Extra-Help Background Investigator

• 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;
• Interviews family members, friends, neighbors, employers and others to obtain 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;
• When assigned to District Attorney’s Office investigate requests for rehabilitation and pardon, 1203.4 conviction dismissals, and post-conviction work;
• Make recommendations; testify in court as required;
• When assigned to Sheriff’s Office conduct investigations for Carry Concealed Weapons (CCW) permits; and
• Performs other duties as required.

• 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 record keeping and reporting;
• Statistical analysis and data collection;
• Basic computer and modern office automation technology and computer software programs relevant to department operations;
• Law enforcement databases;
• Report writing techniques; and
• English language.

• 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; and
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

• Two years performing law enforcement investigative work for a government agency; OR
• Five years as a peace officer in a government law enforcement agency. Must have left employment in good standing.

• Completion of a Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) approved Background Investigator course within six months of appointment; OR
• Completion of a Background Investigation course through the Standards and Training for Corrections (STC) with the Board of State and Community Corrections of California.

• Possession of a valid California driver’s license.

• Must be a current contract employee at Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office.

• Application Review and Screening. Applications are carefully screened based on information provided. Those who submit incomplete applications that lack relevant qualifications or do not submit all required documents will not be invited to move on.
• Written Examination. Applicants will be invited to participate in a written exam that tests knowledge for the position.
• Oral Examination. Applicants are invited to a panel interview in which they will be evaluated by County subject matter experts.
• Eligible Lists. Candidates who pass the examination will be placed on an eligible list for that classification. Eligible lists are effective for six months, but may be extended up to eighteen months.

Stanislaus County

(209) 525-6341