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 

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES FOCUS

Job Location:

Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS)
Adult Protective Services (APS)
1789 West Jefferson Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85007
125 East Elliot Road, Chandler, Arizona 85225

Posting Details:

Salary: $21.5021 - $22.5962 Hourly 

Grade: 18

Closing Date: 07/06/2025

Job Summary:

Would you like to be part of an amazing team that helps Arizonans thrive? At the Department of Economic Security (DES) we strengthen individuals, families, and communities for a better quality of life. DES is looking for individuals who are committed to service, community, and teamwork. To learn more about DES please visit des.az.gov; or click on the link here to view ‘Our DES’ video. Come Join the DES Team!

Do you have a desire to support the vulnerable and have passion for the developmentally disabled community? Adult Protective Services (APS) seeks individuals to join our team as an Adult Protective Services Field Investigator – Development Disabilities Focused to support investigations involving those with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. As an investigator, you will investigate allegations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable adults (those unable to defend themselves), 18 years of age or older. This is an ideal position for someone who is highly motivated, has problem solving and decision-making skills, enjoys working independently in the field, and can provide comfort and resources to those who need help. You will interact with adults and family members in their home or care facilities and coordinate with external partners that range from caregivers, medical personnel, police, public fiduciaries, the public, and others in the course of your investigations. 

If you are passionate about protecting the most vulnerable adults in Arizona, we want you on our team! Please review the video to learn more about the APS Investigator's role and responsibilities - https://vimeo.com/408184827

 

Job Duties:

Essential duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

● Investigates, assesses, evaluates, documents, and provides referral of appropriate services for the most complex case investigations involving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, 18 years of age or older, alleged to be abused, neglected and/or exploited.
● Determines if there is a need for protective and/or social services for individuals residing in adult developmental homes (ADH), group homes, intermediate care facilities (ICF), Arizona Training Program Coolidge (ATPC) and skilled nursing facilities (SNF).
● Makes time sensitive contacts with clients and interviews anyone who may have information regarding the situation.
● Writes various assessments and summaries regarding the case.
● Analyzes a variety of complex documents including individual service plans (ISP) and behavioral treatment plans (BTP).

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of:

● Physical and behavioral indicators of neglect and abuse of adults with mental disabilities or seriously mentally ill and frail elderly
● Case investigation and social work practices and principles (e.g., elder rights, psychological abuse, adult maltreatment, etc.)
● Appropriate interventions for a variety of behavioral, developmental, and psychological symptoms

Skill in:

● Oral and written communication
● Time management and organization
● Critical thinking
● Using computer software packages (e.g., Excel, Word, Google Suite, etc.)

Ability to:

● Understand and apply Federal and state statutes, APS regulations, policies and procedures related to reporting of vulnerable adult maltreatment.
● Write clear, concise, and accurate reports.
● Quickly assess, prioritize, and process report cases when received.