Certified Investigator

Definition

This position supports the organization’s work in certified investigations.

The Certified Investigator (CI) is a specialized, highly regulated role responsible for conducting formal investigations into critical incidents as mandated by Chapter 6100 regulations. The CI ensures that incidents involving individuals served are thoroughly researched through objective fact‑gathering, trauma‑informed interviewing, and comprehensive analysis. The primary goal is to determine the facts of an incident while identifying systemic improvements to ensure the safety and well‑being of all participants in the programs and services offered by Friendship Community.

This includes management and oversight of incident, quality, and regulatory compliance across all programs.

The CI operates in direct alignment with the organization’s strategic plan, mission, and core values. To ensure comprehensive oversight, the CI is granted high‑level access—up to and including administrative rights—within critical systems such as Tabula Pro, Care Tracker, and HCSIS/EIM.

Compliance, Incident, and Quality Management Coordinator

• Fact‑Gathering & Evidence Management
• Identify, collect, and preserve physical and documentary evidence (e.g., logs, medical records, and digital files).
• Maintain a strict chain of command for all evidence gathered during the investigative process.
• Assess the relevance and credibility of various data points to build a clear timeline of events.
• Trauma‑Informed Interviewing
• Conduct structured interviews with staff, witnesses, and individuals receiving services.
• Utilize trauma‑informed practices to ensure the psychological safety of interviewees while eliciting accurate information.
• Adapt communication styles to meet the diverse needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism.
• Reporting & Documentation
• Synthesize all findings into a formal Certified Investigator Report (CIR).
• Ensure reports are objective, evidence‑based, and free from personal bias or unsubstantiated opinions.
• Meet all regulatory deadlines for report submission as defined by state oversight entities.
• Root Cause Analysis & Prevention
• Analyze gathered facts to identify underlying root causes of critical incidents.
• Collaborate with management to recommend meaningful corrective actions.
• Provide insights to prevent the recurrence of incidents and improve the overall quality of care.

This full‑time (40 hours per week) hourly position is based in the organization’s corporate office. Hours are generally between 8:00 and 4:30 pm, Monday–Friday, with occasional needs outside of typical business hours.

• State Certification:
  Must have successfully completed the ODP Certified Investigator Initial Course and passed the exam with a minimum score of 80 %.
• Age Requirement:
  Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Education:
  
  High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent required.
• Background Clearances:
  Must pass all mandatory background checks, including:
• PA State Police Criminal Record Check.
• Child Protective Services Law (CPSL) Clearance.
• Older Adult Protective Services Act (OAPSA) Clearance.

Must be able to handle high‑stress situations and sensitive subject matter. Able to travel to various service sites may be required to conduct on‑site evidence collection and interviews.

• Objectivity:
  Ability to remain neutral and detached from internal politics during sensitive investigations.
• Critical Thinking:
  Strong analytical skills to connect disparate pieces of information.
• Writing Proficiency:
  Excellent technical writing skills with the ability to explain complex events clearly and concisely.
• Regulatory Knowledge:
  Deep understanding of Chapter 6100 and ODP (Office of Developmental Programs) incident management regulations.

• Communication & Senses:
  Regularly required to speak and hear effectively. Specific vision requirements include close, distance, color, and peripheral vision, as well as the ability to adjust focus.
• Manual Dexterity:
  Frequently required to use hands and fingers to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools,…