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Background Investigator (#RP0120)
$33.50-$40.72 Hourly / $5,807.36-$7,058.88 Monthly / $69,688.36-$84,706.64 Yearly




DEFINITION

Under direction, conducts background investigations of individuals to determine compliance with legal, procedural, policy, and other requirements, and recommends approval or denial of various types of applications; and does related or other work as required in accordance with Rule 3, Section 3 of the Civil Service Rules.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Incumbents in this class conduct thorough and objective background investigations by researching information, evaluating compliance with requirements, and preparing written recommendations based on findings.

TYPICAL DUTIES

  • Conducts thorough and complete background investigations according to department policies, applicable laws, and procedural requirements; reviews information for completeness; identifies and requests additional needed information; obtains proper information release documents.
  • Researches, obtains, and reviews applicant data from various databases and information systems to verify information and/or check for inconsistencies related to applicant information.
  • Gathers, verifies, and analyzes personal, professional, credit/financial, and educational documents; contacts other agencies, governments, and professional organizations as needed to obtain and verify information.
  • Prepares letters, reports and written summary of findings; analyzes investigation results and draws logical and objective conclusions; makes recommendations regarding approval or denial of application.
  • Responds to requests for information; assists other agencies with appropriate requests to provide information regarding applicant background investigations; answers applicant questions; refers requests or questions to managers as appropriate.
  • Attends training sessions, seminars and conferences; trains and advises others as required.
  • May be required to travel to gather and verify information.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Experience:  Either:  1) Two years performing law enforcement investigative work for a government or private investigative agency; or 2) four years as a peace officer in a government law enforcement agency.

 

Substitution:  Completion of a Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) approved Background Investigator course may substitute for six months of the above-required experience.

 

License:  Possession of a valid California driver’s license.

KNOWLEDGE

Principles and practices of law enforcement-related investigation and research; relevant federal, state and local laws, codes, and ordinances related to the legal requirements of background investigations; how to access data in law enforcement electronic information systems; principles of identification; interviewing, negotiation, and conflict management methods and techniques; principles and procedures of recordkeeping and reporting; statistical analysis and data collection; basic computer and modern office automation technology and computer software programs relevant to department operations.

ABILITY

Effectively research and evaluate information and prepare sound recommendations based on research and analysis; demonstrate sensitivity of diverse cultures and individuals; work within stringent deadlines; organize, prioritize and perform multiple tasks to complete work; work independently; read, comprehend and interpret complex written materials; perform detailed work with accuracy; exercise good judgment in safeguarding confidential and sensitive information; exercise diplomacy when dealing with people in sensitive situations; operate computers and related software; establish and maintain effective working relationships with applicants, agencies, employees, and the general public; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Mobility – frequent operation of a data entry device; repetitive motion; sitting, standing, walking for extended periods of time; driving; occasional pushing, pulling, bending, squatting, climbing:   Lifting - frequently 5 pounds or less; occasional 5 to 30 pounds;  Visual - constant good overall vision and reading/close-up work; frequent color perception and use eye/hand coordination; occasional use of depth perception and peripheral vision;  Dexterity-  occasional reaching; grasping; frequent repetitive motion; writing; Hearing/Talking- frequent hearing of normal speech, hearing/talking on the telephone, talking in person;  Emotional/Psychological – constant decision making, concentration, and public contact; public speaking; dealing with emergency situations; Special Requirements –may require working overtime, weekends and nights; working alone;  Environmental – occasional exposure to varied weather conditions.

San Joaquin County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and, upon request, will consider reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

CLASS: RP0120; EST: 1/6/2016 10:56:00 AM; REV: 1/6/2016 10:56:00 AM;