DSHS OOS Investigator 2

DSHS OOS – Investigator 2

The Department of Social and Health Services is seeking an Investigator 2 to join the Office of Fraud and Accountability which is a Limited Authority Law Enforcement Agency (Washington Law RCW 10.93.020). This position has a duty station of Kent, in King County, and mostly serves a two-hour commuting radius for investigating. 

In this position, you will conduct impartial and complex investigations into alleged public assistance fraud within the Fraud Early Detection program. These investigations help ensure that public funds and benefits are used appropriately and support the department’s mission to protect the integrity of essential services.

You will conduct field-based investigations into allegations involving theft, forgery, perjury, trafficking and unlawful receipt of public assistance benefits. Your work will include interviewing witnessesand suspects, gathering and analyzing evidence, checking EBT prohibited locations, and preparing clear, factual reports that can be used in administrative or court proceedings. You will complete investigations in accordance with the Office of Fraud and Accountability Investigative Guidelines and Procedures, applying sound judgment and professional ethics in every case. You will mostly work independently, carrying a diverse workload.

• Conduct complex fraud investigations involving theft, forgery, perjury, and unlawful receipt of public assistance, including Fraud Early Detection (FRED) investigations.
• Investigate allegations related to Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) misuse, childcare fraud, and vendor or provider overbilling; collaborate with local, state, or federal agencies on multi-jurisdictional cases as needed.
• Perform detailed evidence analysis using database research, fieldwork, and interviews to identify program violations and support findings.
• Gather, evaluate, and preserve physical and documentary evidence in accordance with Office of Fraud and Accountability (OFA) procedures and Washington State law.
• Interview witnesses and suspects in various settings—including homes, community sites, and Community Services Offices (CSOs)—to obtain statements and conduct surveillance when necessary.
• Prepare and deliver clear, comprehensive investigative reports that support criminal or administrative actions and program integrity recommendations.
• Testify in administrative hearings or court proceedings and assist with preparation for legal actions related to investigations.
• Perform administrative duties including timekeeping, safety reporting, and calendar updates to support compliance and field safety protocols.
• Conduct prohibited EBT location checks in casinos, taverns, tattoo parlors and other prohibited locations.  
  
  

• One year of experience as an Investigator 1.
  OR
• Three years of experience conducting investigations with a criminal justice government agency, private organization, determining eligibility for government programs, or in another closely related field.

• Investigative skills: Ability to conduct thorough and objective investigations, including evidence collection, analysis and documentation.
• Knowledge of laws and procedures: Understanding of investigative principles, rules of evidence, chain of custody, and laws of search and seizure.
• Analytical ability: Skill in reviewing complex information and drawing logical, fact-based conclusions that support program integrity.
• Interviewing skill: Ability to question witnesses and suspects effectively and respectfully to obtain accurate, reliable information.
• Program knowledge: Familiarity with Washington’s public assistance programs, including Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance and childcare assistance.
• Written communication: Capacity to produce clear, concise and well-organized investigative reports.
• Verbal communication: Ability to present information effectively to clients, coworkers, law enforcement and the courts.
• Technology proficiency: Competence using computers and office systems to access, analyze and document case information.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to manage shifting priorities, deadlines and field conditions while maintaining professionalism.
• Safety awareness: Commitment to field safety procedures, confidentiality and adherence to all departmental policies.
• Confidence working independently: Ability to work with little supervision while meeting performance expectations.

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protect­ed veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
 

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