Investigator (Investigator V)

MISSION: The Texas Education Agency (TEA) will improve outcomes for all public-school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

Core Values:
• We are Determined: We are committed and intentional in the pursuit of our main purpose, to improve outcomes for students.
• We are People-Centered: We strive to attract, develop, and retain the most committed talent, representing the diversity of Texas, each contributing to our common vision for students.
• We are Learners: We seek evidence, reflect on success and failure, and try new approaches in the pursuit of excellence for our students.
• We are Servant Leaders: Above all else, we are public servants working to improve opportunities for students and provide support to those who serve them.

New hires, re-hires, and internal hires will typically receive a starting salary between the posted minimum and the average pay of employees in their same classification. Offers will be commensurate with the candidate’s experience and qualifications and will thoughtfully consider internal pay equity for agency staff who perform similar duties and have similar qualifications. The top half of the posted salary range is generally reserved for candidates who exceed the requirements and qualifications for the role. The maximum salary range is reserved for candidates that far exceed the required and preferred qualifications for the role.

Position Overview

The Texas Education Agency’s Office of Governance (OG) is driven by a powerful mission: to proactively support school systems, keep students safe, and uphold Texas education law with integrity, objectivity, and excellence. Our core workstreams—Field Support and Compliance & Investigations—focus on strengthening governance, fostering a culture of accountability, and promoting continuous improvement across Texas schools. By working closely with school systems and agency teams, we help ensure that every Texas public school student has access to a safe, high-quality education.

The Special Investigations Division (SID) is dedicated to safeguarding student welfare and ensuring that Local Education Agencies (LEAs) comply with regulatory standards in the Texas educational system. The division plays a pivotal role in upholding the integrity of education by conducting thorough compliance reviews and leading high-profile investigations into violations of laws governing the Texas educational system. These investigations include misconduct and wrongdoing by district officials and trustees. The three primary teams within SID are Academic and Program Integrity, Fiscal Integrity, and Compliance Review.

The Investigator will conduct advanced investigations into complex allegations, including fraud, academic manipulation, and governance conflicts, while contributing to division-wide initiatives and training. This role performs senior-level investigative work with minimal supervision, exercising substantial initiative and independent judgment. The Investigator frequently plans and organizes complex investigations and contributes to division expertise by developing and delivering training on investigative techniques and best practices. This role requires strong analytical skills, sound judgment, and the ability to communicate effectively with internal teams, school personnel, and external stakeholders. Successful candidates will join a mission-driven team committed to protecting students and maintaining accountability in Texas public education.

**Flexible work location within the state of Texas may be considered for qualified candidates. **

**Please note that a resume, tailored cover letter, and short answer responses are required attachments for applying to this position. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who are strongly being considered for employment must submit to a national criminal history background check. **

Essential Functions
Job duties are not limited to the essential functions mentioned below. You may perform other functions as assigned.

1. Complex Investigations: manage allegations involving assessment irregularities, academic manipulation, financial mismanagement, fraud, governance conflicts, and educator misconduct under Chapter 39 TEC; coordinate with internal and external divisions to ensure investigative plans align with priorities and time standards.

2. Analytical Depth: apply advanced techniques and tools to identify risk, assess red flags, and recommend resolutions; analyze all complaint information and investigation data for context and significance

3. Comprehensive Reporting: produce detailed reports, case briefings, and referrals that effectively communicate evidence-based findings for internal and external stakeholders

4. Court Testimony: testify in administrative, civil, or criminal proceedings; develop professional exhibits and provide litigation support to legal staff

5. Division Collaboration: contribute to operational improvement projects, policy development, and maintain standards in Texas public education