Police Civilian Investigator

Interested in expanding your law enforcement to career by keeping our community safe through impactful, hands-on investigative work? If you're energized by solving problems, collaborating with great people, and making a real difference every day, this is the role for you!

Upcoming Salary Increases and Incentives:

3% effective 7/1/2026 2.5% Education Incentive - Bachelor's Degree at time of hire 5% Education Incentive - Master's Degree at time of hire

Application Process:

Applicants will be assessed on the application submitted. Due to the volume of applications received, resumes will not be screened for the purpose of determining who is the most qualified to compete in the testing process. It is the applicant's responsibility to fill out the "Education" and "Work Experience" section of the application with complete information and adequate detail. Do not substitute any part of the application with the words "

SEE RESUME

". The following information is provided for use as a reference and as a planning tool. Human Resources is unable to schedule make-up examinations. Applicants considered to be the most qualified will be invited to continue in the testing process. The Human Resources Department reserves the right to revise the testing process to best meet the needs of the City. Tentative Testing Schedule Online exam links will be sent on Tuesday June 2, 2026. Those invited to testing will have one week to complete the test The City of Modesto is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering, cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Essential Functions:

Investigate criminal felony/misdemeanor cases; review crime and arrest reports and evaluate allegations to determine if a criminal investigation is warranted or refer complainant(s) to appropriate agency; collect and secure evidence and property related to cases; conduct follow-up investigations and write reports, memorandum, and correspondence related to investigations. Respond to and investigate traffic collisions and other traffic-related matters; examine collision scenes, collect and review evidence, interview witnesses and collect statements to determine primary collision factor(s), at-fault party and whether traffic citations or criminal charges are appropriate; prepare diagrams related to investigation findings. Perform administrative and investigative processing of testing, permitting and licensing; conduct compliance and criminal investigations of City businesses related to alcohol, entertainment, and massage parlors. Interview victims, witnesses, and suspects to obtain details, admissions, and leads. Analyze financial documents and related records to establish loss amounts and methods of operation of suspects; prepare charts, diagrams, and other visual aids to demonstrate method of operation and link suspects, victims, and financial institutions. Testify in court as an expert related to assigned criminal cases; maintain proper courtroom demeanor and etiquette while testifying in court. May provide assistance in proceedings leading to the arrest of suspects when probable cause is present; interact with probation/parole officers to determine actions needed. Search for, identify, seize, and book evidence into property; request lab analyses, medical records, motor vehicle records, and other documents needed for evidence in assigned cases. Prepare a variety of reports, declarations, complaints and court documents, and maintain a variety of records, logs and files. Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees, and the public using principles of good customer service. Observe and maintain a safe working environment in compliance with established safety programs and procedures.

Marginal Functions:

Perform related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:

Principles and practices of criminal justice and criminology, crime elements, elements required to establish probable cause for arrest, and current case law. Effective techniques for interviewing and collection evidence. Correct English usage, spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Procedures and techniques for dealing with the public in a tactful but firm manner. Office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.

Ability to:

Triage case load. Learn proper investigative procedures and methods. Understand and carry out oral and written instructions. Use sound judgment in decision making. Prepare accurate and grammatically correct written reports. Preserve confidentiality of sensitive materials. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Operate office equipment including computers and supporting word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications. Experience and Training Guidelines Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Experience:

Two years of performing relevant investigation practices.

Training:

High School diploma or GED equivalency supplemented by specialized training in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field. An Associate's degree is desirable.

License or Certificate:

Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid California driver's license.

Mobility :

frequent use of keyboard; frequent sitting for long periods of time; occasional bending or squatting.

Lifting :

frequently up to 50 pounds; occasionally up to 75 pounds.

Vision :

constant use of overall vision; frequent reading and close-up work; occasional color and depth vision.

Dexterity :

frequent repetitive motion; frequent writing; frequent grasping, holding, and reaching.

Hearing/Talking :

frequent hearing and talking, in person and on the phone.

Emotional/Psychological :

frequent decision-making and concentration; frequent public and/or coworker contact; occasional working alone.

Environmental :

frequent exposure to noise and traffic, chemicals, firearms, controlled substances and biologically contaminated substances.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in either a typical temperature-controlled office environment subject to typical office noise and environment or an outside environment with exposure to a variety of climates, traffic and hazardous situations. Some positions may be assigned to remote locations. Many patrol positions work a rotating schedule with regular weekend and holiday work. Positions require occasional overtime work and travel is rare.

DISASTER SERVICE WORKER

All City of Modesto employees are, by State and Federal law, Disaster Service Workers. In the event of a declaration of emergency, any employee of the City may be assigned to perform activities which promote the protection of public health and safety or the preservation of lives and property.