Welfare Fraud Investigator
County of Santa Clara CA, San Jose, CA, United States
Salary :
$112,656.96 - $137,067.84 Annually
Location :
Throughout the County of Santa Clara, CA
Job Type:
Full-Time
Job Number:
26-V8B-A
Department:
Social Services Agency - AO
Division:
WF - Welfare Fraud Unit
Opening Date:
04/27/2026
Closing Date:
5/11/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Bargaining Unit:
01
Description
Under general supervision, to investigate cases related to suspected fraudulent receipt of public assistance; to interview witnesses, conduct computer checks and analyze welfare data; and to serve civil papers and criminal complaints.
This position is in the Social Services Agency, Special Investigations Unit. Candidates must possess a valid Specialized Investigator Basic Certificate or Basic Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Certificate, and, must be able to pass a criminal background check, polygraph, medical and psychological testing.
Typical Tasks
Reviews, gathers, evaluates and analyzes evidence and information relating to the investigation of suspected welfare or IHSS fraud;
Conducts confidential criminal history checks and other computer checks through local and state databases; analyzes data;
Contacts other agencies, business organization, employers and other parties to secure, preserve and verify information, written statements and evidence;
Interviews complainants, witnesses, suspects, and recipients of aid;
Maintains thorough and accurate case summary notes;
Evaluates information obtained and makes recommendations as to the need for prosecution;
Assembles and reports data to enable the District Attorney to act;
Files criminal complaints, serves subpoenas;
Identifies over-payments and refers to collections;
Responds to inquiries from agency and outside parties concerning related legal matters;
Works jointly with other agencies in the development of evidence;
Appears as a witness in court or at administrative hearings;
Compiles, safeguards, and presents evidence for prosecution;
Prepares oral and written reports;
Uses work-related equipment as required;
May detain and arrest suspects, assuring proper cause;
Interprets, explains and applies provisions of laws, rules and regulations related to welfare or IHSS fraud;
Provides technical assistance to lower level staff;
May be assigned as a Disaster Service Worker, as required;
Performs related work as required.
Employment Standards
Sufficient education and experience which directly demonstrates the possession and application of the following knowledge and abilities:
Training and Experience Note:
The knowledge and abilities listed below are acquired through the following:
Completion of 60 semester units
AND
Two (2) years performing welfare fraud investigations or investigative work in law enforcement
OR
Two (2) years as an Investigator Assistant in Santa Clara County.
Possession of a valid Specialized Investigator Basic Certificate or Basic (or higher) Peace Officers Standard Training (P.O.S.T.) Certificate issued by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) prior to appointment.
Possession of a valid California Driver's License prior to appointment and the ability to qualify and maintain a County's driver's permit.
Specialization in law enforcement or related field, from an accredited university or college is desirable.
Special Requirements:
Applicants who have passed their 20th birthday may submit an application but cannot be appointed until they have reached their 21st birthday.
Felony convictions will be disqualifying. Misdemeanor convictions may be disqualifying depending on the type, frequency, severity and time of offense.
Must be able to take and pass a thorough medical examination. May be disqualified on the basis of established medical standards (current P.O.S.T. or Departmental orders).
Must successfully pass a psychological evaluation.
Must successfully demonstrate and maintain physical fitness in order to perform the full scope and functions of the job.
Must pass a complete background investigation including fingerprints and a search of local, state, and national files for criminal history.
Must be a citizen of the United States or a permanent resident who is eligible for and has applied for citizenship.
Knowledge of:
Modern principles and techniques of investigation, particularly as they apply to suspected fraudulent application for and receipt of public assistance;
Principles and techniques of interviewing and interrogation;
Rules of evidence and of court procedure;
Methods of identifying, preserving and presenting evidence;
Laws of arrest, search and seizure, service of legal process and the legal rights of citizens;
Penal, Civil, Welfare and Institutions Codes, and related laws and regulations;
Arrest techniques;
Personal computers and common office applications;
Methods of report preparation, writing and presentation.
Ability to:
Interpret and effectively apply provisions of laws applicable to investigations related to suspected welfare and IHSS fraud;
Work independently in conducting fraud investigations;
Prepare and present clear, concise and comprehensive reports and correspondence;
Interview effectively and secure the cooperation of others;
Prepare and present accurate evidence, including appearing in court to give testimony;
Communicate effectively, orally and in writing;
Work required hours and assigned shifts;
Use logic in making decisions and exercise sound judgment.
The County offers comprehensive first-class medical, dental, and vision benefits plans for County employees and their dependents, including plans with no deductibles, no co-pays, no co-insurance, and no prescription drug co-pays.
Learn more
The County also offers generous paid time off with significant vacation, sick time, and 13 paid County holidays annually! Details are included in the with the bargaining unit applicable to the job classification.
In addition to the amazing perks above, the County also offers the additional benefits below.
Retirement Benefits
The County offers robust retirement plans including a (similar to the private sector's 401(k) plan) and the In addition to lifetime retirement income available through the CalPERS pension plan, the 457(b) Deferred Compensation plan provides a great way to save for retirement and supplement the defined benefit pension available to employees. These plans help our employees build a plan for their future and contribute to their family's long-term financial well-being.
Health Flexible Spending Account
The empowers employees to manage healthcare expenses efficiently with tax-free contributions (up to $3,200 for the 2024 calendar year). Secure tax-free solutions for your healthcare expenses and enjoy the flexibility to manage your healthcare finances effectively with the HFSA.
Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP)
The enables employees to utilize tax-free funds for dependent care services, facilitating a convenient and cost-effective approach for managing your dependent care expenses. The County also offers the , an employer-funded DCAP, for employees with annual income under $120,000.
Life and AD&D
The County offers life and disability benefits including , Insurance, These benefits ensure financial security and income support when you and your family need it most.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
The County prioritizes employee mental health and well-being and offers a top-tier through Concern providing confidential counseling sessions covering stress, anxiety, relationships, grief, as well as financial/legal services, personal coaching, child and elder care referrals, and comprehensive crisis support.
Employee Wellness
The offers free wellness programing, fitness classes and resources; including Elevate My Wellness an all-in-one platform designed to elevate your well-being journey.
Education Reimbursement
A generous program is available, including Education Reimbursement for employees seeking additional training and professional development.
NOTE : Benefit and Retirement information may vary from bargaining unit to bargaining unit. Due to changes in State Law, current pension provisions described in the union contracts are not automatically applied. Specific pension benefits for new hires who start on or after January 1, 2013 may be different than indicated in the union contracts.
Click here to access all Memoranda of Understanding and most recent Summary of Changes.
01
Please answer the following questions. Completion of the following supplemental questions is
REQUIRED
for your application and is an integral part of the evaluation process. Initially, it will be used to evaluate against the employment standards. For those applicants meeting the employment standards, this information will be critical in the subsequent competitive assessment to identify those candidates to be invited to continue in the examination process. Your responses to the questions may also be reviewed and scored in a Competitive Rating evaluation process based on pre-determined rating criteria. Your answers should be as complete as possible, as no additional information will be accepted from applicants once the Competitive Rating evaluation has begun. Please include the name of employer, job title, dates of employment and number of hours worked per week for questions asking about your experience. A response of "see resume" or "see application" will deem your application incomplete. Vague, incomplete or non-responsive answers could result in no or low scores in a competitive rating process. Do you understand this requirement?
Yes
No
02
What is the highest level of education you have completed?
High School or GED equivalent
College (1 to 29 semester units / 1 to 44 quarter units)
College (30 to 59 semester units / 45 to 89 quarter units)
College (60 to 89 semester units / 90 to 134 quarter units)
College (90 to 119 semester units / 135 to 179 quarter units)
College (120 or more semester units / 180 or more quarter units)
Associate's Degree
Bachelor's Degree
Master's Degree
Doctoral Degree
None of the above
03
What is your major area of study?
Criminal Justice
Law Enforcement
Other field
None of the above
04
If you selected "Other field" in the question above, please identify the area of study. Respond with N/A if you did not select this option.
05
Select the certificate(s) you have been issued by California Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.). Please attach a copy of your certificate(s) to your application.
Specialized Investigators
Basic
Intermediate
Advanced
Supervisory
None of the above
06
When was your P.O.S.T. certificate issued?
07
Is your P.O.S.T. certificate currently active?
Yes
No
08
How many years of experience do you have performing welfare fraud investigations or investigative work?
No experience
Less than one year
One to less than two years
Two to less than three years
Three to less than four years
Four to less than five years
Five or more years
09
Describe your experience performing welfare fraud investigations or investigative work in law enforcement. Include name of employer, job titles, dates of employment and hours worked per week. If none, type "N/A"
10
Do you have two (2) years as an Investigator Assistant in Santa Clara County?
Yes
No
11
Do you have experience with report writing?
Yes
No
12
Describe your experience with report writing (e.g., reports to courts, department heads, attorneys, law enforcement or other outside agencies). Include the following in your response: Type of reports written, subject/purpose, and the frequency with which you performed this task (number of reports daily or weekly). Include name of employer, job titles, dates of employment and hours worked per week. If none, type "N/A"
13
Do you have experience interrogating suspects and/or interviewing victims, witnesses, and clients?
Yes
No
14
Describe your experience interrogating suspects and/or interviewing victims, witnesses, and clients within the last five years. Be sure to include the following in your response: Outline the specific techniques and strategies used, frequency with which you performed this task, steps you took from the planning state to the conclusion of the interview. Include name of employer, job titles, dates of employment and hours worked per week. If none, type "N/A"
15
Do you have experience presenting accurate evidence, including appearing in court to give testimony?
Yes
No
16
Describe your experience presenting accurate evidence, including appearing in court to give testimony. Include name of employer, job titles, dates of employment and hours worked per week. If none, type "N/A"
17
How did you find out about this job?
Contacted by County Recruiter
Contacted by a Recruitment Firm
County Employee Referral
County of Santa Clara Career Website
County of Santa Clara Job Interests Email Notification
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Indeed
Virtual Job Fair
In-Person Job Fair
In-Person Networking Professional Event
Virtual Networking Event
Community Event
Glassdoor
Governmentjobs.com
Professional Association
Search Engine (Google, Bing, online search, etc.)
Hospital Website: SCVMC, O'Connor Hospital, St. Louise Regional Hospital Website
Handshake
Student Career Center
County Text Message
County Career Newsletter
Other (Specify in the next question)
18
How did you find out about this job? If "Other" is selected: Please describe how you heard about this job.
Required Question
$112,656.96 - $137,067.84 Annually
Location :
Throughout the County of Santa Clara, CA
Job Type:
Full-Time
Job Number:
26-V8B-A
Department:
Social Services Agency - AO
Division:
WF - Welfare Fraud Unit
Opening Date:
04/27/2026
Closing Date:
5/11/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Bargaining Unit:
01
Description
Under general supervision, to investigate cases related to suspected fraudulent receipt of public assistance; to interview witnesses, conduct computer checks and analyze welfare data; and to serve civil papers and criminal complaints.
This position is in the Social Services Agency, Special Investigations Unit. Candidates must possess a valid Specialized Investigator Basic Certificate or Basic Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Certificate, and, must be able to pass a criminal background check, polygraph, medical and psychological testing.
Typical Tasks
Reviews, gathers, evaluates and analyzes evidence and information relating to the investigation of suspected welfare or IHSS fraud;
Conducts confidential criminal history checks and other computer checks through local and state databases; analyzes data;
Contacts other agencies, business organization, employers and other parties to secure, preserve and verify information, written statements and evidence;
Interviews complainants, witnesses, suspects, and recipients of aid;
Maintains thorough and accurate case summary notes;
Evaluates information obtained and makes recommendations as to the need for prosecution;
Assembles and reports data to enable the District Attorney to act;
Files criminal complaints, serves subpoenas;
Identifies over-payments and refers to collections;
Responds to inquiries from agency and outside parties concerning related legal matters;
Works jointly with other agencies in the development of evidence;
Appears as a witness in court or at administrative hearings;
Compiles, safeguards, and presents evidence for prosecution;
Prepares oral and written reports;
Uses work-related equipment as required;
May detain and arrest suspects, assuring proper cause;
Interprets, explains and applies provisions of laws, rules and regulations related to welfare or IHSS fraud;
Provides technical assistance to lower level staff;
May be assigned as a Disaster Service Worker, as required;
Performs related work as required.
Employment Standards
Sufficient education and experience which directly demonstrates the possession and application of the following knowledge and abilities:
Training and Experience Note:
The knowledge and abilities listed below are acquired through the following:
Completion of 60 semester units
AND
Two (2) years performing welfare fraud investigations or investigative work in law enforcement
OR
Two (2) years as an Investigator Assistant in Santa Clara County.
Possession of a valid Specialized Investigator Basic Certificate or Basic (or higher) Peace Officers Standard Training (P.O.S.T.) Certificate issued by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) prior to appointment.
Possession of a valid California Driver's License prior to appointment and the ability to qualify and maintain a County's driver's permit.
Specialization in law enforcement or related field, from an accredited university or college is desirable.
Special Requirements:
Applicants who have passed their 20th birthday may submit an application but cannot be appointed until they have reached their 21st birthday.
Felony convictions will be disqualifying. Misdemeanor convictions may be disqualifying depending on the type, frequency, severity and time of offense.
Must be able to take and pass a thorough medical examination. May be disqualified on the basis of established medical standards (current P.O.S.T. or Departmental orders).
Must successfully pass a psychological evaluation.
Must successfully demonstrate and maintain physical fitness in order to perform the full scope and functions of the job.
Must pass a complete background investigation including fingerprints and a search of local, state, and national files for criminal history.
Must be a citizen of the United States or a permanent resident who is eligible for and has applied for citizenship.
Knowledge of:
Modern principles and techniques of investigation, particularly as they apply to suspected fraudulent application for and receipt of public assistance;
Principles and techniques of interviewing and interrogation;
Rules of evidence and of court procedure;
Methods of identifying, preserving and presenting evidence;
Laws of arrest, search and seizure, service of legal process and the legal rights of citizens;
Penal, Civil, Welfare and Institutions Codes, and related laws and regulations;
Arrest techniques;
Personal computers and common office applications;
Methods of report preparation, writing and presentation.
Ability to:
Interpret and effectively apply provisions of laws applicable to investigations related to suspected welfare and IHSS fraud;
Work independently in conducting fraud investigations;
Prepare and present clear, concise and comprehensive reports and correspondence;
Interview effectively and secure the cooperation of others;
Prepare and present accurate evidence, including appearing in court to give testimony;
Communicate effectively, orally and in writing;
Work required hours and assigned shifts;
Use logic in making decisions and exercise sound judgment.
The County offers comprehensive first-class medical, dental, and vision benefits plans for County employees and their dependents, including plans with no deductibles, no co-pays, no co-insurance, and no prescription drug co-pays.
Learn more
The County also offers generous paid time off with significant vacation, sick time, and 13 paid County holidays annually! Details are included in the with the bargaining unit applicable to the job classification.
In addition to the amazing perks above, the County also offers the additional benefits below.
Retirement Benefits
The County offers robust retirement plans including a (similar to the private sector's 401(k) plan) and the In addition to lifetime retirement income available through the CalPERS pension plan, the 457(b) Deferred Compensation plan provides a great way to save for retirement and supplement the defined benefit pension available to employees. These plans help our employees build a plan for their future and contribute to their family's long-term financial well-being.
Health Flexible Spending Account
The empowers employees to manage healthcare expenses efficiently with tax-free contributions (up to $3,200 for the 2024 calendar year). Secure tax-free solutions for your healthcare expenses and enjoy the flexibility to manage your healthcare finances effectively with the HFSA.
Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP)
The enables employees to utilize tax-free funds for dependent care services, facilitating a convenient and cost-effective approach for managing your dependent care expenses. The County also offers the , an employer-funded DCAP, for employees with annual income under $120,000.
Life and AD&D
The County offers life and disability benefits including , Insurance, These benefits ensure financial security and income support when you and your family need it most.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
The County prioritizes employee mental health and well-being and offers a top-tier through Concern providing confidential counseling sessions covering stress, anxiety, relationships, grief, as well as financial/legal services, personal coaching, child and elder care referrals, and comprehensive crisis support.
Employee Wellness
The offers free wellness programing, fitness classes and resources; including Elevate My Wellness an all-in-one platform designed to elevate your well-being journey.
Education Reimbursement
A generous program is available, including Education Reimbursement for employees seeking additional training and professional development.
NOTE : Benefit and Retirement information may vary from bargaining unit to bargaining unit. Due to changes in State Law, current pension provisions described in the union contracts are not automatically applied. Specific pension benefits for new hires who start on or after January 1, 2013 may be different than indicated in the union contracts.
Click here to access all Memoranda of Understanding and most recent Summary of Changes.
01
Please answer the following questions. Completion of the following supplemental questions is
REQUIRED
for your application and is an integral part of the evaluation process. Initially, it will be used to evaluate against the employment standards. For those applicants meeting the employment standards, this information will be critical in the subsequent competitive assessment to identify those candidates to be invited to continue in the examination process. Your responses to the questions may also be reviewed and scored in a Competitive Rating evaluation process based on pre-determined rating criteria. Your answers should be as complete as possible, as no additional information will be accepted from applicants once the Competitive Rating evaluation has begun. Please include the name of employer, job title, dates of employment and number of hours worked per week for questions asking about your experience. A response of "see resume" or "see application" will deem your application incomplete. Vague, incomplete or non-responsive answers could result in no or low scores in a competitive rating process. Do you understand this requirement?
Yes
No
02
What is the highest level of education you have completed?
High School or GED equivalent
College (1 to 29 semester units / 1 to 44 quarter units)
College (30 to 59 semester units / 45 to 89 quarter units)
College (60 to 89 semester units / 90 to 134 quarter units)
College (90 to 119 semester units / 135 to 179 quarter units)
College (120 or more semester units / 180 or more quarter units)
Associate's Degree
Bachelor's Degree
Master's Degree
Doctoral Degree
None of the above
03
What is your major area of study?
Criminal Justice
Law Enforcement
Other field
None of the above
04
If you selected "Other field" in the question above, please identify the area of study. Respond with N/A if you did not select this option.
05
Select the certificate(s) you have been issued by California Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.). Please attach a copy of your certificate(s) to your application.
Specialized Investigators
Basic
Intermediate
Advanced
Supervisory
None of the above
06
When was your P.O.S.T. certificate issued?
07
Is your P.O.S.T. certificate currently active?
Yes
No
08
How many years of experience do you have performing welfare fraud investigations or investigative work?
No experience
Less than one year
One to less than two years
Two to less than three years
Three to less than four years
Four to less than five years
Five or more years
09
Describe your experience performing welfare fraud investigations or investigative work in law enforcement. Include name of employer, job titles, dates of employment and hours worked per week. If none, type "N/A"
10
Do you have two (2) years as an Investigator Assistant in Santa Clara County?
Yes
No
11
Do you have experience with report writing?
Yes
No
12
Describe your experience with report writing (e.g., reports to courts, department heads, attorneys, law enforcement or other outside agencies). Include the following in your response: Type of reports written, subject/purpose, and the frequency with which you performed this task (number of reports daily or weekly). Include name of employer, job titles, dates of employment and hours worked per week. If none, type "N/A"
13
Do you have experience interrogating suspects and/or interviewing victims, witnesses, and clients?
Yes
No
14
Describe your experience interrogating suspects and/or interviewing victims, witnesses, and clients within the last five years. Be sure to include the following in your response: Outline the specific techniques and strategies used, frequency with which you performed this task, steps you took from the planning state to the conclusion of the interview. Include name of employer, job titles, dates of employment and hours worked per week. If none, type "N/A"
15
Do you have experience presenting accurate evidence, including appearing in court to give testimony?
Yes
No
16
Describe your experience presenting accurate evidence, including appearing in court to give testimony. Include name of employer, job titles, dates of employment and hours worked per week. If none, type "N/A"
17
How did you find out about this job?
Contacted by County Recruiter
Contacted by a Recruitment Firm
County Employee Referral
County of Santa Clara Career Website
County of Santa Clara Job Interests Email Notification
Indeed
Virtual Job Fair
In-Person Job Fair
In-Person Networking Professional Event
Virtual Networking Event
Community Event
Glassdoor
Governmentjobs.com
Professional Association
Search Engine (Google, Bing, online search, etc.)
Hospital Website: SCVMC, O'Connor Hospital, St. Louise Regional Hospital Website
Handshake
Student Career Center
County Text Message
County Career Newsletter
Other (Specify in the next question)
18
How did you find out about this job? If "Other" is selected: Please describe how you heard about this job.
Required Question