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Director Investigations Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Are you an investigative leader ready to elevate your career into the Federal Senior Executive Service (SES) and direct high-visibility, enterprise-wide accountability initiatives? The VA's Office of ...

Managing Director (Arlington)

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

The Managing Director, Investigations Program, is the senior operational leader responsible for the overall strategy, implementation, scaling, performance, and financial success of a large-scale ...

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Director Investigations information

What does a director of investigations do?

A Director of Investigations oversees and manages investigative operations within an organization, ensuring all inquiries are conducted efficiently, ethically, and in compliance with laws and regulations. They typically develop investigation strategies, supervise teams of investigators, analyze findings, and provide recommendations to leadership. This role often involves working with legal, compliance, and security departments to handle sensitive issues like fraud, misconduct, or policy violations. Directors of Investigations also establish protocols and training to maintain high standards in investigative practices.

What are some common challenges faced by a director of investigations, and how can they be addressed?

A Director of Investigations often encounters challenges such as managing complex, high-stakes cases, balancing confidentiality with transparency, and coordinating cross-functional teams. Successfully addressing these challenges requires strong leadership, effective communication, and the ability to develop clear investigative processes. Staying updated on regulatory changes and fostering a culture of ethical compliance within the organization also helps mitigate risks and ensures thorough, unbiased investigations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of investigations, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Investigations, you need deep expertise in investigative techniques, legal compliance, and risk assessment, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree and significant experience in law enforcement, corporate investigations, or a similar field. Familiarity with case management systems, digital forensics tools, and certifications such as Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is often required. Exceptional leadership, critical thinking, and communication skills are crucial for managing teams, building trust, and navigating complex cases. Mastery of these skills ensures thorough, efficient investigations that protect organizational integrity and mitigate legal or reputational risks.

What is the difference between Director Investigations vs Investigator?

AspectDirector InvestigationsInvestigator
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees and leadership experienceOften requires relevant certifications and experience in investigations
Work EnvironmentOversees teams, strategic planning, and policy developmentConducts investigations, interviews, and evidence collection
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in corporate, government, and legal sectors for leadership rolesCommon in law enforcement, corporate security, and compliance roles

The main difference between Director Investigations and Investigator lies in their scope and responsibilities. Directors focus on managing teams, strategic oversight, and policy, while Investigators handle the hands-on investigation work. Both roles require relevant experience, but Directors typically have more advanced credentials and leadership skills.

What are popular job titles related to Director Investigations jobs in Reston, VA?

For Director Investigations jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Director Investigations jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Director Investigations job openings:

Infographic showing various Director Investigations job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Executive Director Investigations

NACBA

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$180 - $230/hr

Other

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Are you an investigative leader ready to elevate your career into the Federal Senior Executive Service (SES) and direct high-visibility, enterprise-wide accountability initiatives?

The VAโ€™s Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection (OAWP) is seeking an Executive Director to lead the Investigations Directorate, which shares responsibility for implementing OAWPโ€™s mission of promoting and improving accountability across the VA. The Executive Director for Investigations (EDI) directly contributes to strengthening trust in the VA by ensuring fair, transparent, and rigorous investigative processes. This is a pivotal leadership role for professionals committed to protecting whistleblowers, elevating accountability, and strengthening organizational integrity across one of the nationโ€™s largest Federal agencies whose critical mission is to serve those who have served our country.

Key Responsibilities

Reporting directly to the Deputy Assistant Secretary, the EDI leads the Investigations Directorate which includes the Intake and Referral Division, Investigations Division, and the Investigative Attorney Division, and among other things will:

  • Oversee all OAWP investigative functions, ensuring independence, timeliness, statutory compliance, and high-quality outcomes.
  • Direct national-level investigative policies and programs impacting the more than 400,000 VA employees and other stakeholders.
  • Ensure investigations into misconduct and other allegations against VAโ€™s senior leaders, and allegations of whistleblower retaliation against any VA supervisor, are conducted objectively, efficiently, and in accordance with applicable standards.
  • Strengthen cross-agency relationships, including coordination with VA leadership, OIG, Congress, and other oversight entities.
Ideal Candidate

This opportunity is best suited for senior leaders with:

  • Demonstrated executive experience managing large-scale investigative programs, including supervision of attorneys and investigators.
  • Substantial expertise with administrative investigations, whistleblower retaliation law, and significant misconduct inquiries.
  • Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, set strategic direction, and produce high-quality, legally sound investigative work products.
  • Strong qualifications under the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and Technical Qualifications (TQs) for the SES.
  • Experience supervising investigative attorneys is highly desirable.

For more information or to apply, visit https://www.usajobs.gov/job/875805700. All applications must be submitted by midnight on July 27, 2026.

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