Overview
DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC SECURITY Your Partner For A Stronger Arizona. DES works with families, community organizations, advocates and state and federal partners to realize our collective vision : A thriving Arizona. DES serves more than 3 million Arizonans. Our Mission is to strengthen individuals, families, and communities for a better quality of life. ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES INVESTIGATOR Job Location : Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) – Adult Protective Services (APS), 11518 East Apache Trail, Apache Junction, Arizona 85220. Posting Details : Salary : 21.50–22.60 hourly, Grade : 18, Closing Date : 09 / 28 / 2025.
Job Summary : The Department of Economic Security (DES) is seeking individuals committed to service, community, and teamwork to join our team to help Arizonans thrive. DES strengthens individuals, families, and communities for a better quality of life. Learn more about DES at des.az.gov, or view the DES video to learn more about our organization. This role is for an APS Field Investigator who will investigate allegations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable adults (18 years of age or older) who may be unable to defend themselves. This position is ideal for someone motivated, with problem-solving and decision-making skills, who enjoys field work and can provide comfort and resources to those in need. Investigations may involve interactions with adults and family members in homes or care facilities and coordination with external partners such as caregivers, medical personnel, police, public fiduciaries, and others.
Responsibilities
- Investigate, assess, evaluate, document, and refer appropriate services for complex cases involving vulnerable and incapacitated adults 18 years or older who are alleged to be abused, neglected, or exploited.
- Determine the need for protective and / or social services.
- Make time-sensitive contacts with clients and interview individuals who may have information about the situation.
- Write assessments and case summaries.
- Analyze a variety of complex documents.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs)
Knowledge of physical and behavioral indicators of neglect and abuse of adults with mental disabilities or frail elderly individuals.Knowledge of case investigation and social work practices and principles (e.g., elder rights, psychological abuse, adult maltreatment).Knowledge of appropriate interventions for behavioral, developmental, and psychological symptoms.Skills in oral and written communication; time management and organization; critical thinking; and using computer software (e.g., Excel, Word, Google Suite).Ability to understand and apply Federal and state statutes, APS regulations, policies and procedures related to reporting of vulnerable adult maltreatment.Ability to write clear, concise, and accurate reports; quickly assess, prioritize, and process cases; and interact with clients and callers professionally to elicit information efficiently.Selective Preference
Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice, Rehabilitation, Healthcare, or related field; orOne (1) year of experience providing professional Case Management / Investigations Services (Intake, Needs Assessment, Service Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation).Pre-Employment Requirements
In-state travel is required. Driver's License requirements : current, valid license; complete required training and pass license checks. Maintain liability insurance if using a personally owned vehicle for state business.Successfully pass background and reference checks; employment contingent on completion and the agency's ability to reasonably accommodate restrictions.Candidates will be subject to checks of the Child Protective Services Central Registry and the Adult Protective Services Registry.All new State employees must have a valid Level One fingerprint clearance card.All new State employees must complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).Flexibility to work longer shift hours or after-hours coverage if necessary.Benefits
Medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plansParticipation in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) and long-term disability plans10 paid holidays per yearVacation time accrual (4.00 hours bi-weekly for the first 3 years)Paid Parental Leave (up to 12 weeks per year) – pilot programSick time accrual (3.70 hours bi-weekly)Deferred compensation, wellness plans, tuition reimbursement, stipends, and moreRideshare and public transit subsidy; flexible schedulesLearn more about Paid Parental Leave - pilot program. For a complete list of benefits provided by the State of Arizona, visit the benefits page.
Retirement
State employees are required to participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) and the Long-Term Disability (LTD) program after a 27-week waiting period. The ASRS provides a defined benefit for lifelong retirement income. Voluntary deferred compensation is available. Information about insurance plans, enrollment, deadlines, and effective dates is provided on or after your first day of work.
Contact
For questions about this opportunity, contact Francine Halle at 602-723-2662 or daashr@azdes.gov. The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity / Reasonable Accommodation Employer. Persons with a disability may request reasonable accommodation by contacting Francine Halle. Requests should be made as early as possible to arrange the accommodation.
J-18808-Ljbffr