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Research Associate, CSPL DCFS OIG

Posting Category: E

 

About UIS: Located in the state capital, the University of Illinois Springfield is one of three members of the University of Illinois system. The University serves more than 4,000 students in 44 graduate and 56 undergraduate programs. You are encouraged to visit the university web page at http://www.uis.edu.

Application deadline: 5/25/2026

Minimum Starting Salary: $59,090 annually

Summary:
The primary purpose of this position, located in either Chicago or Springfield, is to assist the Office of the Inspector General with investigative research of targeted areas of practice and procedures of the Department of Children and Family Services and its contracted agencies. Conduct academic evidence-based research relevant to OIG investigations and error reduction training. Assist in conducting confidential and sensitive investigations of child deaths/serious injuries and allegations of misconduct or violations of rules, procedures or laws by DCFS employees, foster parents, service providers and contractors.
As a member of the University and DCFS Office of the Inspector General, assists the Office of the Inspector General with academic evidence based research and in conducting confidential and sensitive investigations of child deaths/serious injuries and allegations of misconduct or violations of rules, procedures or laws by DCFS employees, foster parents.


Duties & Responsibilities:

Assist the Office of the Inspector General with investigative research of targeted areas of practice and procedures of the Department of Children and Family Services and its contracted agencies. Conduct academic evidence-based research relevant to OIG investigations.

Assist in conducting confidential and sensitive investigations of child deaths/serious injuries and allegations of misconduct or violations of rules, procedures or laws by DCFS employees, foster parents, service providers and contractors.

Conducts academic evidence-based research in support of error reduction training.

Coordinate the retrieval of relevant confidential records through impound and subpoena. Reviews and analyzes records and documentation by Department, private agency and external entities.

Performs other related work as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:
(1) Master’s degree in area of social work, public administration, law enforcement, public health, or related area.

 

Travel Requirements:
5% To conduct interviews

Employment Policies and other information:

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer dedicated to building a community of excellence, equity, and diversity. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment and we welcome applications from qualified individuals of all backgrounds and identities. The University of Illinois System does not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on their real or perceived race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, order of protection status, genetic information, marital status, disability, sexual orientation including gender identity, unfavorable discharge from the military or status as a protected veteran and will comply with all federal and state nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action laws, orders and regulations. Visit University of Illinois Non-Discrimination Statement

The University of Illinois System conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment. Convictions are not a bar to employment. Background checks will be performed in compliance with state and federal law.

The University of Illinois System requires candidates selected for hire to disclose any documented finding of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment and to authorize inquiries to current and former employers regarding findings of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment. For more information, visit Policy on Consideration of Sexual Misconduct in Prior Employment.

As a qualifying federal contractor, the University of Illinois System uses E-Verify to verify employment eligibility.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

UIS employment in this role is not covered by Social Security, and instead, is covered by the State University Retirement System.

• You will not pay Social Security taxes and your earning will not be on your Social Security Record. (Your record will, however, show your Medicare wages.
• Your pension from the State Universities Retirement System may affect the amount of your:

1. Social Security benefit and
2. Social Security benefit as a spouse

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted by contacting UIS HR at [email protected] or call 217-206-6652.

***Please Note: All postings close at 5:00pm CST on the posting close date.***