Part-Time Outside Investigator - Title Services Fort Bend County is ranked as one of the fastest growing counties in the nation. We have capitalized on not only the creed of our location, but on the "quality of life" for our families to call home. Our employees are the key to our success and the heartbeat of our foundation. The diversity and inclusivity of our community is our strength and at the forefront of a workplace environment welcoming to all. Live Here! Work Here! The Part-Time Outside Investigator - Title Services provides investigative support to the Fort Bend County Tax Office involving motor vehicle title and registration matters, suspected fraudulent activity, questionable documentation, and other matters requiring additional research or field investigation. The investigator will work closely with Tax Office administration and Title Services staff and, when appropriate, coordinate with the Fort Bend County Attorney's Office, law enforcement agencies, the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV), and other governmental entities. The position is intended to strengthen fraud prevention, protect County and State interests, assist with complex title-related cases, and provide investigative support in matters that extend beyond normal clerical or administrative review.
Duties & Responsibilities:
Investigate suspected fraudulent or irregular motor vehicle title and registration transactions referred by Tax Office administration or Title Services. Review title applications, supporting documents, identification records, transaction histories, correspondence, and other information related to assigned investigations. Conduct field investigations when necessary to verify information, locate individuals or businesses, confirm addresses, and obtain information relevant to an investigation. Interview customers, employees, witnesses, dealers, title service companies, and other individuals who may have information relevant to an assigned case. Investigate suspected forged, altered, fraudulent, or otherwise questionable documents submitted in connection with motor vehicle title or registration transactions. Assist in identifying patterns or trends that may indicate title fraud, identity fraud, fraudulent documentation, misuse of Tax Office processes, or other suspicious activity. Gather, organize, preserve, and document information and evidence obtained during investigations. Prepare clear, accurate, and detailed investigative reports summarizing findings, interviews, documentation reviewed, actions taken, and recommended next steps. Maintain an investigative case log and provide periodic status updates to designated Tax Office administration. Coordinate with the County Attorney's Office and appropriate law enforcement or regulatory agencies when a matter may require additional investigation, legal review, or referral. Assist Tax Office administration in determining whether suspected fraudulent activity should be referred to the appropriate law enforcement or governmental agency. Work with TxDMV and other governmental entities, as authorized, to obtain or verify information related to title and registration investigations. Provide investigative assistance regarding complaints involving title services, motor vehicle dealers, title service companies, customers, or transactions when assigned by Tax Office administration. Assist with investigations involving suspected internal misconduct related to motor vehicle title or registration transactions when specifically assigned by Tax Office administration and handled in accordance with County policies and applicable law. Maintain confidentiality of investigative information, employee information, customer information, motor vehicle records, and other sensitive or legally protected information. Handle investigative records and evidence in accordance with applicable County procedures, retention requirements, confidentiality requirements, and chain-of-custody practices when applicable. Testify or provide information regarding investigative findings in administrative, civil, or criminal proceedings when properly requested or required. Attend meetings with Tax Office administration, the County Attorney's Office, law enforcement, TxDMV, or other agencies regarding assigned investigations. Provide recommendations for improving internal controls, procedures, documentation requirements, or fraud-prevention measures when an investigation identifies vulnerabilities within Title Services operations. Assist with special investigative projects or assignments involving Title Services and motor vehicle operations as directed by the Tax Assessor-Collector, Chief Deputy, or authorized designee.
Knowledge and Skills:
Strong investigative, interviewing, research, and fact-finding skills. Ability to recognize inconsistencies, suspicious documentation, and potential indicators of fraud.
Ability to review and analyze complex records and transactions. Strong written communication and investigative report-writing skills.
Ability to conduct professional interviews involving sensitive or potentially adversarial situations.
Sound judgment and discretion when handling confidential information.
Ability to work independently while maintaining communication with Tax Office administration.
Ability to interact professionally with County employees, customers, attorneys, law enforcement officers, governmental agencies, and members of the public.
Knowledge of investigative procedures, evidence handling, and documentation practices.
Familiarity with motor vehicle title and registration laws and TxDMV procedures is preferred.
Ability to maintain impartiality and objectively document investigative findings.
Minimum Requirements:
Prior experience in law enforcement, criminal investigations, fraud investigations, regulatory investigations, motor vehicle/title investigations, or a closely related investigative field is preferred. Experience investigating fraud, financial crimes, identity theft, document fraud, motor vehicle offenses, or government-related matters is highly desirable.
Salary: $28.80 hourly (29 Hours/week)
Closing Date: Upon filling position
