Background Investigator

This is responsible human resources work in investigation and verification of employment application and personal history data.

An employee in this class is responsible for performing work of a technical and sensitive nature involving the investigation and verification of employment application and personal history data. Work is of more than average difficulty and includes responsibility for performing criminal history, credit and driver’s license checks for applicants being considered for employment or processing applicants during various phases of a public safety personnel selection program. Work involves the verification of employment application data and objective review of personal and criminal history prior to employment. Also included is investigation of an applicant's background for purposes of gathering data necessary to determining whether the applicant fulfills established minimum qualifications in such areas as education, training, work experience, and character for employment. The employee must remain aware of changes in statutory requirements affecting the applicant selection process and report the effect of such changes to management personnel. The employee is required to be aware of the confidentiality of the information obtained and not disclose same to unauthorized persons. Public contact may be involved during investigations, requiring patience, tact and good judgment. Work may involve contacting applicant references to verify work history. Work is performed under general supervision; however, considerable initiative and independent judgment are exercised concerning the appropriate methods and procedures to be utilized. Unusual or difficult problems are referred to a superior who reviews work through consultation, analysis of reports and observation of results obtained.

Conducts applicant background investigations which might include researching criminal history records, conducting personal reference checks, reviewing military service records, performing financial and credit checks, verifying U.S. citizenship, securing proof of education, reviewing vehicle driving record, and verifying the applicant's employment history.

Compiles information obtained during application processing and analyzes data for follow-up and additional research.

Corresponds with local and national law enforcement agencies in researching an applicant's background; conducts elements of background investigations via telephone, by letter, personal interview or computer access; utilizes proprietary and public data sources to gain electronic access to information.

When assigned to Police department, may coordinate TABE testing and out-of-state applicants with the Civil Service process.

Maintains records; compiles reports and briefs supervisor on the progress of background investigations conducted on all applicants in the selection process; reports background investigation results to hiring authorities.

Performs related work as required.

Some knowledge of: principles and practices of personnel management particularly as related to applicant recruiting and employee selection procedures; established minimum qualifications for applicants being investigated; interviewing techniques and practices; research methods and procedures necessary to the completion of comprehensive background investigations; basic statistical concepts and data collection methods; local government organization and public safety administration.

Ability to: conduct a comprehensive background investigation to secure complete and accurate information and report all relevant facts objectively and without bias; maintain a professional demeanor and act with considerable discretion and patience in conducting background investigations; clearly organize and present oral and written reports of findings and recommendations; establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other agencies and the public as necessitated by the work.

Graduation from an accredited four year college or university with a bachelor’s degree in human resources, public administration, or a related field and six (6) months experience in law enforcement, investigations or research; or, an associate's degree and three (3) years of experience in law enforcement, investigations or research.

Possession of a valid Florida driver's license.

Evaluation of education and experience. Drug testing is included in all pre-employment processing.

Employees may be required to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays and overtime as needed. During periods when the Mayor issues an emergency declaration for the City of Tampa, all employees may be required to work in preparation, response or recovery activities related to the stated emergency.

HELPFUL HINTS FOR COMPLETING YOUR APPLICATION: Please register before you begin the application process. This will enable you to view and re-use information from previously submitted applications to complete and submit any future applications. Please make certain your application is complete and the information you provide clearly demonstrates that you possess the minimum job qualifications as stated in the job announcement. Resumes can be submitted in support of an application, but not in lieu of an application. Resumes and copies of certifications or other required documents may be attached to your online application.