Criminal Investigator

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At Calhoun County, you’ll find more than just a job, you’ll find purpose. Our employees make a meaningful impact every day by serving our community. Whether you’re supporting essential services, improving local systems, or helping residents thrive, your work contributes to something bigger. We’re proud to foster a collaborative, supportive workplace where people are valued for their ideas and dedication to public service. If you’re looking for a career that makes a difference, we invite you to explore opportunities with Calhoun County Government.

Summary

Under the general direction of the Managing Criminal Investigator, conducts investigatory activities to assist with locating and developing information and evidence to assist with the defense of clients in criminal court proceedings. Conduct interviews of clients, suspects, witnesses and victims, or other parties related to case investigation. Retrieves evidence and serves as a liaison to outside agencies. Serve subpoenas and other duties as required.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

1. Independently conducts complex and sensitive investigations for misdemeanor and felony cases collecting information to be used to verify evidence or substantiate innocence.
2. Locates, obtains, evaluates, records, and preserves evidence from a variety of sources, as well as interviews victims, witnesses, and other individuals that may have information related to the case.
3. Serves subpoenas to those required to testify or submit evidence before the court.
4. Prepares reports regarding contacts and findings, including statements, scene descriptions, and analysis of physical evidence.
5. Provides testimony in court and/or applicable proceedings regarding facts established by investigation as needed.
6. Develops and maintains a variety of community and informant contacts so that information can be gathered for relevant cases.
7. Confers with attorneys regarding the investigations, preparation, and processing of cases.
8. Prepares correspondence and other written materials, as well as properly maintaining records both in paper and automated forms.
9. Operates and maintains a variety of photographic, tape, graphic and projection equipment.
10. Remains current with legal, technical, and forensic developments involving investigative work by attending seminars, conferences and other training opportunities.
11. Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications

• The job requires knowledge normally acquired through the completion of an associate degree in criminal justice and four to six years of investigative experience, or a combination of education and experience that provide the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered. 
• Concealed weapons permit preferred.
• Must be a licensed Professional Investigator in the State of Michigan or be eligible to obtain a Professional Investigator’s License.
• Knowledge of the techniques, principles and methods used in civil and criminal investigations, including gathering, evaluating, screening, and preserving evidence, from a variety of sources to assist with preparing exhibits for trial, and laboratory procedures related to the investigation of a crime.
• Computer skills necessary to effectively utilize word processor, databases, spreadsheets and presentation software applications for the creation and compilation of various documents, communications, and reports.  Ability to use the Internet and e-mail.
• Possess a valid Michigan vehicle operator’s license and an acceptable driving record.
• The ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing, including to read and interpret documents, prepare reports and correspondence, and to present information and respond to questions.
• Reasoning skills needed to define and solve problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Mental ability to simultaneously handle multiple projects requiring concentration and attention to detail with frequent disruptions due to people and/or phone calls. Frequent pressures related to deadlines, fulfilling scheduling requirements, and dealing with concerns of citizens, employees, elected officials, etc.
• Professionalism is an absolute necessity, along with the ability to appropriately handle both confidential information and sensitive situations.

Supervisory Responsibilities                     

• None

 Working Conditions

Hybrid Work Classification: Hybrid eligible
Flexibility Classification: Flexible schedule eligible

• Normal office environment with occasional discomfort due to heat, dust, and noise, but work could include periodic outdoor conditions with exposure to extreme hot or cold weather.
• Frequent exposure to significant pressures related to highly sensitive, hazardous, and/or mentally demanding situations outside the workplace.
• Extended workdays (beyond 8 hours/day or Saturday/Sunday) are occasionally required.
• On-call availability to handle work problems, attend meetings, handle emergencies/crisis situations, etc. at all hours is occasionally required.
• Frequent travel is required within Calhoun County and occasional required outside of the County.
• Physical ability to occasionally lift, push, pull, or carry items weighting up to ten pounds.
• Physical ability to talk, hear, and communicate verbally with others.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• Occasionally required to perform tasks involving repetitive movement, bending, stooping, kneeling and/or climbing.
• Frequently required to sit for extended periods of time.

Why You’ll Love Working Here
Calhoun County Government offers benefits designed to support your wellbeing at work and beyond. Our employees enjoy competitive pay, health and retirement plans, generous time off, and opportunities for professional growth. Benefits for 40 hours/week positions are highlighted below:

• Paid Time Off: 6.47 hours per pay period (hourly) or 4.2 weeks annually (salaried)
• Holidays: Enjoy 14 paid holidays per year
• Flexibility: Hybrid and flexible scheduling for eligible positions
• Retirement: 401(k) with up to 7% County match
• Near-Site Clinic: Convenient preventative and primary care with on-site medications
• Education: Up to $3,000 annually in tuition reimbursement

Learn more about our benefits at www.calhouncountymi.gov/employee_benefits
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