Adult Protective Services Investigator

DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC SECURITY:
Your Partner For A Stronger Arizona.

DES works with families, community organizations, advocates and state and federal partners to realize our collective vision: A thriving Arizona.

DES serves more than 3 million Arizonans.

Our Mission is to strengthen individuals, families, and communities for a better quality of life.

Job Location:

Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) – Adult Protective Services (APS), 8620 North 22nd Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona 85021.

Salary: $21.50 - $22.59 per hour. Grade: 18. Closing Date: 1/18/2026.

Would you like to be part of an amazing team that helps Arizonans thrive? At the Department of Economic Security (DES) we strengthen individuals, families, and communities for a better quality of life. DES is looking for individuals who are committed to service, community, and teamwork. To learn more about DES visit des.az.gov or click on the link here to view “Our DES” video.

Come Join the DES Team!

Do you have a desire to support the vulnerable? Adult Protective Services (APS) seeks individuals to join our team as an APS Field Investigator. As an investigator, you will investigate allegations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable adults (those unable to defend themselves), 18 years of age or older. This is an ideal position for someone who is highly motivated, has problem‑solving and decision‑making skills, enjoys working independently in the field, and can provide comfort and resources to those who need help.

You will interact with adults and family members in their home or care facilities and coordinate with external partners that range from caregivers, medical personnel, police, public fiduciaries, the public, and others in the course of your investigations. If you are passionate about protecting the most vulnerable adults in Arizona, we want you on our team! Please review the video at  to learn more about the APS Investigator's role and responsibilities.

• Investigates, assesses, evaluates, documents, and provides referral of appropriate services for complex case investigations involving vulnerable and incapacitated adults, 18 years of age(student) or older, alleged to be abused, neglected and/or exploited.
• Determines if there is a need for protective and/or social services.
• Makes time‑sensitive contacts with clients and interviews anyone who may have information regarding the situation.
• Writes various assessments and summaries regarding the case.
• Analyzes a variety of complex documents.

Knowledge of:

• Physical and behavioral indicators of neglect and abuse of adults with mental disabilities or seriously mentally ill and frail elderly.
• Case investigation and social work practicesock and principles (e.g., elder rights, psychological abuse, adult maltreatment, etc.).
• Appropriate interventions for a variety of behavioral, developmental, and psychological symptoms.

Skills in:

• Oral and written communication.
• Time management and organization.
• Critical thinking.
• Using computer software packages (e.g., Excel, Word, Google Suite, etc.).

Ability to:

• Understand and apply Federal and state statutes, APS regulations, policies and procedures related to reporting of vulnerable adult maltreatment.
• Write clear, concise, and accurate reports.
• Quickly assess, prioritize, and process report cases when received.
• Handle clients and callers in a professional, calm manner eliciting information quickly and efficiently.

The ideal candidate for this position will have:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice,  Healthcare, or a closely related field OR
• One (1) year of experience providing professional Case Management / Investigations Services (Intake, Needs Assessment, Service Planning, and Monitoring and Evaluation).

• In‑state travel is required. Driver’s License Requirements:
  Any employee operating a motor vehicle on state business must possess and retain a current, valid class‑appropriate driver’s license, complete all required training, and successfully pass all necessary driver’s license record checks. The…