BACKGROUND INVESTIGATOR

Overview

This is a non-sworn, civilian position responsible for conducting comprehensive background investigations for applicants seeking employment within the City and Police Department. Duties include interviewing applicants, contacting former employers and personal references, conducting neighborhood canvasses, and performing criminal and civil history checks. Investigators will compile findings into formal written reports.

Collaboration

The Background Investigator works under the supervision of the Professional Compliance Section Commander and collaborates closely with the City's Human Resources Department. Building and maintaining effective working relationships with other law enforcement agencies is essential to support the investigative process.

This is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific tasks.

Responsibilities

Conducts background investigations, including but not limited to : criminal history checks (NCIC / FCIC); education and employment verification; review of personnel files from other agencies; civil and court record checks (e.g., Clerk of Courts); neighborhood and reference interviews; and online and social media research.

May serve as the Department's Subject Matter Expert (SME) for applicant pre-screening and application review.

May participate in applicant interviews and selection process.

Prepares and submits comprehensive investigative summary reports with recommendations to the Chief of Police and Human Resources Department.

Maintains and ensures background and investigative activities are accurate and in accordance with Department procedures and relevant legal standards.

Perform other related duties, as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of modern law enforcement principles, procedures, techniques, and equipment. Knowledge of applicable laws, ordinances, and department rules and regulations. Knowledge of basic recruitment and hiring practices. Proficient in the use of personal computers and related software, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and mapping software. Experience with CJIS, OSSI, EDEN, FCIC, NCIC, ALPR software, and public databases.

Skilled in conducting backgrounds, investigations and interviews. Skilled in analyzing and categorizing data, identifying patterns, and applying statistical research techniques. Ability to interpret intelligence data, conduct analytical investigations, and evaluate information for validity and reliability.

Strong written and verbal communication skills; capable of presenting findings clearly and concisely. Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Ability to make discretionary decisions pertaining to confidential matters. Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and sound judgment. High level of initiative, self-motivation, and strong interpersonal skills. Ability to manage time efficiently and prioritize tasks.

Education & Experience Requirements

Education & Experience Requirements : Requires a high school diploma or GED; with a minimum of minimum of three (3) years of experience in law enforcement, background investigations, human resources, or a related field. Experience with law enforcement databases (e.g., NCIC / FCIC, DAVID) and investigative tools preferred. Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology, or a related field preferred. An equivalent combination of education and / or experience may be considered. Must possess and maintain a valid Florida driver's license and satisfactory driving history throughout employment.

Applicants qualifying for employment will be subject to a polygraph examination and an extensive background screening.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The employee must occasionally lift and move up to 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, ability to see in dimmed lighting and the ability to adjust focus. The noise level is quiet to moderately loud. Sometimes work is stressful when working under stringent time constraints. Work is performed in a temperature controlled modern office setting, mostly from a seated position at a modular workstation. Local travel may be required to gather evidence or conduct in-person interviews. May require flexible hours, including evenings and / or weekends, based on investigative needs

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