Public Welfare Investigator II

Job Description

Announcement type: Open to the public.

Nature of Work
This is responsible professional investigative and enforcement work involving violations committed in the public assistance program administered by the Division of Public Welfare, Department of Public Health and Social Services. Employees in this class perform the full range of complex professional duties independently on an ongoing basis. Supervision may be exercised over subordinate staff.

Illustrative Examples of Work
Conducts complex investigations relating to compliance with, and/or alleged or suspected violation of federal and local laws, rules and regulations pertaining to public assistance programs. Receives, analyzes and reviews complaints and allegations; conducts casefiles and other in-house record research; conducts case investigation to identify issues involved and types of evidence that will be sought; determines scope, timing and direction; interviews all sources of information. Collects and obtains facts and evidence needed to sustain or refute allegation of violation through field activities and/or office visits; interviews complaints, witnesses or suspects/clients; examines and analyzes records and documents; verifies information obtained to establish the accuracy, credibility and authenticity of facts or evidence; prepares investigation findings citing provisions of laws violated and recommends appropriate actions. Sets up casefiles, securing all information relevant to investigation of benefits abuse. Conducts follow-up investigation of cases referred for prosecution as may be required and determined by prosecuting authority. Assists in the coordination with other local, federal, state, and military agencies, the court, and the Attorney General's Office in connection with case investigation and enforcement of claims collection. Appears as a witness in court on cases referred for prosecution and as required before a grand jury or administrative disqualification hearing. Enforces and monitors recoupment of lost benefits. Contacts client/households to negotiate repayment agreements or update delinquent payments. Coordinates with other jurisdiction and agencies to enhance collection efforts. Performs related duties as required.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills
Knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of interviewing and investigations. Knowledge of the rules of legal evidence relative to the collection, preservation, identification and legal procedures. Ability to lead the work of subordinate staff. Ability to gather facts and information through interview, conduct research, and maintain confidentiality. Ability to enforce laws, rules and regulations and to maintain firmness and impartiality. Ability to interpret, apply and make decisions in accordance with pertinent policies, regulations and other program guidelines. Ability to make sound judgement. Ability to make mathematical computations, correlate evidence and make sound conclusions. Ability to work effectively with employees and the public. Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing. Ability to maintain records and prepare technical reports. Skill in the safe operation of a motor vehicle.

Minimum Experience and Training
A) Two (2) years of experience as a Public Welfare Investigator I or three years of specialized experience as an Eligibility Specialist or Quality Control Reviewer and graduation from a recognized college or university with a Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, police science, social science, business or public administration or related field; OR
B) Any equivalent combination experience and training which provides the minimum knowledge, abilities and skills.

Minimum Education
All new employment in the service of the government of Guam shall have, as a reasonable measure of job performance, minimum requirement of a high school diploma or a successful completion of General Education Development (GED) test or any equivalent of a general education high school program, apprenticeship program or successful completion of a certification program, from a recognized, accredited or certified vocational technical institution, in a specialized field required for the job, pursuant to Public Law 29-113.

Necessary Special Qualifications
A) Possession of a valid motor operator's license.