Tribal Public Safety Investigator

Summary

The Tribal Public Safety Investigator is responsible for conducting thorough investigations under the direction of leadership. The position requires the ability to prepare detailed investigative reports, collect and preserve evidence, conduct witness and suspect interviews, and testify in administrative or judicial proceedings when required.

Additionally, the Investigator may act as a supervisor or watch commander when needed, ensuring operational continuity during critical incidents or large-scale investigations. The position provides other public safety services to safeguard the lives, property, and rights of Tribal members, guests, and employees. The Investigator is expected to embody and deliver the Five Star Experience, aligning with our Service Promise: “We are the Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians Team, where your experience is our top priority. Every person and detail matters.”

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Provide outstanding customer service to guests, team members, and Tribal partners by exceeding departmental and organizational mission standards.
• Deliver the Five Star Experience to all guests and team members by consistently performing our service expectations of being Welcoming, Proactive, Seamless, Personalized, and Valued.
• Conduct investigations and/or follow-up inquiries related to crimes of violence, Tribal Ordinance violations, property crimes, fraud, workplace misconduct, automobile accidents, or any incident that may expose the Tribe to liability.
• Serve as a liaison with local, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and regulatory bodies for coordination of investigative matters.
• Conduct witness, victim, and suspect interviews; collect, document, and preserve evidence in accordance with proper chain-of-custody protocols.
• Prepare clear, concise, and comprehensive written investigative reports, maintaining accuracy and confidentiality.
• Conduct background investigations, surveillance operations, and special assignments as directed by DPS Administration.
• Review and analyze use of force reports, security footage, and internal documentation to ensure compliance with Tribal policies and applicable laws.
• Assist with investigations involving workplace misconduct, theft, harassment, or safety violations in collaboration with Human Resources.
• Provide investigative support for Tribal enterprises, including casinos, travel centers, and government facilities.
• Review and recommend updates to departmental policies, procedures, and training materials based on investigative findings and emerging trends.
• Maintain case files, evidence records, and databases in compliance with applicable Tribal and federal regulations.
• May perform limited enforcement duties, including detentions, arrests, and evidence recovery in accordance with Tribal authority.
• Respond to scenes of crimes, accidents, and emergencies to conduct preliminary and follow-up investigations.
• Maintain liaison duties with the Tribal Prosecutor’s Office, Gaming Commission, and external law enforcement to ensure coordinated outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with all Minimum Internal Control Standards (MICS) and Tribal Internal Control Standards (TICS).
• Represent the Department of Public Safety in a professional and ethical manner while maintaining the confidence of Tribal leadership and community members.
• Must follow all safety policies and procedures and attend all scheduled training sessions as a condition of employment.
• Perform other duties and assignments as required by DPS Administration.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position does not carry ongoing supervisory responsibilities, however, the Investigator may act as a lead officer or watch commander during incidents or when assigned by administration.

Qualifications

Knowledge And Abilities

• Principles, practices, and procedures of criminal, administrative, and internal investigations.
• Interview and interrogation techniques, evidence collection, and case preparation.
• Applicable Tribal, State, and Federal laws, rules, and regulations related to public safety operations.
• Strong recordkeeping, report writing, and analytical skills.
• Legal and defensive driving practices.
• Familiarity with crime scene management and documentation, including photography and video collection.
• Understanding of Tribal sovereignty, jurisdictional boundaries, and intergovernmental cooperation.
• Ability to analyze complex situations, identify relevant facts, and adopt effective investigative strategies.
• Maintain composure in high-stress or sensitive environments.
• Interpret, apply, and enforce department policies and Tribal Ordinances.
• Operate a variety of specialized law enforcement vehicles, equipment, and investigative tools.
• Maintain strict confidentiality when dealing with sensitive investigations and personnel matters.
• Participate in ongoing perishable skills training including firearms, defensive tactics, and investigative best practices.
• Work flexible hours including day, swing, graveyard shifts, weekends, holidays, and special assignments.

Education And Experience (Must Be Documented)

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate’s degree or higher in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Possession of a valid California POST Academy Certificate or equivalent preferred.
• Minimum of one (1) year of investigative experience in law enforcement, regulatory, or security investigations; equivalent combinations of training and experience may be considered.
• Experience with tribal law enforcement or gaming regulatory investigations preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills required.

Certification, Licenses And Any Additional Requirements

• Must pass periodic random drug screens. 
• Must be able to pass background suitability investigation.
• Must obtain a Tribal Gaming License.
• Must obtain all other applicable certifications and licenses.
• Must provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States within 72 hours of employment.
• Must work overtime when required, at times on short notice.
• Must obtain and maintain CPR First Aid Certification and AED.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Bureau of Security and Investigative Services Guard Card.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Bureau of Security and Investigative Services Exposed Firearms Permit.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Baton certification.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Pepper Spray certification.
• Must possess a CCW permit authorizing possessor to carry concealed firearm in California.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to communicate effectively, stand, walk, and sit for extended periods. The employee may occasionally be required to run, climb, stoop, kneel, push, pull, or lift up to 25 pounds and may push/pull up to 50 pounds. The position requires the use of hands and fingers for handling evidence, documentation, and equipment.

Visual requirements include close and distance vision, color recognition, peripheral vision, and depth perception. The employee may be required to work in low light or confined environments and tolerate moderate to loud noise for extended periods.

Work Environment 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

• Multiple Tribal government and enterprise locations (including gaming and non-gaming environments).
• Some enterprises operate 24/7; flexibility is required to work all shifts.
• Must be available for emergency call-outs 24/7.
• Must be available to work weekends and holidays as scheduled.
• Work may involve exposure to smoke, weather, or environmental elements depending on assignment.
• Surveillance and audio monitoring equipment may be in use at all times across facilities.

Indian Preference Act

The Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians has a resolution on file with Human Resources to ensure that Indian Preference will be adhered to in the following order in accordance with IPA:

                                         1.  Tribal Members

                                         2.  Other Native Americans

                                         3.  All other ethnic groups