INVESTIGATOR
California Department of Developmental Services, Sacramento, CA, United States
Work Location
Sacramento County
Job Description and Duties
Completion of the Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) Basic Academy or Specialized Investigators Basic Course is required.
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is recruiting to fill two
Investigator
positions within the Office of Protective Services (OPS) in the Headquarters Office, located in Sacramento.
Under the direct supervision of the Supervising Special Investigator I (Lieutenant) of the Professional Standards Branch (PSB), Office of Protective Services (OPS), the Investigator (hereinafter referred to as “Detective”) is a sworn Peace Officer pursuant to section 830.0(v) of the California Penal Code.
Responsibilities include conducting independent criminal, civil, and/or administrative investigations to identify violations of Federal, State, and/or local laws and facility policies. The Detective is also responsible for the administration of the criminal history review and exemption procedures and processes associated with the Family Home Agency (FHA) program and Self Determination Program (SDP). The Detective conducts and completes investigations within established guidelines as set forth in the Office of Protective Services Law Enforcement manual.
Investigations may include but are not limited to client deaths, allegations of abuse and neglect, fraud, embezzlement, and criminal history investigations based on a subsequent arrest or DOJ/FBI notification. The Detective will collect and verify evidence; complete clear, concise, and accurate reports; and may conduct undercover or surveillance operations.
Effective July 1, 2025, State employees are subject to a salary reduction of two percent in exchange for 3.5 hours per month of the Personal Leave.
DDS now offers an entrance salary rate of $6,974.00 for Range A and $8,037.00 for Range B (when applicable) for the Investigator classification.
You will find additional information about the job in the
Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Works on a computer approximately seventy (%) of the time reviewing/writing policies, investigation reports, and electronic communication. Performs other physical tasks associated with the performance of investigations, e.g., gathering documents/evidence, conducting/recording interviews, and traveling to other DDS locations. Drives and travels by various modes of transportation to conduct investigative activities.
Maintains the ability and willingness to travel overnight, work holidays, weekends, and odd or irregular hours to respond to an investigative incident(s) and work overtime when approved.
Under Government Code 14200, this position is a hybrid, in‑office/telework position, and may be subject to change. Incumbent may be required to report to the office, or any designated location at any time. Telework agreements can be modified and/or cancelled at any time. Pursuant to California Government Code requirements, candidates must be residents of the State of California at the time of appointment. All commuter expenses to the reporting location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
This position requires lawful authorization to work in the United States. The Department does not sponsor employment visas for this position.
Position Details
Job Code #:
JC-503872
Position #(s):
472-542-8610-917
Working Title:
Detective
Classification:
INVESTIGATOR
Salary Range A:
$6,974.00 - $10,609.00
Salary Range B:
$8,037.00 - $10,609.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
2
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
Department of Developmental Services
Department Information
The California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is the agency through which the State of California provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities. These disabilities include intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism and related conditions. Services are provided through state‑operated developmental centers and community facilities, and contracts with 21 nonprofit regional centers. The regional centers serve as a local resource to help find and access the services and supports available to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
The DDS is located in a modern, sustainable and innovative office building at 1215 “O” Street, Sacramento, California. Some amenities of the building include:
First floor retail space (separate access from 12th Street)
Café with multiple vendors
Outdoor seating for meal breaks
Employee fitness center which includes a yoga studio, cardio equipment and weights
Plaza area with kitchenette on each floor
Lactation rooms
Department Website:
http://www.dds.ca.gov
Special Requirements
The position(s) require(s) a valid California Driver’s License (CDL). Provide your CDL number, class, expiration date, and any endorsements and/or restrictions.
The position(s) require(s) a Drug Screening be passed prior to being hired.
The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.
The position(s) require(s) Medical Clearance prior to being hired.
The position(s) require(s) Psychological Evaluation clearance prior to being hired.
The position(s) require(s) a Specialized Investigators Basic Course Certificate. Provide a copy of your certificate prior to being hired.
The position(s) require(s) POST Certificate. Provide a copy of your certificate prior to being hired.
Statement of Qualifications
The SOQ must be typed in 12‑point Arial font, single spaced, and be no more than two pages in length. Applicants who fail to answer the question below or submit an SOQ may not be considered. Cover letters and resumes do not take the place of the SOQ.
How does your POST‑related training, education, and/or Law Enforcement job experience qualify you for this position?
If you are using list eligibility from an online exam to qualify for this position, you must include with your application any documentation (e.g., copy of transcript, degree, license, etc.) to verify meeting the MQs or you may not be considered.
Application Instructions
Final Filing Date: Until Filled.
Who May Apply?
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility
(please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply?
Complete Application Packages (including Your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) And Applicable Or Required Documents) Must Be Submitted To Apply For This Job Posting.
Application Packages May Be Submitted Electronically Through Your CalCareer Account At www.CalCareers.ca.gov.
If Submitting Your Application In Hard Copy, a Completed Copy Of The Application Package Listing Must Be Included.
Address for Mailing Application Packages:
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Attn: Mimi Hairford
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
Sacramento, CA 95814
Address for Drop‑Off Application Packages:
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Mimi Hairford
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
Sacramento, CA 95814
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents:
Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
Statement of Qualifications is required and is a narrative discussion of how the candidate’s education, training, experience, and skills meet the minimum and desirable qualifications and qualify them for the position.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications
Knowledge of investigation techniques and procedures.
Knowledge of applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and rules.
Skill in planning, organizing, and directing investigations.
Ability to analyze, think and act quickly in emergencies, and adopt an effective course of action.
Knowledge of various types of developmental disabilities and knowledge of specific commitments that allow admission to the Developmental Centers/Community Facility.
Benefits
As a state employee working for the Department of Developmental Services, you and your family will have access to excellent medical, dental and vision insurance benefits in addition to retirement benefits.
Benefit eligibility may be based on job classification, bargaining unit, time base and length of appointment. Additional benefits may also be outlined for specific bargaining units in employee collective bargaining contracts. For more information, please visit the links below:
State Employees - CalHR Benefits Website
CalPERS Health Benefit Summary 2026
Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website:
http://www.dds.ca.gov
Human Resources Contact:
Mimi Hairford
(916) 654‑3378
mimi.hairford@dds.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact
Equal Employment Opportunity Office
OHRAS@dds.ca.gov
California Relay Service:
1‑800‑735‑2929 (TTY), 1‑800‑735‑2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Additional Information
Applications will be reviewed on a continuous basis. Electronic application submission is highly encouraged.
Multiple positions may be filled from this recruitment. This recruitment may be utilized to fill future vacancies that may occur during the life of the certification list.
Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are meeting Minimum Qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment. If it is determined an applicant does not meet the Minimum Qualifications, the candidate may be withheld from the eligibility list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Candidates who have been withheld may file an appeal with the California Department of Human Resources.
All appointments are subject to State Restriction of Appointment (SROA), Departmental Restriction of Appointment (DROA), Re‑employment List procedures, pre‑employment physical and fingerprint clearances. Further information on the definition of the above may be found on the California Department of Human Resources' website at: www.calhr.ca.gov.
You may find the exam for this classification on the Exams/Assessment tab or at: Investigator
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug‑free workplace. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Sacramento County
Job Description and Duties
Completion of the Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) Basic Academy or Specialized Investigators Basic Course is required.
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is recruiting to fill two
Investigator
positions within the Office of Protective Services (OPS) in the Headquarters Office, located in Sacramento.
Under the direct supervision of the Supervising Special Investigator I (Lieutenant) of the Professional Standards Branch (PSB), Office of Protective Services (OPS), the Investigator (hereinafter referred to as “Detective”) is a sworn Peace Officer pursuant to section 830.0(v) of the California Penal Code.
Responsibilities include conducting independent criminal, civil, and/or administrative investigations to identify violations of Federal, State, and/or local laws and facility policies. The Detective is also responsible for the administration of the criminal history review and exemption procedures and processes associated with the Family Home Agency (FHA) program and Self Determination Program (SDP). The Detective conducts and completes investigations within established guidelines as set forth in the Office of Protective Services Law Enforcement manual.
Investigations may include but are not limited to client deaths, allegations of abuse and neglect, fraud, embezzlement, and criminal history investigations based on a subsequent arrest or DOJ/FBI notification. The Detective will collect and verify evidence; complete clear, concise, and accurate reports; and may conduct undercover or surveillance operations.
Effective July 1, 2025, State employees are subject to a salary reduction of two percent in exchange for 3.5 hours per month of the Personal Leave.
DDS now offers an entrance salary rate of $6,974.00 for Range A and $8,037.00 for Range B (when applicable) for the Investigator classification.
You will find additional information about the job in the
Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Works on a computer approximately seventy (%) of the time reviewing/writing policies, investigation reports, and electronic communication. Performs other physical tasks associated with the performance of investigations, e.g., gathering documents/evidence, conducting/recording interviews, and traveling to other DDS locations. Drives and travels by various modes of transportation to conduct investigative activities.
Maintains the ability and willingness to travel overnight, work holidays, weekends, and odd or irregular hours to respond to an investigative incident(s) and work overtime when approved.
Under Government Code 14200, this position is a hybrid, in‑office/telework position, and may be subject to change. Incumbent may be required to report to the office, or any designated location at any time. Telework agreements can be modified and/or cancelled at any time. Pursuant to California Government Code requirements, candidates must be residents of the State of California at the time of appointment. All commuter expenses to the reporting location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
This position requires lawful authorization to work in the United States. The Department does not sponsor employment visas for this position.
Position Details
Job Code #:
JC-503872
Position #(s):
472-542-8610-917
Working Title:
Detective
Classification:
INVESTIGATOR
Salary Range A:
$6,974.00 - $10,609.00
Salary Range B:
$8,037.00 - $10,609.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
2
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
Department of Developmental Services
Department Information
The California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is the agency through which the State of California provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities. These disabilities include intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism and related conditions. Services are provided through state‑operated developmental centers and community facilities, and contracts with 21 nonprofit regional centers. The regional centers serve as a local resource to help find and access the services and supports available to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
The DDS is located in a modern, sustainable and innovative office building at 1215 “O” Street, Sacramento, California. Some amenities of the building include:
First floor retail space (separate access from 12th Street)
Café with multiple vendors
Outdoor seating for meal breaks
Employee fitness center which includes a yoga studio, cardio equipment and weights
Plaza area with kitchenette on each floor
Lactation rooms
Department Website:
http://www.dds.ca.gov
Special Requirements
The position(s) require(s) a valid California Driver’s License (CDL). Provide your CDL number, class, expiration date, and any endorsements and/or restrictions.
The position(s) require(s) a Drug Screening be passed prior to being hired.
The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.
The position(s) require(s) Medical Clearance prior to being hired.
The position(s) require(s) Psychological Evaluation clearance prior to being hired.
The position(s) require(s) a Specialized Investigators Basic Course Certificate. Provide a copy of your certificate prior to being hired.
The position(s) require(s) POST Certificate. Provide a copy of your certificate prior to being hired.
Statement of Qualifications
The SOQ must be typed in 12‑point Arial font, single spaced, and be no more than two pages in length. Applicants who fail to answer the question below or submit an SOQ may not be considered. Cover letters and resumes do not take the place of the SOQ.
How does your POST‑related training, education, and/or Law Enforcement job experience qualify you for this position?
If you are using list eligibility from an online exam to qualify for this position, you must include with your application any documentation (e.g., copy of transcript, degree, license, etc.) to verify meeting the MQs or you may not be considered.
Application Instructions
Final Filing Date: Until Filled.
Who May Apply?
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility
(please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply?
Complete Application Packages (including Your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) And Applicable Or Required Documents) Must Be Submitted To Apply For This Job Posting.
Application Packages May Be Submitted Electronically Through Your CalCareer Account At www.CalCareers.ca.gov.
If Submitting Your Application In Hard Copy, a Completed Copy Of The Application Package Listing Must Be Included.
Address for Mailing Application Packages:
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Attn: Mimi Hairford
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
Sacramento, CA 95814
Address for Drop‑Off Application Packages:
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Mimi Hairford
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
Sacramento, CA 95814
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents:
Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
Statement of Qualifications is required and is a narrative discussion of how the candidate’s education, training, experience, and skills meet the minimum and desirable qualifications and qualify them for the position.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications
Knowledge of investigation techniques and procedures.
Knowledge of applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and rules.
Skill in planning, organizing, and directing investigations.
Ability to analyze, think and act quickly in emergencies, and adopt an effective course of action.
Knowledge of various types of developmental disabilities and knowledge of specific commitments that allow admission to the Developmental Centers/Community Facility.
Benefits
As a state employee working for the Department of Developmental Services, you and your family will have access to excellent medical, dental and vision insurance benefits in addition to retirement benefits.
Benefit eligibility may be based on job classification, bargaining unit, time base and length of appointment. Additional benefits may also be outlined for specific bargaining units in employee collective bargaining contracts. For more information, please visit the links below:
State Employees - CalHR Benefits Website
CalPERS Health Benefit Summary 2026
Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website:
http://www.dds.ca.gov
Human Resources Contact:
Mimi Hairford
(916) 654‑3378
mimi.hairford@dds.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact
Equal Employment Opportunity Office
OHRAS@dds.ca.gov
California Relay Service:
1‑800‑735‑2929 (TTY), 1‑800‑735‑2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Additional Information
Applications will be reviewed on a continuous basis. Electronic application submission is highly encouraged.
Multiple positions may be filled from this recruitment. This recruitment may be utilized to fill future vacancies that may occur during the life of the certification list.
Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are meeting Minimum Qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment. If it is determined an applicant does not meet the Minimum Qualifications, the candidate may be withheld from the eligibility list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Candidates who have been withheld may file an appeal with the California Department of Human Resources.
All appointments are subject to State Restriction of Appointment (SROA), Departmental Restriction of Appointment (DROA), Re‑employment List procedures, pre‑employment physical and fingerprint clearances. Further information on the definition of the above may be found on the California Department of Human Resources' website at: www.calhr.ca.gov.
You may find the exam for this classification on the Exams/Assessment tab or at: Investigator
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug‑free workplace. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.
#J-18808-Ljbffr