Incident Investigator

Job Summary: The Incident Investigator is responsible for conducting thorough, timely, and objective investigations of reportable incidents in the inpatient behavioral health setting.  This includes reviewing documentation, interviewing staff and patients, and preparing clear written findings.  The role also ensures investigations are completed in alignment with New York State requirements, including those established by OMH Part 524 and OASAS Part 836, while maintaining a supportive and professional approach.  The Investigator serves as an active member of the Incident Review Committee and manages multiple incident‑related databases to ensure accurate reporting, tracking, and follow‑up, contributing to a safe and high‑quality care environment.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough, timely, and objective investigations of reportable incidents in the inpatient behavioral health setting.
• Interview patients, staff, and witnesses using professional, trauma‑informed techniques.
• Review documentation such as medical records, staffing logs, and other relevant materials to ensure a complete and accurate investigation.
• Prepare clear, well‑organized investigative reports summarizing findings, contributing factors, and recommended actions.
• Maintain accurate and confidential investigative files in accordance with organizational and state expectations.
• Ensure investigations meet New York State requirements, including those established by OMH Part 524 and OASAS Part 836.
• Conduct investigations consistent with expectations for thoroughness, timeliness, and quality as required for state‑reportable incidents.
• Assist in responding to incidents that require elevated review or Special Investigations under OMH procedures.
• Support compliance with mandated‑reporter requirements, including prompt reporting of incidents to internal leadership and required external systems.
• Maintain complete and accurate documentation needed for state audits, reviews, and quality monitoring.
• Serve as an active member of the Incident Review Committee, presenting investigative findings and participating in review discussions.
• Collaborate with inpatient leadership, clinical teams, Quality, Compliance, and Risk Management to support incident follow‑up and resolution.
• Participate in identifying improvement opportunities and recommending corrective or preventive actions.
• Manage multiple incident‑related databases, ensuring accurate data entry, tracking, and follow‑up.
• Review and monitor incident trends to support safety initiatives and quality improvement efforts.
• Assist the organization in identifying patterns related to patient care, staffing, environment, or processes.
• Support a culture of safety by helping staff understand incident reporting expectations and the importance of timely, accurate documentation.
• Maintain professionalism, objectivity, and emotional composure during sensitive or high‑impact situations.
• Uphold confidentiality and organizational values in all investigation activities.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements:

Experience:

                  5 years inpatient behavioral health experience. Prior investigation experience preferred

Education:

Bachelor’s degree required, Masters preferred (Behavioral Health, Social Work, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or related field).

Licenses / Certifications: N/A

Other: 

• Strong ability to manage and navigate databases and EMR systems.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and time‑management skills.
• Knowledge of OMH Part 524 and OASAS 836 or willingness to learn.
• Ability to collaborate with law enforcement and regulatory bodies as needed, ensuring professional communication and adherence to all legal and organizational protocols.
• Comfortable conducting trauma‑informed interviews with individuals in inpatient settings and supporting the sensitive nature of these cases with care and confidentiality.

Special Requirements:

Justice Center Investigation Training/NYS OMH Investigator Training certification preferred; N.Y.S. Driver’s License