Adult Protective Investigator

How you will make an impact

This professional position investigates allegations of abuse, neglect, self‑neglect, and financial exploitation against vulnerable adults and mitigates risk factors involved. Clients served include those residing in the community and alternative care facilities. Vulnerable adults in crisis need quick action from strong, compassionate individuals dedicated to ensuring their safety and independence.

• Meet with the vulnerable adult in person within 24 hours of receiving a report to assess safety concerns and mental capacity.
• Coordinate emergency services including medical evaluations, temporary placement, and court intervention when the person cannot make decisions for themselves.
• Investigate allegations of abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation and work to prevent reoccurrence.
• Gather critical information about vulnerable adults and others involved through interviews, observations, and analysis of criminal history, prior APS involvement, and records uncovered during investigations.
• Coordinate with state agencies, law enforcement, and prosecutors to provide justice for vulnerable adults.
• Connect vulnerable adults with agency and community resources to wrap‑around services needed to improve quality of life.
• Build relationships with organizations involved in adult protective investigations such as community services, advocacy groups, law enforcement, medical personnel, and other community resources.

Through the Career Ladder program you may increase your salary by completing targeted courses designed to enhance your knowledge and expertise in Adult Protective Services and professional development.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED equivalent with four years of law enforcement experience or active military service (honorably discharged or currently serving honorably).
• or an associate degree or 60+ credit hours from an accredited college or university and two years of professional work experience (e.g., Guardian Ad Litem, Family Support Worker, Group Home Worker, Teacher's Assistant, Daycare Provider, Therapeutic Assistant, Behavioral Health Technician, Family Intervention Specialist, Home Health Aide, LPN/RN, Nursing Facility Assistant, EMT, or other welfare, education, or medical professional roles).
• or an associate degree with two years of law enforcement experience, or active military service.
• or a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and an official letter or unofficial transcripts with anticipated graduation dates and credits earned.

You must provide proof of conferred degree (official transcripts or diploma copy) within 30 days of hire.

Other Requirements

• Valid driver’s license and possession of an operational private vehicle; proof of vehicle registration and insurance coverage required within 30 days of employment.
• Ability to attend a 6‑8‑week mandatory training course.
• Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays; position designated as essential and may require work before, during, and beyond normal hours, including emergency situations and natural disasters.
• Ability to perform physical tasks such as ambulation, assisting with evacuation, repetitive movements, driving, and remaining alert while on duty.

Language proficiency may be considered. Candidates may be required to complete a pre‑interview assessment or work sample.

Incumbents may be exposed to hazardous conditions in the field and are required to respect privacy and confidentiality policies. Employees must work in compliance with the State of Florida Direct Deposit Program and provide documentation of insurance coverage.

Applicants must successfully complete a State and National criminal history check. Background investigations include fingerprinting for state and national criminal records checks and may include local history checks. Employees will be retained in the State and National RAP back program.

Male candidates born on or after October 1, 1962 must be registered with the Selective Service System before their 26th birthday or…