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Job Details Working Title: Investigative Researcher Job Class: Human Services Program Representative 1 Agency: Human Services Dept Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted : 04/10/2024 Closing Date : 04/16/2024 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Human Services Dept / MAPE DHS Central Office Division/Unit : Office of Inspector General / Background Studies Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift / 8:00am - 4:30pm Days of Work : Monday - Friday Travel Required : No Salary Range: $27.58 - $40.49 / hourly; $57,587 - $84,543 / annually Classified Status : Classified Bargaining Unit/Union : 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE FLSA Status : Nonexempt Telework Eligible : Yes Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes The Department of Human Services is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment.
Make a difference in the lives of Minnesotans. The work you'll do is more than just a job. Join the talented, engaged and inclusive workforce dedicated to creating a better Minnesota.
Job Summary The Background Studies Division operates within the Office of Inspector General under the authority of the Human Services Background Studies Act (245C) and is responsible for conducting background studies required for specific individuals who will have direct contact with vulnerable populations, and/or unsupervised direct contact with vulnerable populations.
The Investigative Researcher accesses a range of study subject records and information that are obtained from specific sources such as online databases, registries, and repositories; including sources maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
This position is accountable for processing a high volume of background studies; study elements and performs complex functions and must meet statutory timeframes for completing and closing out each study.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Conduct and process background studies for study subjects who are required by law to have a completed study for the purposes of employment; and/or for licensed, and/or non-licensed programs (e.g. adult/child foster care, adoption, guardian studies; or for training/education programs facilitated through post-secondary educational institutions) Perform investigative research; requests, retrieves, and reviews individual study subject records and other relevant source material accessed and/or received from specific database search sources, online repositories, and registries. "Determine fitness" of study subjects in accordance with the Background Studies Act - MN Statues 245C. Prepare result notifications and/or results summaries to be distributed to individual study subjects, and/or to other government agencies. Provide customer service and communicate with internal and external stakeholders. Complete administrative and technical tasks associated with ongoing investigatory research and processing of background studies; the work of the division, the Office of Inspector General; and/or the agency administration. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Two (2) years of professional experience conducting research, and/or analysis in a human service, criminal justice or a closely related field demonstrating the following:
Demonstrated knowledge of applicable Background Studies state and federal laws, rules and regulations. Experience in research using electronic database sources, media sources and internet search engines. ***A Bachelor's degree in human services, criminal justice, or related degree may substitute for one (1) year of professional experience.***
Preferred Qualifications Excellent communication skills, including email and telephone etiquette. Analytical, and organizational skills, and able to work with minimal supervision and direction. Ability to set priorities, manage time, multi-task, and meet established deadlines. Results focused, strong aptitude for the evaluation of data/metrics. Report writing skills. Exceptional attention to detail and to accuracy. Variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures. Additional Requirements To facilitate proper crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.
REFERENCE/BACKGROUND CHECKS - The Department of Human Services will conduct reference checks to verify job-related credentials and criminal background check prior to appointment.
Application Details How to Apply Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the job information line at or email . For additional information about the application process, go to
If you have questions about the position, contact Charissa Jones at
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Kelly Ellich at .
If you are an individual with a disability and need an ADA accommodation for an interview, you may contact the Department of Human Services' ADA Coordinator at or for assistance.
About Human Services Dept WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE! The Minnesota Department of Human Services impacts the lives of 1.7 million people every year, helping them meet their basic needs so they can achieve their highest potential.
Why Work for Us Diverse Workforce We are committed to continually developing a workforce that reflects the diversity of our state and the populations we serve. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve the people of Minnesota.
A recent engagement survey of State of Minnesota employees found: 95% of employees understand how their work helps achieve their agency's mission 91% of employees feel trusted to do their jobs 88% of employees feel equipped to look at situations from other cultural perspectives when doing their job 87% of employees report flexibility in their work schedule Comprehensive Benefits Our benefits aim to balance four key elements that make life and work meaningful: health and wellness, financial well-being, professional development, and work/life harmony. As an employee, your benefits may include:
Public pension plan Training and professional development Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Paid parental leave Low-cost medical and dental coverage Prescription drug coverage Vision coverage Wellness programs and resources Employer paid life insurance Short-term and long-term disability Health care spending and savings accounts Dependent care spending account Tax-deferred compensation Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Tuition reimbursement Federal Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. The State of Minnesota recognizes that a diverse workforce is essential and strongly encourages qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply.
We will make reasonable accommodations to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at or email and indicate what assistance is needed.
