Investigation Specialist

Job Details Working Title: Investigation Specialist Job Class: Investigation Specialist Agency: Ombudsperson for Corrections Job ID: 92538 Location: St. Paul Telework Eligible: Yes Full/Part Time: Full-Time Regular/Temporary: Limited (six months) Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted: 02/28/2026 Closing Date: 03/13/2026 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Ombudsperson for Corrections / Ombud Corrections-MAPE Division/Unit: Ombudsperson for Corrections / Ombuds for Corrections Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: Yes (Up to 60% in state) Salary Range: $32.40 - $47.76 / hourly Classified Status: Unclassified Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE End Date: 10/30/2026 FLSA Status: Nonexempt Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : No 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. Job Summary This is a full-time temporary unclassified position anticipated to last six months in duration. The position is eligible for medical/dental benefits. The position is not eligible for Holiday or vacation leave, however, may be allowed to flex their schedule to accommodate leave needs. The Office of the Ombuds for Corrections (OBFC) is looking for a dedicated individual to represent and perform the duties of theOmbuds for Corrections. This position involves significant and frequent in-state travel. This position willreceive, process, investigate, resolve, and reporton individual complaints for state and local adult and juvenile facilities operated by or licensed by the Department of Corrections. This position additionally investigates systemic issues and conducts corrections policy analysis, research, reporting, and makes recommendations. This individualwill have access to corrections facilities and sensitive data under the delegated statutory authority of the Ombudsperson. This position exercises discretion in applying the policies, mission, vision, and values of the Ombuds for Corrections to cases within their jurisdiction and in building and maintaining positive relationships with stakeholders. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Three (3) years of experience working with justice-involved individuals. Experience must include: Conducting interviews, mediation, or counseling in complaint/compliance reviews, investigations, case management or a directly related field; and preparing clear written reports of findings and recommendations. Applying knowledge of the criminal justice system and correctional programs and policies sufficient to ensure the legality of investigations and protect individual rights . Applying interviewing techniques and analytical skills to gather information, assess evidence, identify patterns, and draw well-supported conclusions. A bachelor's degree in Corrections, Criminal Justice, Criminology, Psychology, Counseling Psychology, Counseling, Human Resources, Sociology, Social Work, or a closely related field may be substituted for one (1) year of work experience as described. An associate degree may be substituted for six (6) months of experience as described. Minimum qualifications assessed in the interview: Technical writing and oral communication skills to summarize complex information, prepare accurate summary reports, and convey findings effectively to proper authorities and a broad variety of stakeholders. Human relation skills and culture competence to communicate effectively across diverse backgrounds, navigate complex stakeholder dynamics, and collaborate, persuade, or lead as needed. Ability to interpret and clearly convey complex institutional and public policies to ensure stakeholders understand the Ombuds Office's role and responsibilities. Ability to operate independently and exercise initiative to investigate and resolve complex cases, anticipate issues, and recommend improvements to systems, procedures, and policies. Preferred Qualifications Bilingual Spanish speaking and writing skill to translate messages from one language to the other, while maintaining accurate content, context and style. Experience working directly with people who are or have been incarcerated . Experience working on systemic and policy initiatives in adult and juvenile correctional facilities. Knowledge of resource challenges with meeting the significant needs of this population and opportunities to better serve incarcerated adults and juveniles. Knowledge of Minnesota statutes; federal, criminal, and civil law; and correctional policies and procedures sufficient to determine the nature of the violations and if further investigation action is required. Knowledge of Minnesota Department of Corrections' policies and procedures and Minnesota Rules governing local facilities. Additional Requirements A written assessment may be required as part of the interview process. Incumbent must maintain a valid driver's license, and insurance, or have other reliable transportation to meet travel requirements. The selection process will include screening the top candidate(s) on their criminal history, predatory offender registration, incarcerated person associations and/or other applicable background information in accordance with Ombuds for Corrections and Department of Corrections' policy.Employment history/reference checks, including incidents of sexual harassment, will also be conducted on the top candidate(s) in accordance with Ombuds for Corrections and Department of Corrections' policy. This may include a review of job performance and discipline records. New employees will be fingerprinted within the first 30 days of employment. Application Details 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 . For additional information about the application process, go to . Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Ninel Austin at or 651-201-8005 . About Ombudsperson for Corrections The Office of the Ombuds for Corrections is an office thatinvestigates complaints, investigates correctional policies and practices, publishes reports of findings, makes recommendations, and provides information to people who are currently incarcerated, their family, and community . The OBFC was established as a neutral and independent investigator of complaints regarding state correctional agencies. Working together to improve the state we love. What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? A sense of purpose in their work Connection with their coworkers and communities Opportunities for personal and professional growth Benefits As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well. Your benefits may include: Paid sick leave Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans Fertility care, including IVF Diabetes care Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children 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 Support to help you reach your career goals: 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 ) Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support: A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance 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 Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota. 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 and let us know the support you need.

Created: 2026-03-04