The New York State Department of Civil Service (DCS) announced that the application period is now open for New York’s entry-level investigative civil service exams.
The exams, which are used to fill titles in several state agencies, will be held as in-person written exams in April 2023. Qualified candidates can apply online until 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, February 22, 2023.
People interested in being considered for these investigator positions within state government must first meet the minimum qualifications for the title or titles of interest and register for the civil service exam by submitting all the required information by February 22 here.
The exams are multiple-choice tests and will be offered in April 2023. All candidates who are qualified to take the exam will receive an admission notice via mail approximately two weeks prior to the date of the written test. The admission notice will provide the candidate with details about when and where they are scheduled to appear, along with other pertinent information. Candidates will also receive a reminder email in advance of the exam.
The exams are used to fill the following titles at multiple agencies:
Investigator 1
Investigative Officer Trainee
Investigative Officer 1
Investigative Specialist Trainee 1
Investigative Specialist 1
For many of the titles, the exams will also be used to hire individuals to work in Motor Vehicles, Cannabis and Beverage Control investigation. In addition, the exams will be used to hire individuals with proficiency in other languages. While the exam is in English, those with proficiency in other languages will be required to pass a language proficiency exam at the time of hire for certain titles.
To take the Trainee exams, individuals must have:
Either 1. four years of investigative experience;
Or 2. an associate’s degree and two years of investigative experience;
Or 3. a bachelor’s degree or higher.
The entry-level investigative positions perform investigations or investigative activities. These positions require knowledge of a variety of laws, rules or regulations, organized criminal activity or fraud. Investigative positions may use a variety of techniques to obtain information, evidence and prepare written reports.
All positions include generous benefits including paid leave, health benefits, and retirement plans, and telecommuting options may be available to employees in this title who meet certain criteria.
It is estimated that approximately 200 investigative positions will be filled over the next year.
Department of Civil Service Commissioner Timothy R. Hogues said, “The Department of Civil Service is pleased to offer these investigator exams, which are used to fill a number of different investigative titles throughout the state. I encourage all interested and qualified to apply for these exams today.”
New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “Civil service exams are a great way for New Yorkers to gain access to well-paying and fulfilling government careers. I encourage all New Yorkers to apply to have the opportunity to not only work for The Department of Labor, but many other incredible state agencies that are dedicated to serving New Yorkers.”
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “We thank Civil Service for administering this investigative exam because we are always looking for people to join our ranks. DMV investigators are hard at work on a daily basis across the state, getting illegally registered vehicles off the road, working to deter and prevent identity theft-based crimes and otherwise insure the safety of the people of New York State.”
