Police Background Investigator

The Background Investigator's principal role is to conduct detailed background investigations, ensuring that all candidates meet the requirements for employment with the Alexandria Police Department. The Background Investigator works within the Emergency Readiness and Training Division and plays a critical part in the hiring process by gathering, analyzing, and verifying personal data, employment history, and legal records provided by candidates. This role involves coordinating with various local, state, and federal agencies to verify information and maintain high standards of candidate evaluation. The investigation process can include interviews with references, employers, neighbors, and other individuals who may have knowledge of the candidate’s character and qualifications. The Background Investigator must also manage sensitive information with discretion and uphold the privacy and dignity of all applicants throughout the investigative process. The successful candidate will assist with the review of background information submitted by prospective applicants for vacant positions in both sworn and professional classifications.The ideal candidate should have the ability to conduct comprehensive, detailed background investigations, organize and investigate multiple cases simultaneously, and produce professional reports and verbal presentations to address recommendations or concerns when necessary. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential, and bilingual skills would be a bonus. The candidate should be willing to adjust their work schedule, including some weekends on occasion, to meet the needs and deadlines of the department. They must be able to conduct home and business visits as required to complete investigations. The ideal candidate will show the proven ability to work as a team member who adds value to the organization.The Opportunity – Examples of Work

Conduct personal and professional interviews for potential candidates.Conduct thorough background investigations on candidates, following established departmental policies and procedures.Verify information provided by candidates, including education, employment, military service, and professional references.Conduct interviews with references, employers, neighbors, and other individuals who may have knowledge of the candidates’ character and qualifications.Prepare comprehensive reports, including summaries of findings and recommendations for hiring; analyze investigation results and draw logical and objective conclusions; make recommendations regarding suitability for employment.Maintain confidentiality of all information obtained during investigations.Check applicants’ social media presence and online activity; research criminal history records, driving history, and other public records.Make recommendations regarding the suitability of applicants.Stay current on best practices in background investigations and implement new techniques as needed.Collaborate with the recruiter to ensure a seamless transition of applicants through the hiring process.Attend training sessions, seminars, and conferences; train and advise others as required; may be required to travel to interview sources and verify information.Perform related work as required.Requirements

Minimum Requirements:Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university; minimum of two (2) years of background investigation experience or an equivalent combination of job-related experience and education.Must take the state mandated Virginia Criminal Information Network certification class and pass a written examination within six months of hire.Preferred Qualifications:Five (5) years of general investigative/employment experience; ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; experience using Microsoft Office products and internet research tools; must successfully pass a background investigation, including fingerprint check, and be eligible to obtain certification as a Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) Operator Level B; possess a valid driver's license and may be required to provide copies of driving record periodically for verification of driving status; experience as a law enforcement officer for a local, state, federal agency, or military; experience using law enforcement databases (VCIN, NCIC, Linx) and open-source materials to conduct investigations; bilingual; exceptional communication skills.Notes:This position requires the successful completion of the following pre-employment background checks:Polygraph examinationPsychological examinationDrug ScreenCriminal Background Checks (local and federal)Valid Driver's License

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