Bilingual Farm Labor Law Investigator (Labor Law Investigator)

THE POSITION

The Bureau of Labor Law Compliance, part of the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, plays a crucial role in overseeing and enforcing the state’s regulations that safeguard the rights of agricultural workers, particularly under the Seasonal Farm Labor Act. To fulfill this mission, the Bureau has dedicated a Farm Labor Investigators to focus on enforcement initiatives aimed at protecting some of the most at-risk employees in the Commonwealth—farm workers. If you are passionate about advocating for these essential workers, we encourage you to apply today!

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

The Farm Labor Investigator operates under general supervision to enforce a range of 13 state labor laws, primarily concentrating on the Seasonal Farm Labor Act, with the aim of safeguarding the rights of farm workers in Pennsylvania. This role involves conducting thorough investigations of agricultural labor practices, which includes visiting farms, interviewing growers, employers, labor contractors, and workers, as well as reviewing payroll and employment records to assess adherence to labor regulations. Additionally, the investigator performs inspections of farm labor camps to verify compliance with state laws and identifies any violations of the Seasonal Farm Labor Act and other relevant labor statutes during outreach efforts. Ensuring compliance with both state and federal labor laws is a critical aspect of the position, which also entails preparing comprehensive investigation reports that detail findings, violations, and suggested actions, including referrals for penalties or legal proceedings when warranted.

Furthermore, the investigator plays a vital role in educating farm workers about their rights, such as wage entitlements, safe working conditions, and housing standards, while also informing growers, labor contractors, organizations, employees, and public officials about the legal requirements affecting seasonal farm workers. Participation in community outreach initiatives is essential to raise awareness among both laborers and employers regarding labor rights and responsibilities, particularly concerning health and safety standards. The investigator also provides consultation to farm owners and labor contractors, advising them on their legal obligations and recommending best practices to enhance compliance and ensure worker safety. Maintaining accurate and timely records of investigations, cases, and settlements is crucial, as is the preparation of detailed reports and monthly case summaries for the Director of Labor Law Compliance and the Deputy Secretary for Safety & Labor Management Relations. Collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies and non-profit organizations, is also a key component of the investigator’s responsibilities.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information: 

• Full-time employment, home headquartered
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday – Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• Two years of technical investigative or construction and trades experience and an associate’s degree in a field related to investigative or construction and trades work; or
• One year of technical investigative or construction and trades experience and a bachelor’s degree; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training. 

Additional Requirements:

• You must have possession of an active non-commercial Pennsylvania Class C Driver’s License or equivalent. 
• You must be able to fluently speak, read, and write Spanish.
• You must demonstrate ability to adhere to the values and ethics of the Department of Labor & Industry.
• You must demonstrate ability to work with professionalism, discretion, and good work ethic.
• You must have solid written and verbal communication skills.
• You must show initiative and problem solving skills. 
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Preferred Qualifications (not required):

• Experience in conducting investigations or working in construction and trades, business management, financial services, accounting, or conflict resolution
• An associate’s degree or greater, in a field related to investigative work construction and trades, business management, financial services, accounting, or conflict resolution
• Experience enforcing labor standards or labor and employment laws
• Experience testifying at administrative or court hearings

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans: 

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx and click the Veterans’ Preference tab or contact us at [email protected].

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): 

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date. 

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

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See the total value of your benefits package by exploring our benefits calculator.

Health & Wellness

We offer multiple health plans so our employees can choose what works best for themselves and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package includes health coverage, vision, dental, and wellness programs.*

Compensation & Financial Planning

We invest in our employees by providing competitive wages and encouraging financial wellness by offering multiple ways to save money and ensure peace of mind including multiple retirement and investment plan options. 

Work/Life Balance

We know there’s more to life than just work! Our generous paid leave benefits include paid vacation, paid sick leave, eight weeks of paid parental leave, military leave, and paid time off for most major U.S. holidays, as well as flexible work schedules and work-from-home opportunities.* 

Values and Culture

We believe in the work we do and provide continual opportunities for our employees to grow and contribute to the greater good. As one of the largest employers in the state, we provide opportunities for internal mobility, professional development, and the opportunity to give back by participating in workplace charitable giving.

Employee Perks

Sometimes, it is the little “extras” that make a big difference. Our employees receive special employee-only discounts and rates on a variety of services and memberships.

For more information on all of these Total Rewards benefits, please visit www.employment.pa.gov and click on the benefits box.

• Eligibility rules apply.

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