniques, and background investigation methodologies. • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to assess complex information, identify inconsistencies, and develop well-supported investigative findings. • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear, concise, and comprehensive investigative reports. • Excellent organizational and time management abilities, with proven experience managing multiple investigations and meeting established deadlines. • High level of integrity, professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment when handling sensitive, confidential, and protected information. • Proficiency in conducting research using authorized databases, public records, and other investigative resources while ensuring accuracy and compliance with applicable policies. • Experience evaluating information from multiple sources to determine credibility, relevance, and investigative value. • Strong attention to detail with the ability to recognize discrepancies, verify information, and maintain accurate investigative documentation. • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal personnel, external agencies, and members of the public. • Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision while contributing effectively in a collaborative team environment. • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other case management, records management, or investigative software applications. • Ability to adapt to changing priorities, manage competing demands, and perform effectively in a fast-paced investigative environment. • Knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures governing background investigations, personnel vetting, and the handling of confidential information. • Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to exercise independent judgment in support of investigative objectives. • Ability to maintain professionalism, impartiality, and confidentiality throughout all phases of the investigative process. • Experience coordinating with law enforcement, governmental agencies, or other authorized entities to facilitate investigative activities and information sharing. • Commitment to ethical standards, accountability, and the highest level of professional conduct in all investigative responsibilities.

The City of New York offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance for the employee and his/her spouse or domestic partner and unemancipated children under age 26, union benefits such as dental and vision coverage, paid annual leave and sick leave, paid holidays, a pension, and optional savings and pre-tax programs such as Deferred Compensation, IRA, and a flexible spending account.

New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment. However, City Employees in certain titles who have worked for the City for 2 continuous years may also be eligible to reside in Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange County. To determine if the residency requirement applies to you, please discuss with the agency representative at the time of interview.