The Office of Police Accountability (OPA) is the independent, civilian-led internal affairs office of the Seattle Police Department (SPD). OPA has one opportunity for a Civilian Investigator. This non-sworn position will be responsible for handling cases from the initial intake process through the full administrative investigation into allegations of SPD employee misconduct, including command staff. This position will report to a civilian Supervisor.
About the Office of Police Accountability:
The OPA safeguards a culture of accountability within the SPD. The Office ensures that the actions of SPD employees are constitutional and in compliance with the federal, state, and local laws by conducting thorough, objective and timely investigations, recommending improvements. OPA is a hybrid oversight agency comprised of both civilian and sworn personnel. OPA Director is appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Seattle City Council. To find out more about OPA visit
http://www.seattle.gov/opa.
• Complete investigations in a thorough, timely, and objective manner while maintaining the highest level of confidentiality.
• Interview Complainants, witnesses, and SPD employees.
• Communicate in a fair and impartial manner with complainants, witnesses, and SPD employees.
• Conduct canvasses at the location of the alleged incident to locate witnesses and obtain relevant information and evidence as appropriate.
• Collect and provide analysis of documents (e.g. police, fire department, medical, and forensic reports), videos, and photographs that pertain to the alleged incident of misconduct.
• Consult and seek regular input from OPA supervisors regarding case progress and issues.
• Prepare clear, concise, and timely reports of investigations.
• Update and maintain comprehensive case files according to OPA guidelines and as authorized by relevant law.
• Manage large caseloads that adhere to strict deadlines.
• Maintain a clear command of SPD policies, procedures, and training.
• Enhance investigative skills by attending relevant internal and external trainings.
• Willingness to contribute innovative ideas to OPA’s processes to ensure the continued use of best practices at OPA.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to analyze records and information, weigh evidence and credibility of witnesses, and develop logical objective conclusions.
• Ability to maintain objectivity and mitigate the effects of personal bias.
• Experience conducting misconduct related or other investigations.
• Experience in a government, legal, military, or law enforcement setting as a detective or investigator, and/or demonstrated skills in investigation and case management.
• A demonstrated interest and experience in the field of police accountability.
• Ability to exercise tact and diplomacy in dealing with sensitive, complex and, at times, highly-charged issues and situations.
• Knowledge of case law pertaining to use of force and search and seizure issues.
• Academic degree with three (3) years of experience conducting civil, administrative, and/or criminal investigations that involved: collecting, analyzing, and evaluating evidence; conducting interviews; and producing detailed reports of investigations OR graduation from an accredited law school with one (1) year of the experience identified herein OR other relevant education and experience applicable to this role.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
• May NOT have been formerly employed as a sworn member of the SPD.
• A job offer will be contingent upon the completion of an SPD background investigation, which includes a criminal history review.
• Position is eligible for hybrid work of onsite and remote work in accordance with City policy.
The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at:
https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans.
The salary range for this position is $51.88 - $77.82 Hourly.
This position is: a full-time (1.0 FTE) regular position with full benefits; exempt from the Classified Service (for additional information please visit Personnel Rule 2.2 – Exemption from the Classified Civil Service); is FLSA exempt (not eligible for overtime), and falls under the discretionary pay band (for additional information, please visit Personnel Rule 3.2 - Accountability Pay for Executives Pay Program).
Who May Apply:
This position is open to all candidates who meet the qualifications. The Seattle Human Resources Department values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or
political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
HOW TO APPLY:
• Fill out an application at
www.governmentjobs.com/careers/seattle.
• Job Number #2026-00634.
• Attach a resume and cover letter that provide additional information on why your skills and experience make you qualified for this job.
• Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• If you have questions, please contact Roth Lim at
roth.lim@seattle.gov
