A Criminal Investigator works on criminal cases either as a police detective or private investigator. Investigates people accused of crimes, gathers evidence from crime scene or other searches, reviews evidence gathered by other law enforcement officials. Collects information that may be used for criminal prosecution.
The Augusta County Sheriff's Office is seeking a qualified law enforcement professional for assignment as an Investigator. Investigators perform criminal investigations, gather and analyze evidence, conduct interviews and surveillance, apprehend offenders, prepare comprehensive reports, and assist in the prosecution of criminal cases. This position involves work under emergency conditions and may present considerable personal risk. Investigators are expected to exercise sound judgment, maintain the highest standards of integrity and professionalism, and perform all duties in accordance with applicable laws and Augusta County Sheriff's Office policies and procedures. Narcotics Investigators may, at the discretion of the Sheriff, be assigned to a regional or multi-jurisdictional task force.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Investigate suspicious activity and criminal offenses from initial assignment through logical conclusion. Enforce criminal and traffic laws, make arrests, and serve warrants when warranted. Interview and, when legally appropriate, interrogate suspects, witnesses, complainants, victims, and other involved parties. Gather, preserve, document, and analyze evidence. Conduct surveillance operations and gather intelligence on suspects and criminal activity. Develop and maintain relationships with reliable and confidential sources of information and meet with informants for intelligence-gathering purposes. Conduct background investigations. Photograph, fingerprint, and perform other assigned crime-scene and investigative duties. Maintain detailed evidence logs, ensure proper chain of custody, handle and safeguard evidence in accordance with department policy. Complete requests for laboratory analysis of evidence. Prepare detailed, accurate, and comprehensive investigative reports, records, and case files. Prepare testimony and testify in court as required. Coordinate with the Commonwealth's Attorney and assistants in preparing criminal cases for prosecution in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Maintain effective working relationships with other law enforcement agencies and coordinate joint investigations when appropriate. Respond to complaints and assist fellow deputies and investigators as needed. Provide backup support to other deputies when required. Maintain accurate records and investigative documentation. Follow the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics and maintain professional conduct at all times. Support the chain of command and contribute to the morale, welfare, and professionalism of the department. Perform other related duties, assignments, and responsibilities as required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Successful candidates should demonstrate: Thorough knowledge of police methods, practices, procedures, and investigative techniques. Knowledge of identification and evidence-gathering techniques. Thorough knowledge of department policies and procedures. General knowledge of applicable federal and Virginia laws and county ordinances. Thorough knowledge of Augusta County geography and the location of important buildings and facilities. Ability to analyze evidence and investigative information. Strong interviewing and questioning skills. Ability to prepare clear, concise, accurate, and comprehensive reports. Proficiency with firearms and motor vehicles. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, other law enforcement officials, partner agencies, and the public. Excellent judgment, communication, integrity, discretion, and attention to detail.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
High school diploma or equivalent. Considerable experience as a law enforcement officer. Any combination of education and experience equivalent to the requirements above may be considered. Some college-level coursework beyond high school is preferred.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Possession of a valid driver's license appropriate for operation in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Must meet and maintain all applicable Augusta County Sheriff's Office and Virginia training and education requirements for the position. Must successfully complete specialized schools or training related to Investigator duties as soon as practical before or after appointment to an Investigator assignment. Must maintain all required certifications, qualifications, and training for the position.
BENEFITS
Competitive salary starting at $61,200 - $70,400, DOE Health, dental, and vision insurance Retirement benefits through VRS Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays Opportunities for professional development, specialized training, and certification
HOW TO APPLY
If you are an experienced law enforcement professional ready to take on the challenges and responsibilities of criminal investigations, we encourage you to apply for an Investigator assignment with the Augusta County Sheriff's Office. To apply for this position, applicants must complete a county application and Personal History Questionnaire which can be downloaded from our website at www.co.augusta.va.us . Completed county application and Personal History Questionnaire must be returned to the Augusta County Sheriff's Office, 127 Lee Highway, Verona, VA 24482. Position will be open until filled. Only candidates who are selected for an interview will be contacted. Augusta County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
