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City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

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Background Investigator


FLSA: Standard/Exempt EEO Category: (50) Para-Prof
Class Code: 11053 Salary Grade: OG6
Approved: Last Revised: September 11, 2017


Purpose:
 

Under general supervision performs duties related to the intake, screening, investigation, and compliance of applicants during the hiring process.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:
  Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
  1. Investigates personal background of candidates for employment with the Austin Police Department.
  2. Review submitted electronic background history statement and supporting documents from applicant for completeness and accuracy; and to check for omissions, errors, inconsistencies, and falsifications.
  3. Communicate with applicants to discuss the background investigative process.
  4. Obtain and review offense reports, witness statements, credit reports, and other documents to determine if the candidate has the appropriate background to become a police officer.
  5. Identify, locate, and interview independent witnesses to the character and personal history of the candidate.
  6. Develop secondary references and make additional inquires to assist in determining credibility of information obtained.
  7. Compile an electronic background investigative packet to include a detailed summary of information found during the investigative process.
  8. Obtain and review applicant records from the FBI, Texas DPS, and county and municipal law enforcement agencies in accordance with TCOLE and Department policy.  
  9. Update and document any changes in applicant status and/or changes to applicant Background History Statement.
Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:
  None.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.
  • Knowledge of applicable processes, techniques, and methods.
  • Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws and ordinances governing personnel activities.
  • Knowledge of city practice, policy, and procedures.
  • Knowledge of Texas Commission on Law Enforcement rules and regulations.
  • Skill in oral and written communication
  • Skill in interviewing techniques
  • Skill in using computers and related software applications.
  • Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
  • Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
  • Skill in planning and organizing.
  • Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
  • Skill in running, reading, and interpreting criminal histories
  • Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
  • Ability to manage conflicts and concerns.
  • Ability to understand and communicate technical information.
  • Ability to exercise discretion in confidential matters.
  • Ability to write clear and concise memorandums, analytical reports, and detailed reports and summaries.
  • Ability to reorganize and recommend process improvement.
  • Ability to lead and train others.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other city employees and the public.
Minimum Qualifications:
 
  • Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent, plus six (6) years’ experience in civil service or corporate background investigations.

OR

  • Six (6) years as a law enforcement officer conducting criminal and/or administrative investigations.
Licenses and Certifications Required:
 

Must be able to obtain National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and Texas Crime Information Center (TCIC) certification within six (6) months of employment.


This description is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty required of the position given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of management to assign, direct and control the work of employees under supervision. The listing of duties and responsibilities shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind or level of difficulty.