Under supervision of the County Prosecutor and the Chief of County Detectives, conducts criminal and related investigations involving violations of federal, state, and local laws; gathers, analyzes, and preserves evidence; prepares investigative reports; assists in the prosecution of criminal cases; and performs related duties as required.

NOTE: The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.

EXAMPLES OF WORK

• Conducts investigations involving criminal offenses, including but not limited to homicide, narcotics, sexual assault, fraud, cybercrime, domestic violence, and public corruption, as well as compliance and enforcement investigations.
• Investigates information on applications and other documents.
• Investigates complaints received from the general public.
• Interviews victims, witnesses, suspects, and confidential informants to obtain information relevant to investigations.
• Collects, preserves, and documents physical, digital, and testimonial evidence in accordance with established procedures and legal requirements.
• Files charges against alleged perpetrators based upon evidence.
• Prepares and executes affidavits, search warrants, subpoenas, and arrest warrants.
• Performs protective surveys, surveillance and undercover operations as assigned.
• Prepares detailed investigative reports and maintains accurate case records.
• Serves legal notices, subpoenas and other documents.
• Assists prosecutors in preparing cases for trial, including organizing evidence and coordinating witness testimony.
• Testifies in court proceedings, grand jury hearings, and administrative hearings.
• Collaborates with municipal, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies on joint investigations.
• Operates departmental vehicles and specialized investigative equipment.
• Uses various types of electronic communications equipment, electronic surveillance equipment, photographic equipment, recording devices, and database software for investigative activities.
• Utilizes criminal justice databases and records management systems to conduct research and investigations.
• Participates in training programs to maintain certifications and stay current on investigative techniques and legal developments and may assist in training other detectives, investigators and police officers.
• May supervise or provide guidance to junior investigators or support personnel as assigned.

EXPERIENCE:

• Three (3) years of experience in law enforcement, criminal investigations, intelligence gathering, or a related field preferred.
• Experience conducting interviews, preparing investigative reports, collecting and preserving evidence, and participating in criminal investigations is preferred.
• Supervisory or specialized investigative experience may be considered an asset.

EDUCATION:

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement, Public Administration, or a related field preferred.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS:

• Possession of a valid New Jersey driver's license.
• Must possess or be eligible to obtain certification from a New Jersey Police Training Commission (PTC)-approved police academy.
• Must be eligible to carry a firearm and successfully maintain annual firearms qualifications.
• Must successfully complete all required background investigations, fingerprinting, psychological evaluations, and medical examinations as required by law and County policy.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of criminal investigation methods and procedures.
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations.
• Knowledge of evidence collection, preservation, and chain of custody requirements.
• Ability to prepare clear and concise reports.
• Ability to analyze information and develop investigative leads.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with law enforcement agencies, court personnel, and the public.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to testify effectively in legal proceedings.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion in sensitive matters.

RATE: $25.22 to $55.37 per hour, commensurate with experience, 40 hours per week

Benefits: Health, Pharmacy, and Dental Insurance, State Pension and Life Insurance, Paid Holidays, and Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, Personal)

Additional Voluntary Benefits: Vision Insurance, Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, Life Insurance, 457(b) Accounts, Credit Union Membership, and Tuition Reimbursement

This title is unclassified and noncompetitive through Civil Service

Must be a resident of New Jersey. Preference given to Salem County Residents.