In the realm of criminal investigations, the role of a Senior Criminal Investigator (Polygraph Examiner) stands out for its complexity and critical importance. Assigned to the Investigations Division offices at various locations, individuals in this position are tasked with the responsibility of carrying out highly sensitive and challenging criminal investigations. Moreover, they are skilled in conducting polygraph examinations to support these investigations across the Division, requiring an expert level of knowledge and proficiency in both investigative techniques and polygraph examinations.
Core Responsibilities
The Senior Criminal Investigator (Polygraph Examiner) is entrusted with several key duties that are fundamental to the integrity and success of criminal investigations:
- Polygraph Examination Reports: One of the primary tasks involves preparing detailed investigative polygraph reports. These reports, which are provided to case agents, prosecutors, and management officials, adhere to the policies and procedures set by the DOJ OIG Investigations Division. They reflect the latest trends and techniques within the law enforcement and professional polygraph communities, ensuring that all findings are up-to-date and relevant.
- Testifying in Legal Proceedings: The role extends to the courtroom, where the examiner may be called upon to testify as a witness. Whether it’s before Grand Juries, courts of law, or administrative hearings, their testimony regarding polygraph examinations and investigative matters is crucial in legal proceedings.
- Investigative Reporting: Beyond conducting polygraph tests, the examiner is responsible for producing comprehensive reports on their investigative activities and findings. These reports can play a pivotal role in Federal, State, or local judicial proceedings or administrative hearings, providing essential evidence and insights.
- Handling Complex Investigations: The position involves planning, organizing, and personally conducting complex and sensitive criminal and administrative investigations. These investigations often deal with a wide array of misconduct allegations involving Department interests, including high-ranking officials within the Department.
- Professional Development: Staying abreast of the latest developments in the field is vital. This involves participating in polygraph associations, conferences, symposiums, or working groups, and maintaining all mandated polygraph-related training requirements.
Required Competencies
To excel in this role, certain competencies are indispensable:
- Communication Skills: Expertise in conveying polygraph-related information clearly and effectively, both orally and in written form, is crucial for collaboration with OIG staff and the presentation of findings.
- Investigative Authority: Being recognized as an authority on polygraph matters within investigative contexts requires a deep understanding of polygraph best practices, rules of evidence, and examination techniques.
- Technical Skills: The ability to plan, organize, and conduct technical investigations is foundational. This includes executing tasks pursuant to search warrants, consent, and administrative seizures, ensuring adherence to legal standards and procedures.
Conditions of Employment and Qualifications
Candidates must meet specific conditions and qualifications to be eligible for this position:
- U.S. Citizenship and Security Clearance: Applicants must be U.S. Citizens and capable of obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret security clearance.
- Selective Service Registration: Male applicants must comply with the Selective Service registration requirements.
- Drug Screening and Medical Qualifications: The role requires passing drug screenings and meeting medical qualifications to ensure fitness for duty.
- Firearm Proficiency: Given the nature of the role, maintaining firearm proficiency and a valid state-issued driver’s license is mandatory.
- Age Requirement: There’s an age limit for entry into primary law enforcement positions, typically before the 37th birthday, with certain exceptions for veterans and those with prior federal law enforcement experience.
- Specialized Experience: Applicants need substantial experience in conducting polygraph examinations and investigations, with a required certification from recognized polygraph training institutions like the National Center for Credibility Assessment.
This role is pivotal in ensuring the integrity of criminal investigations and upholding justice. The Senior Criminal Investigator (Polygraph Examiner) embodies a blend of technical expertise, ethical commitment, and a dedication to the principles of justice, playing a crucial role in the fair and impartial administration of law.
Application Instructions
Before starting your application, ensure you read the entire job announcement carefully. The application process involves the following steps:
- Start your application by clicking the ‘Apply Online’ button.
- Follow the prompts to answer questions and attach any required documents as outlined in the announcement.
- Ensure you submit your application by clicking ‘Submit Application’ before 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date.
You can edit and update your application with additional documents at any point during the open period by visiting your USAJOBS account at https://usajobs.gov. After the job announcement closes, you won’t be able to make any changes.
To check the status of your application, log into your USAJOBS account. Your application status and any updates from the agency will be listed under the “Track this application” link next to the relevant job application. Visit https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/application/status/ for explanations of each status.
