Investigating Officer

Investigating Officer

Main purpose of job

To undertake impartial desk-based analysis and investigation of complaints, from people who believe they have been treated unfairly by a public body.

The postholder will be required to prepare detailed written reports.

Summary of principal duties and responsibilities Investigating Officers, acting in accordance with the scheme of delegation that is in place will:

• Investigate and analyse complaints in accordance with the Public Services Ombudsman Act 2016, Councillor Code of Conduct, Local Government Act 2014 and the operational procedures and standards of the Office.
• Communicate effectively with service users and public bodies in line with the values of the office.
• Manage a caseload and other competing priorities while taking personal responsibility for completion of tasks and casework to meet organisational targets, individual performance indicators and service standards.
• Identify the key issues in a complaint and make proportionate enquiries to gather relevant information.
• Analyse large volumes of information from a range of sources, to make a determination on a case.
• Interview parties to the investigation and witnesses as appropriate.
• Reach conclusions, propose findings and make recommendations.
• Develop and issue relevant high quality internal and external communications, including evidence-based briefings for senior management.
• Monitor and evaluate compliance with recommendations made to public bodies.
• Maintain accurate information on the case management system.
• Maintain professional working relationships with colleagues and key stakeholders; and promote the role of the Ombudsman's office at external events.
• Maintain an awareness of changes in public sector policy and environment.

Remuneration

The salary for this post is currently equivalent to National Joint Council (NJC) PO2 which is £39,862 o £42,839 per annum.

Location

The role will be based at NIPSO, Progressive House, 33 Wellington Place, Belfast, BT1 6HN.

Working Hours

The post is full-time (37 hours per week), subject to a probationary period of 9 months.

Working Arrangements

We operate hybrid working arrangements i.e. a mix of working from home and from the office which offers employees additional workstyle choices.

For further information including a Candidate Information Pack and to submit your application, click the apply icon.

Closing Date: Thursday 11 Dec :00