Aps Investigator (Trainee)

Would you like to be part of an amazing team that helps Arizonans thrive? At the Department of Economic Security (DES) we strengthen individuals, families, and communities for a better quality of life. DES is looking for individuals who are committed to service, community, and teamwork. To learn more about DES please visit des.az.gov; or click on the link here to view 'Our DES' video. Come Join the DES Team!
Do you have a desire to support the vulnerable? Adult Protective Services (APS) seeks individuals to join our team as an APS Field Investigator. As an investigator, you will investigate allegations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable adults (those unable to defend themselves), 18 years of age or older. This is an ideal position for someone who is highly motivated, has problem solving and decision-making skills, enjoys working independently in the field, and can provide comfort and resources to those who need help. You will interact with adults and family members in their home or care facilities and coordinate with external partners that range from caregivers, medical personnel, police, public fiduciaries, the public, and others in the course of your investigations. If you are passionate about protecting the most vulnerable adults in Arizona, we want you on our team! Please review the video to learn more about the APS Investigator's role and responsibilities - https://vimeo.com/408184827
This position offers the opportunity for incremental pay increases as follows:
Pay during 9 Week New Investigator Training: $21.5021 hourly
Successful completion of 9-week New Investigator Training: $22.5962 hourly
After one (1) year of APS Investigator service: $24.1106 hourly
After two (2) years of APS Investigator service: $25.9616 hourly

Essential duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Investigates, assesses, evaluates, documents, and provides referral of appropriate services
for the most complex case investigations involving vulnerable and incapacitated adults,
18 years of age or older, alleged to be abused, neglected and/or exploited.
Determines if there is a need for protective and/or social services.
Makes time sensitive contacts with clients and interviews anyone who may have
information regarding the situation.
Writes various assessments and summaries regarding the case.
Analyzes a variety of complex documents.

Knowledge of:
Physical and behavioral indicators of neglect and abuse of adults with mental
disabilities or seriously mentally ill and frail elderly
Case investigation and social work practices and principles (e.g., elder rights,
psychological abuse, adult maltreatment, etc.)
Appropriate interventions for a variety of behavioral, developmental, and
psychological symptoms
Skills in:
Oral and written communication
Time management and organization
Critical thinking
Using computer software packages (e.g., Excel, Word, Google Suite, etc.)
Ability to:
Understand and apply Federal and state statutes, APS regulations, policies and
procedures related to reporting of vulnerable adult maltreatment.
Write clear, concise, and accurate reports.
Quickly assess, prioritize, and process report cases when received.
Handle clients and callers in a professional, calm manner eliciting information
quickly and efficiently.

The ideal candidate for this position will have:
Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice, Rehabilitation,
Healthcare, or closely related field OR

1 year of experience providing professional case management/investigation services (Intake, Needs Assessment, Service Planning, and Monitoring and Evaluation)  

In-state travel is required. Driver's License Requirements. Any employee operating a motor vehicle on State business must possess and retain a current, valid class-appropriate driver's license, complete all required training, and successfully pass all necessary driver's license record checks. The license must be current, unexpired, and neither revoked nor suspended. Employees who drive on state business are subject to driver's license record checks, must maintain acceptable driving records, and must complete all required driver training. An employee who operates a personally owned vehicle on state business shall maintain the statutorily required liability insurance (see Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) R2-10-207.11).
Successfully pass background and reference checks; employment is contingent upon completion of the above-mentioned process and the agency's ability to reasonably accommodate any restrictions.
Candidates for this position shall be subject to a search of both the Child Protective Services Central Registry pursuant to A.R.S. 8-804 and the Adult Protective Services Registry pursuant to A.R.S. 46-459.
A.R.S. 41-1968 Each employee of the department who has contact with children or vulnerable adults shall have a valid, unrestricted Level One fingerprint clearance card issued pursuant to section A.R.S. 41-1758.07.
All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).
Flexibility in willingness to work longer shift hours or after-hours coverage, if necessary.

The Arizona Department of Economic Security offers a comprehensive benefits package to include:
Affordable medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plans
Participation in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) and long-term disability plans
10 paid holidays per year
Vacation time accrued at 4.00 hours bi-weekly for the first 3 years
Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child (pilot program).
Sick time accrued at 3.70 hours bi-weekly
Deferred compensation plan
Wellness plans
Tuition Reimbursement
Stipend Opportunities
Infant at Work Program
Rideshare and Public Transit Subsidy
Career Advancement & Employee Development Opportunities
Flexible schedules to create a work/life balance

Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave pilot program here. For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

State employees are required to participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS), the State sponsored retirement contribution plan and the Long-Term Disability (LTD) program after a 27-week waiting period. The ASRS defined benefit plan provides for life-long income upon retirement. You will also have the option to participate in a voluntary deferred compensation program to take advantage of tax-deferred retirement investments.
On, or shortly after, your first day of work you will be provided with additional information about the available insurance plans, enrollment instructions, submission deadlines and effective dates.

For questions about this career opportunity, please contact Brenda Vega at 520- 279-4525 or BVega@azdes.gov.
The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by contacting Brenda Vega at 520- 279-4525 or BVega@azdes.gov. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.