Job Description

Investigator 3

Print (

Apply

?

Investigator 3

Salary

$57,844.80 - $88,067.20 Annually

Location

Des Moines - 50319 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

26-02026

Agency

238 Corrections - Central Office

Opening Date

02/03/2026

Closing Date

2/15/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

Sonya.Sellmeyer@iowa.gov OR Shelby.Gibson@iowa.gov

• Description

• Benefits

• Questions

Job Description

The Iowa Department of Corrections (IDOC) is seeking an Investigator 3 to join the Division of Investigative Services (DIS) team.

The position is primarily responsible for the following duties:

Conduct administrative investigations / incident reviews at a statewide level in accordance with professional investigation standards and as directed by the DIS Supervisor.

Provide immediate on-site response at any institutional or community based correctional location for incidents of a sensitive or criminal nature as the primary or secondary investigator, particularly cases of sexual violence and critical incidents involving IDOC staff and incarcerated individuals / residents.

Conduct investigations of various types as requested by the IDOC Director, Deputy Directors, or institutional / district leadership.

Interview witnesses, properly gather and analyze relative evidence, write detailed investigation reports and summaries, provide verbal reports / briefings, write major incarcerated individual / resident discipline reports and prepare administrative hearing packets, prepare administrative records for judicial and law enforcement authorities, present cases to prosecutors, and assist criminal investigators.

Prepare and organize evidence and necessary testimony related to criminal and administrative violations involving staff or incarcerated individuals / residents within the IDOC including all duties associated with providing evidence to other criminal agencies when appropriate and testify at proceedings of administrative, district court, grand jury and other hearings to present facts and evidence bearing on cases investigated.

Duties also include:

The protection and preservation of confidential evidence and investigation records.

Provision of technical assistance to IDOC sexual violence investigators, to include reviewing investigations and providing overall investigatory guidance.

Provision of assistance and oversight in interagency and intra agency coordination of sensitive high-security information and activities and assistance with critical projects.

Provision of assistance to various law enforcement agencies in gathering requested information / record.

Assist in the planning, development, and presentation of training according to professional standards for new and experienced investigators, employees, and stakeholders.

Assist in the development and implementation of policies and procedures related to the investigation of critical incidents of a sensitive or criminal nature within the IDOC.

This position works from the IDOC Central Office located in Des Moines.

There is a requirement for extensive statewide travel, often with limited notice.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from an accredited four year college or university with major course work in law enforcement, corrections, criminology, police science, accounting, finance or law and experience equal to two years of full-time work in law enforcement, corrections or criminal investigation;

OR

graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in an area not listed above and experience equal to three years of qualifying work;

OR

a combination of education and experience, substituting one year of qualifying full-time experience for each thirty semester hours of general college or university coursework;

OR

employees withcurrentcontinuous experience in the State executive branch that includes experience equal to twelve months of full-time work as an Investigator 1 or 2, or in a comparable position involving investigative work experience.

For additional information, please click on thislink to view the job description ( and\ pay/JobClassDescriptions/Investigator3-00697-80697.pdf) .

Additional Qualification Requirements

Applicants for positions in the Department of Inspections and Appeals must undergo a background investigation which includes a criminal history check and a dependent adult and child abuse registry check.

As required for entry into the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy for designated positions, successful applicants must be of good moral character as determined by a thorough background investigation and not have been convicted of a felony or a crime of moral turpitude; applicants must be a United States citizen.

Some positions may require a valid driver's or chauffeur's license.

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyTotal Compensation Calculator ( .Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.Click here to learn more about IPERS ( .

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?Click here ( to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

Do you understand that the information provided on your application and resume must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your knowledge?

Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

• Yes - I understand and agree

• No

  02

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?

• No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

• Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

  03

Have you graduated from an accredited four year college or university with major course work in law enforcement, corrections, criminology, police science, accounting, finance or law? IF YES - How many years do you have of experience of full-time work in law enforcement, corrections or criminal investigation?

• I don't have any experience in the areas identified

• Less than two years of the experience identified

• Two years or more of experience in the identified areas

  04

Have you graduated from an accredited four year college or university in an area OTHER THAN law enforcement, corrections, criminology, police science, accounting, finance or law? IF YES - How many years of full-time experience do you have in law enforcement, corrections or criminal investigation?

• Graduation from an accredited four year college or university in an area OTHER THAN the areas listed does not apply to me - I have not graduated or my major was in the areas listed

• Less than three years of the experience identified

• Three years or more of the experience identified

  05

How many years do you have of a combination of post high school education and/or full-time work in law enforcement, corrections or criminal investigation? 30 semester hours equals one year of experience.

• I do not have any of the required education and/or experience

• Less than four years of the combined required education and/or experience

• Four years to less than seven years of the combined required education and/or experience

• Seven years or more of the combined required education and/or experience

  06

Are you a current State of Iowa employee - executive branch? IF YES - How many months do you have of full-time work in the classification of Investigator 1 or 2, or in a comparable position involving investigative work experience for the State of Iowa?

• I am not a State of Iowa employee

• I do not have any experience in the classifications/type of work identified - for the State of Iowa

• Less than 12 months of experience in the classifications/type of work identified - for the State of Iowa

• 12 months or more of experience in the classifications/type of work identified - for the State of Iowa

Required Question

Employer

State of Iowa

Agency

238 Corrections - Central Office

Address

Jessie Parker Building

512 E 12th St

Des Moines, Iowa, 50319

Website

Apply

Please verify your email addressVerify Email

Job Tags

Full time, Work experience placement, Work at office, Immediate start

Similar Jobs