Public Records Specialist

This vacancy is primarily open to current BSO employees holding the Public Records Specialist classification.  To be considered, eligible BSO employees must apply and have completed their probationary period by the closing date.

If no applications from BSO employees holding the Public Records Specialist classification are received, the following candidates will also be considered for the vacancy. 

1. Must be a current BSO employee classified as a Public Records Technician and has successfully completed their probationary period by the listed closing date.
2. Experience entering, querying, retrieving, validating and/or processing data in various database systems preferably in a law enforcement, criminal justice, or public sector governmental agency.
3. Knowledge of public records law and the guidelines of Chapter 119 as it pertains to the dissemination of public records requests.
4. Ability to utilize records software to effectively search, collect and produce records.
5. FCIC/NCIC Limited Access Certification.
6. Possess and maintain a valid Florida driver’s license throughout employment without any restrictions that affect job performance.
7. An equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered. Such experience must be clearly documented for consideration.

Under administrative direction the purpose of the position is to process public records requests submitted to the Public Records Unit of the Broward County Sheriff’s Office.  Employees in this classification are distinguished from the Public Records Technician as assignments are broad in nature requiring latitude for using journey level experience and independent judgment within established guidelines and procedures, only conferring with management on issues which fall outside normal operating procedures. Position performs a variety of administrative activities in response to public and media inquiries for information.  Employees in this classification receive, process, and ensure the availability of records in compliance with the State of Florida guidelines of Chapter 119 public records law. Position utilizes agency software to identify, prioritize, organize, redact and complete records requests. Performs related work as directed.The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position.
 
Responds to public records requests in compliance with the State of Florida guidelines of Chapter 119 public records law.
 
Conducts the more sensitive, high profile and detailed public records requests.
 
Functions in a lead capacity providing guidance and training to subordinate staff involved in the processing of public records requests.
 
Assists the RMLO in performing the final review of public record requests prior to release.
 
Conducts keyword searches, restores BSO emails in response to public records requests; coordinates with ITD in performing detailed searches.
 
Responsible for front desk reception; receives the public and answers questions, in person and by telephone regarding departmental guidelines and procedures for public records requests.  
 
Conducts background checks as requested by the general public.
 
Utilizes agency software to identify, prioritize, organize, redact and complete records requests.
 
Corresponds with parties requesting public records; seek clarification on unclear or large requests; prepares cost estimates in connection with public records requests; collaborates with agency personnel to ascertain the volume and nature of responsive records.
 
Interprets requests to generate search terms for electronic searches and conduct searches utilizing agency software.
 
Identifies record holders and locations of records; determines best strategies to collect all responsive documents from document custodians.
 
Ensures the redaction of confidential, exempt, and sensitive information; prepares appropriate redaction and exemption logs.
 
Provides guidance to agency wide designated records liaisons regarding departmental procedures for public records requests.
 
Maintains and updates list of exemptions to public records per Florida law.
 
Produces responsive documents to the requestor in compliance with the State of Florida guidelines of Chapter 119 public records law.
 
Maintains files and documentation of disclosure activities from time request is opened until completion.
 
Acts as liaison with other agency departments, law enforcement agencies, judicial entities, attorneys, judges, governmental agencies and other entities involved in public records requests.

May provide court testimony and depositions when directed.
 
Processes subpoenas and other legal forms as directed.
 
Uses sound judgment, policy acquired knowledge, and supervisory direction to complete requests.

Attends all required training on public records, disclosure, and records management functions.

Performs related duties as directed.

Tasks involve the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (5-10 pounds). May require physical agility and balance for tasks, such as climbing, kneeling, bending, stooping and/or reaching for objects at or above floor level. Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation. Work is performed in usual office conditions with rare exposure to disagreeable environmental factors.
 
Broward Sheriff’s Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Broward Sheriff’s Office will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.Applicants who qualify will be subject to an extensive selection process and screening program, which may include, but not be limited to evaluation of training and experience; written test; computer based test; interview; polygraph examination; psychological evaluation; employment record, fingerprint and background check; medical examination; and drug screen. The expected duration of the selection process varies by position and could last 10 to 12 weeks. Reapplication will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
 
BSO is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, citizenship status, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. Veterans' preference per Florida law.

Salary : $45,201 - $66,781