Insurance Compliance Investigator

Job Overview:

The Administrative Enforcement Section ("AES") is dedicated to upholding the Department's investigative and enforcement responsibilities. The Department oversees a diverse range of services that impact the daily lives of Arizona consumers.

The AES plays a crucial role in safeguarding Arizona's consumers from unethical practices while ensuring that the state's laws are fairly enforced against any regulated or unauthorized individuals or entities engaging in illicit activities.

This investigator role involves conducting thorough investigations, gathering facts, managing cases, and maintaining clear documentation.

Investigations may involve consumer grievances related to: 1) individuals or entities operating without a license, or 2) licensed professionals, such as financial institutions or insurance agents, who may be involved in misconduct.

The Investigator will take pride in their contributions by examining the details of each case and supporting the prosecution of violations committed by individuals and entities under the Department's jurisdiction. This position is dynamic and engaging, offering significant opportunities to learn about the intricacies of the insurance and financial services sectors.

The Investigator role is fully remote, with the possibility of occasional travel for in-person meetings or specific tasks. The ideal candidate is self-driven, inquisitive, detail-oriented, and committed to pursuing justice, while also managing a diverse and stimulating caseload independently.

The position empowers the Investigator to work semi-autonomously, taking ownership of their assigned cases.

Investigation and Fact Gathering:

• The primary responsibility of an Investigator is to collect all pertinent information to ascertain whether a violation of applicable laws and regulations has occurred. A typical investigation includes multiple steps, such as assessing jurisdictional issues for each case, organizing complaint files, corresponding with all involved parties, conducting under-oath examinations, analyzing collected evidence, drafting subpoenas for additional information, researching relevant databases, and preparing disposition reports upon completing the investigation. The Investigator must possess the ability to critically evaluate insurance and financial documents, efficiently utilize online resources and databases, and meticulously document the progression of each case.

• Furthermore, the Investigator may participate in subsequent administrative proceedings related to their investigation, which involves collaborating with the Department's attorney, thoroughly reviewing relevant documents, and serving as a witness on behalf of the Department in administrative or judicial settings.

Case Management:

• The Investigator is responsible for tracking all ongoing investigations by maintaining electronic case files within the Department's case management system. They will keep comprehensive records of all written, telephonic, or in-person communications related to their investigations. The Investigator will also maintain an updated spreadsheet of active cases, detailing each case's status and any pending issues requiring supervisory input. Additionally, the Investigator may be asked to provide case updates as needed.

• The Investigator will frequently communicate with all parties involved in an investigation, including Arizona consumers, and is expected to maintain a professional and respectful tone in all interactions (both verbal and written) that reflect the Department's commitment to consumer protection and law enforcement.

Documentation:

• The Investigator will draft a disposition report upon completing their investigation, compiling exhibits and documenting their findings, citing any statutory violations, and recommending appropriate sanctions for breaches of Arizona laws. The report will reference each exhibit and arrange them chronologically to support the Investigator's conclusions.

• Additionally, the Investigator must document all steps taken during the investigation and save all forms of communication related to the case in the Department's database.

• Other responsibilities include participating in team meetings, compiling reports, and holding weekly one-on-one meetings with supervisors or the Department's legal team.

Knowledge:

• Familiarity with computer software such as Gmail, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Access.

• Understanding of laws, rules, and regulations related to insurance or financial institutions is preferred but not mandatory.

• Knowledge of general investigative techniques, including the use of subpoenas and conducting under-oath examinations.

• Awareness of Arizona Revised Statutes Title 20, Title 6, Title 32, and Title 44 is preferred but not mandatory.

• Proficiency in professional correspondence formats and grammar in both written and verbal communications.

• Experience with publicly accessible investigation and research websites and tools.

• General understanding of insurance terminology, concepts, and accepted industry practices.

• Knowledge of the functions and responsibilities of each division within the agency.

Skills:

• Strong record-keeping abilities related to numerous documents and complex files.

• Capability to develop a coherent investigative plan for all open cases while considering ongoing tasks.

• Critical thinking skills to analyze complex factual scenarios and their applicability to various laws and regulations.

• General understanding of how to apply facts to the requirements and directives of applicable laws.

• Excellent communication skills and composure to manage interactions with investigated parties.

• Ability to multitask and manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

• Planning and organizational skills adaptable to a varied workload.

• Flexibility to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

• Adaptability to changing conversational dynamics.

Abilities:

• Ability to interpret the practices and procedures of insurance companies, producers, adjusters, bail bonds agents, surplus lines brokers, and other licensed entities as governed by Arizona laws, rules, and policies.

• Ability to communicate clearly, effectively, and diplomatically in writing, in person, and on the telephone in both routine and complex situations with consumers, attorneys, insurers, producers, licensed entities, agency staff, and other state and federal employees, using proper English, spelling, and vocabulary.

• Ability to research and analyze agency and public records/data relevant to effective complaint investigations and apply the results to the prosecution of respondents at administrative hearings.

• Ability to read and analyze complex legal contracts, insurance policies, third-party administration agreements, and other technical documents.

• Ability to work collaboratively and maintain effective professional relationships with supervisors, agency staff, insurers, producers, other regulated entities, consumers, and other parties seeking information or assistance from the agency.

• Self-motivation and the ability to conduct investigative tasks with minimal supervision.

• Ability to testify at administrative hearings regarding facts and circumstances of personal knowledge.

• Proficiency in writing, typing, and proofreading documents and email communications.

• Ability to quickly adapt to new tasks with little notice.

• Ability to manage a changing caseload.

• Ability to conduct interviews.

• An ideal candidate will engage in thorough fact-finding with minimal supervision, demonstrating a strong desire to resolve each specific case. While experience in the insurance or financial services sector is preferred, it is not a requirement.

• Previous experience in fact-gathering or investigative roles is highly preferred. A strong candidate will be driven, organized, and enthusiastic about helping consumers and addressing misconduct.

• Excellent communication skills, strong organizational abilities, and the capacity to manage multiple projects simultaneously are essential for success in this role.

• Candidates who drive for state business are subject to driver's license record checks, must maintain acceptable driving records, and complete any required driver training.

• A current, valid state-issued driver's license appropriate to the assignment is required.

The State of Arizona offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Optional employee benefits such as short-term disability insurance, deferred compensation plans, and supplemental life insurance.

• Life insurance and long-term disability insurance.

• Vacation plus 10 paid holidays each year.

• Health and dental insurance.

• Retirement plan.

• Sick leave.

For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our website.

• Positions in this classification participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS).

• Note that enrollment eligibility will become effective after 27 weeks of employment.