Senior Investigator - Investigation Specialist
Minnesota Department of Education, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, 55400
Job Details
Job ID: 91839
Location: Minneapolis
Telework Eligible: Yes - Up to 50%
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted: 02/02/2026
Closing Date: 02/23/2026
Bid Open: 02/02/2026
Bid Close: 02/09/2026
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Education Department / MDE-Central Office-MAPE
Division/Unit: Education-St Paul / Special Investigations Unit
Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
Days of Work: Monday - Friday
Travel Required: Yes - Up to 50%
Salary Range: $32.40 - $47.76 / hourly; $67,651 - $99,722 / annually
Classified Status: Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
FLSA Status: Nonexempt
Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well‑being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Responsibilities As a Senior Investigator in the Office of Inspector General with the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), you will plan, coordinate, and conduct fraud, waste, or abuse investigations in MDE's public programs. Responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
Conducting interviews.
Obtaining and reviewing records and other evidence.
Utilize multiple systems to gather and maintain relevant data and evidence.
Document investigative activity timely, accurately and completely.
Collaborate and cooperate with law enforcement and criminal prosecutors on investigations.
Recommend civil and/or administrative actions to MDE during or at the conclusion of an investigation and/or prosecution.
Minimum Qualifications
4 years of recent professional experience as an investigator, auditor or analyst; OR
A bachelor's or master's degree in Business, Accounting, Criminal Justice or Legal, or an equivalent degree and 3 years of recent professional experience as an investigator, auditor or analyst.
Experience conducting criminal, civil or administrative investigations, audits or analysis.
Experience in investigative practices and techniques, including interviewing, report writing, document and/or evidence management and reviews.
Knowledge of legal standards and procedures applicable to investigations, for example due process, evidence management, and interviewing.
Ability to learn and operate a variety of data systems, equipment and tools used in investigations.
Ability to work independently and as a member of a team to deliver high quality work.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs, including Word and Excel.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Forensic Investigator (CFI), or Certified Financial Crimes Specialist (CFCI), or equivalent certification.
Interview training, such as Reid, Wickland‑Zulawski or equivalent.
Experience conducting financial investigations, audits, or analysis.
Experience in financial crimes investigations.
Experience in accounting practices, including skills to identify and reconcile accounts using reports, queries, spreadsheets and available tools and information.
Additional Requirements
A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. The background check may consist of the following components:
SEMA4 Records Check (applies to current and former state employees only)
Employment Reference Check
Conflict of Interest Review
Driver's License Check
Criminal Background Check
The Minnesota Department of Education will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.
How to Apply Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Kate Elling at katherine.elling@state.mn.us or 651-582-8558. To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Kate Elling at katherine.elling@state.mn.us.
Veterans To be considered with Veteran's Status, you MUST indicate this on your application and submit a copy of your DD‑214 form and other required documentation to katherine.elling@state.mn.us by the closing date. Recently Separated Veterans (RSV): Effective July 1, 2009, legislation provides that the top five RSV applicants who apply and meet the qualifications for a vacancy shall be granted an interview. Certain Disabled Veterans: Effective August 1, 2012, legislation provides state agencies with the option to appoint certain disabled veterans on a non‑competitive basis. See the above links for criteria and eligibility.
Benefits
Paid vacation and sick leave
12 paid holidays each year
Low‑cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
Fertility care, including IVF
Diabetes care
Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
Tax‑free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well‑being
Training, classes, and professional development
Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)
A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well‑being, or job performance (Employee Assistance Program)
Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran‑friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applicants With Disabilities Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
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Job ID: 91839
Location: Minneapolis
Telework Eligible: Yes - Up to 50%
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted: 02/02/2026
Closing Date: 02/23/2026
Bid Open: 02/02/2026
Bid Close: 02/09/2026
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Education Department / MDE-Central Office-MAPE
Division/Unit: Education-St Paul / Special Investigations Unit
Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
Days of Work: Monday - Friday
Travel Required: Yes - Up to 50%
Salary Range: $32.40 - $47.76 / hourly; $67,651 - $99,722 / annually
Classified Status: Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
FLSA Status: Nonexempt
Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well‑being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Responsibilities As a Senior Investigator in the Office of Inspector General with the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), you will plan, coordinate, and conduct fraud, waste, or abuse investigations in MDE's public programs. Responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
Conducting interviews.
Obtaining and reviewing records and other evidence.
Utilize multiple systems to gather and maintain relevant data and evidence.
Document investigative activity timely, accurately and completely.
Collaborate and cooperate with law enforcement and criminal prosecutors on investigations.
Recommend civil and/or administrative actions to MDE during or at the conclusion of an investigation and/or prosecution.
Minimum Qualifications
4 years of recent professional experience as an investigator, auditor or analyst; OR
A bachelor's or master's degree in Business, Accounting, Criminal Justice or Legal, or an equivalent degree and 3 years of recent professional experience as an investigator, auditor or analyst.
Experience conducting criminal, civil or administrative investigations, audits or analysis.
Experience in investigative practices and techniques, including interviewing, report writing, document and/or evidence management and reviews.
Knowledge of legal standards and procedures applicable to investigations, for example due process, evidence management, and interviewing.
Ability to learn and operate a variety of data systems, equipment and tools used in investigations.
Ability to work independently and as a member of a team to deliver high quality work.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs, including Word and Excel.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Forensic Investigator (CFI), or Certified Financial Crimes Specialist (CFCI), or equivalent certification.
Interview training, such as Reid, Wickland‑Zulawski or equivalent.
Experience conducting financial investigations, audits, or analysis.
Experience in financial crimes investigations.
Experience in accounting practices, including skills to identify and reconcile accounts using reports, queries, spreadsheets and available tools and information.
Additional Requirements
A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. The background check may consist of the following components:
SEMA4 Records Check (applies to current and former state employees only)
Employment Reference Check
Conflict of Interest Review
Driver's License Check
Criminal Background Check
The Minnesota Department of Education will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.
How to Apply Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Kate Elling at katherine.elling@state.mn.us or 651-582-8558. To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Kate Elling at katherine.elling@state.mn.us.
Veterans To be considered with Veteran's Status, you MUST indicate this on your application and submit a copy of your DD‑214 form and other required documentation to katherine.elling@state.mn.us by the closing date. Recently Separated Veterans (RSV): Effective July 1, 2009, legislation provides that the top five RSV applicants who apply and meet the qualifications for a vacancy shall be granted an interview. Certain Disabled Veterans: Effective August 1, 2012, legislation provides state agencies with the option to appoint certain disabled veterans on a non‑competitive basis. See the above links for criteria and eligibility.
Benefits
Paid vacation and sick leave
12 paid holidays each year
Low‑cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
Fertility care, including IVF
Diabetes care
Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
Tax‑free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well‑being
Training, classes, and professional development
Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)
A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well‑being, or job performance (Employee Assistance Program)
Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran‑friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applicants With Disabilities Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
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