The Background Investigator performs professional level investigative and administrative tasks to conduct background investigations on applicants seeking civilian positions in the Office of Homeland Security (OHS), in accordance with the Office of Human Resources Management/public safety policies and procedures. The incumbent carries out these duties under the general supervision of the Office of Human Resources Management, Background and Compliance (BAC) Case Manager or their designee. For the latest opportunities in this role, visit Jobs Every.
Work performance is evaluated by the Supervisor through conferences, completed reports, projects and progress toward meeting the Department’s hiring goals and objectives. The incumbent treats all work and personnel related matters as strictly confidential. Confidential information may not be discussed with other County employees including individuals in the OHS except for work related reasons, under the terms and conditions of the Maryland Public Information Act.
Uses a computer in accordance with standard operating procedures to facilitate completion of divisional / departmental goals and objectives. Maintains the confidentiality and integrity of OHS and ensures that all assignments are performed with due diligence and accuracy.
About The Agency:
The Office of Homeland Security (OHS) was developed as a result of legislation passed in 2003. This new agency incorporated critical emergency response entities that were previously part of other agencies.
The Background Investigator in Public Safety Communications (PSC), which includes all County 9-1-1 operations, emergency dispatch, and radio system support, plays a key role in ensuring personnel integrity and compliance. PSC had previously been part of the Office of Information Technology and Communications (OITC), before structural realignment under the Office of Homeland Security.
The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) was a division of the Fire/EMS Department. OEM and PSC were combined under the leadership of the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Public Safety/Director of Homeland Security, forming the Office of Homeland Security. The legislation and resulting changes to the Charter, spelled out the separate and distinct missions assigned to OEM and PSC.
Examples of Work:
- Conducts fact-finding interviews/conferences with people using interpersonal communication and investigative skills.
- Gathers/obtains relevant information and data through approved agency techniques/procedures as part of the background investigation process.
- Screens/responds to incoming phone calls in order to gather background investigation information, provide assistance to caller, and refer calls to other staff/ agencies.
- Liaison with the OHRM, BAC; assists with community outreach events for OHS.
- Reviews/research/evaluates documentation contained in the applicant case files in order to expedite the completion of cases.
- Conducts final reviews on case file documents to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Completes divisional work assignments/caseload.
- Operates computers in order to:
- Enter, update, and maintain case file data.
- Generate reports and documents.
- Facilitate communication.
- Make themself available by an issued cellular telephone.
- Participate in training activities designed to improve and enhance professional knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Background Investigator Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s Degree in programs involving investigative and social relations skills such as criminology, law enforcement, business, or public administration, one of the social sciences or related fields
- An equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Conditions of Employment: Upon selection, the candidate must:
- Meet all training and performance standards and demonstrate proficiency as required by the agency.
- Wear and use agency protective apparel and equipment in the performance of their assigned duties, if applicable.
- May be required to successfully pass preemployment checks which may include reference checks, background investigations, and drug screenings, where applicable.
- Essential employees are expected to report during standard or non-standard hours as operations necessitate, or during emergencies. Essential employees are expected to report or remain at work when other County employees are granted Administrative Leave.
Eligibility to Work Background Investigator:
Under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, an employer is required to hire only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized alien workers. Applicants who are selected for employment will be required to provide and verify authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Background Investigator positions with this employer are subject to employment eligibility verification through E-Verify. The employer will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S., but only after a Background Investigator candidate has accepted an offer and completed the Form I-9. For more information about E-Verify, or if you believe the County has violated its E-Verify responsibilities, please contact the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at 888-897-7781 or visit dhs.gov/E-Verify.
INTERNAL APPLICANTS Background Investigator:
If you are a current Prince George’s County Government employee and seeking a promotion, in accordance with Section 16-200 of the Personnel Law, you have the right to appeal a rejection rating within five (5) working days of receiving a rejection notice. Union employees should refer to their respective collective bargaining agreement and/or union representative for their grievance procedure.
How to Apply Background Investigator ?
If you want to apply for this position and meet the required criteria can apply through the link