Senior Investigator/Case Officer

The Role

As an APS 6 Senior Investigation/Case Officer, you will manage a diverse caseload of conduct, performance and attendance matters and contribute to fair, timely and well-reasoned outcomes.

Key responsibilities include:

• Conducting complex inquiries and investigations into suspected breaches of the APS Code of Conduct.
• Managing conduct, performance and attendance-related matters, including Right Track Plans and probation processes.
• Providing expert advice and guidance on sensitive and complex employee matters.
• Building effective working relationships with managers, supervisors and employees across the Department.
• Preparing high-quality correspondence, reports, notices and recommendations for senior decision-makers.
• Managing competing priorities while maintaining accurate and comprehensive records.
• Interpreting and applying relevant legislation, policy and procedural frameworks in line with APS and Defence Values.

This opportunity is available in:

• Canberra, ACT
• Melbourne CBD, VIC

Due to the nature of the role, regular in-person engagement is required for training, collaboration and operational purposes. While Directorate of Conduct and Performance (DCP) supports flexible working arrangements, including working from home by agreement, successful applicants will be required to attend the office a minimum of three days per week.

Applicants located outside Canberra and Melbourne are encouraged to apply. While preference may be given to candidates who can readily meet the role's in-person requirements, exceptional candidates with a strong track record, relevant experience and the ability to meet operational needs will be considered.

About our Team

The Directorate of Conduct and Performance (DCP) provides advice and guidance on conduct and performance management issues. It manages inquiries into suspected breaches of the APS Code of Conduct; and administers and facilitates the management of poor performance of APS employees in accordance with current legislation, policies, business rules and agency best practice.

Our Ideal Candidate

We are looking for people who are curious, adaptable and able to work through complex issues in a fair and balanced way. You may come from a range of professional backgrounds and bring experience in case management, workforce management, policy, governance, operational decision-making or other roles that require sound judgement and strong stakeholder engagement.

You will bring:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• The ability to assess information, identify key issues and develop practical recommendations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to build effective working relationships and manage sensitive conversations with professionalism and empathy.
• Experience managing competing priorities and delivering quality outcomes in a busy environment.
• Sound judgement, attention to detail and a commitment to confidentiality and procedural fairness.
• A willingness to learn and develop capability in investigation and case management practices.

Security Clearance:

Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at “Baseline Vetting” level.

The Department of Defence employs around 18,000 Australian Public Service (APS) employees. Defence APS employees work in a wide variety of critical roles, Australia wide, enabling our three services Navy, Army and Air Force, to do their job. Defence has a range of Australian Public Service (APS) career opportunities that offer interesting, challenging, and unique work. Our workforce includes administrative support, accountants, intelligence analysts, engineers, policy advisors, graphic designers, lawyers, social workers, IT specialists and contract managers to name a few. We offer a rewarding career that includes professional development, work-life balance, recognition, a flexible and supportive work environment and a diverse workforce. To find out more about a career with Defence please visit https://www.defence.gov.au/jobs-careers