Apply now Job no: 524598
Work type: Full-time
Location: PHOENIX
Categories: Administrative Support/Customer Service, Legal/Investigations/Adjustment/Compliance, Research, Social Work/Human Services
The mission of the Arizona Ombudsman - Citizens' Aide is to improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and responsiveness of state government by receiving public complaints, investigating the administrative acts of state agencies, and, when warranted, recommending fair and appropriate remedies. In addition, the Arizona Ombudsman - Citizens' Aide promotes open government throughout the state, by providing assistance and education to state and local government officials and members of the public, resolving disputes, and investigating complaints in matters relating to public access laws.
Grade: 01
This position will remain open until filled
The Arizona Ombudsman-Citizens' Aide is looking for a highly motivated individual to join our team as a Senior Investigator Ombudsman. This position will work directly with the public and investigate complaints relating to the Department of Child Safety (DCS), as well as administrative acts of state agencies within the jurisdiction of the office.
The Senior Investigator will research and analyze state statutes, rules, and policies for DCS and draft reports on behalf of the State Ombudsman. The position will also work directly with the public, state legislators, other state officials, other agency representatives, and key stakeholders.
Major duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Research federal, state, and other laws, rules, and regulations pertinent to the area of assignment to determine if programs are effective and in keeping with applicable guidelines
Draft notices and reports, including recommendations, on behalf of the State Ombudsman based on research, analysis, and evaluation of investigation to present to agency directors, the Governor, and the Legislature
Examine and evaluate all available data, analyze results of investigations, and coordinate findings with appropriate administrators and complainants
Establish, develop, and maintain relationships with legislators, legislative staff, Governor's Office staff, counterparts at other agencies, and stakeholders to facilitate communications regarding the purpose and authority of this office, and when appropriate, to investigate complaints
Investigate complaints regarding DCS, as well as the administrative acts of state agencies within the jurisdiction of the office
Conduct and participate in conferences and workshops, committees, and study groups related to DCS and child welfare
Maintain timely and courteous communication with complainants and agency staff during investigations
Become proficient in DCS case management systems to research case records
Maintain proper investigative files by standards set by the State Ombudsman
Develop training and educational material related to DCS, as needed
Performs other duties as assigned
Knowledge:
Methods, techniques, and practices of conducting investigations, examining and evaluating evidence
DCS organizational structure, purpose, covered populations, and services
Arizona state government structure, functions, operations, and processes
Basic techniques for writing concise and comprehensive reports
Arizona Legislature's processes and parliamentary procedures
Case management systems data entry and reporting
Skills:
Highly developed verbal communication skills including public speaking
Advanced research skills (statutory & policy)
Strong organizational and planning skills
Advanced conflict resolution skills
Superior time management skills
Advanced critical thinking skills
Superior interpersonal skills
Coalition-building skills
Critical listening skills
Strong writing skills
Abilities:
Highly capable of evaluating impacts of legislative proposals, rules, and policy on statewide, agency-wide, industry-wide, stakeholder, and member levels
Has superior judgment and a sophisticated sense of discretion in interactions with diverse stakeholders regarding issues that may be complex and confidential
Has a high aptitude for critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and strategic planning regarding complex systems and policies
Uphold the Classical Ombudsman characteristics of independence, impartiality, and confidentiality
Quick to adapt to added information and changing circumstances/priorities
Represent the State Ombudsman's mission, vision, and goals for the office
Maintain a team-oriented, collaborative attitude
Work independently and with little supervision
Highly ethical and dependable
Minimum:
Experience working in a child safety and welfare role or position related to the duties and responsibilities specified in the job description
Bachelor's degree
Preferred:
Experience drafting executive-level reports or other written material for executive-level management
Experience working with the Arizona Legislature or working in the government sector
Master's degree in social work, public administration, or related field
Familiarity with the Department of Child Safety
Familiarity with juvenile and family law
Bilingual: Spanish and English, preferred
Employees who drive on state business are subject to driver license record checks, required to maintain acceptable driving records and complete any required driver training (see Arizona Administrative Code R2-10-207.11)
If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver's License Requirements.
The State of Arizona offers a comprehensive benefits package to include:
Optional employee benefits include short-term disability insurance, deferred compensation plans, and supplemental life insurance
Life insurance and long-term disability insurance
Vacation with 10 paid holidays per year
Health and dental insurance
Retirement plan
Sick leave
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
Positions in this classification participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS)
Note that enrollment eligibility will become effective after 27 weeks of employment
If you have any questions please feel free to contact Shawn McConnell at staffing@azdoa.gov for assistance
Advertised: 21 Feb 2024 US Mountain Standard Time
Applications close:
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