CHIEF DISTRICT ATTORNEY INSPECTOR

Job Specifications

Class Code:

RH8 

Analyst: 

LW/TC 

Date Originated:

01/82 

Date Revised:

09/91, 2/07 

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

DEFINITION

Under general direction, to plan, organize, coordinate, supervise, and evaluate the work of investigation staff in the District Attorney's Office; to coordinate criminal cases under the jurisdiction of the District Attorney with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies; to perform the more sensitive or responsible investigations; and to do other work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is a single-position class with department-wide responsibility for investigative services in the District Attorney's Office. This position reports to the District Attorney and represents the District Attorney on law enforcement matters. This position supervises and coordinates the work of investigators with attorneys and other law enforcement agencies.

TYPICAL TASKS

Plans, organizes, coordinates, supervises and evaluates the work of staff investigating cases for the District Attorney's Office; initiates and conducts criminal investigations coordinating with other law enforcement agencies; reviews incoming reports, complaints and requests for investigative assistance; evaluates, assigns and oversees the investigations; assists attorneys in preparing and evaluating cases for trial; conducts or leads complex or highly sensitive criminal investigations, such as complex homicides, charges against political figures or law enforcement officers, and charges of unfair political practices; coordinates the extradition of fugitives from other jurisdictions; assists the Grand Jury with investigations; establishes and maintains effective liaison with other law enforcement agencies; administers the District Attorney's Special Fund; develops, recommends and implements new programs including documenting policies and procedures; represents the District Attorney at criminal justice meetings; acts as a mediator in cases where agreement may be reached without filing a criminal complaint; appears in court as a witness; may conduct independent investigations on a county-wide basis for other jurisdictions and special districts; acts as a resource for other County departments and local law enforcement agencies.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

Knowledge:

  • Thorough knowledge of the methods, techniques and procedures employed in crime detection, criminal investigations and preservation of evidence.
  • Thorough knowledge of criminal justice procedures, rules of evidence, laws of arrest and search and seizure.
  • Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of criminal identification, such as fingerprinting, ballistics and photography.
  • Working knowledge of the California Penal Code, the Health and Safety Code, the Welfare and Institutions Code, and other state and federal laws, and case law as applicable to criminal and civil investigations.
  • Working knowledge of the principles and practices of law enforcement management.
  • Working knowledge of the principles and practices of supervision and training.
  • Working knowledge of criminal attitudes and behavior patterns.
  • Some knowledge of interstate extradition procedures.
  • Some knowledge of budget and finance.

Abilities

  • Effectively plan, organize, manage, coordinate, supervise and evaluate the work of subordinate staff.
  • Conduct complex and highly sensitive investigations.
  • Train or direct the training of subordinate staff.
  • Review and evaluate complex investigative reports, statements and complaints to determine appropriate action.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with attorneys, law enforcement agency personnel, and others contacted during the course of work.
  • Make quick, effective decisions in emergencies and take appropriate action.
  • Analyze facts and data and draw sound conclusions.
  • Communicate clearly and logically in oral and written form and make effective presentations before large groups.
  • Evaluate current operations and develop and implement improvements.
  • Develop and implement new programs.
  • Prepare investigative staff procedures and policies.

Training and Experience

Any combination of training and experience, which would provide the required knowledge and abilities, is qualifying. A typical way to obtain these knowledge and abilities would be: Five years of experience in criminal investigations with a governmental law enforcement agency, which would demonstrate possession and application of the knowledge and abilities listed above.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Possess and maintain a valid California Class C Driver's License.

Possess a P.O.S.T. Basic Certificate, or possess qualifying out-of-state or federal experience and obtain a P.O.S.T. Basic Certificate within 18 months of hire.

Bargaining Unit: Executive Management

EEOC Job Category: 02

Occupational Grouping: 62

Worker's Comp Code: 1073