Background Investigation Officer (As-Needed)

City of Santa Monica•Santa Monica, CA

19h•Onsite

About The Position

This is an as-needed, part-time opportunity for retired law enforcement officers to utilize their experience in conducting comprehensive background investigations for prospective sworn safety and civilian applicants for the Police Department. The role involves obtaining and reviewing criminal history records, evaluating financial history, interviewing applicants and references, and preparing thorough background files and final synopses for hiring approval. While it is an as-needed position without benefits, it offers flexible hours and a chance to stay engaged in law enforcement while contributing to the Santa Monica community.

Requirements

High school graduation or the equivalent.
Two years of paid work experience as a Police Officer with investigative/detective experience in a California law enforcement agency recognized by P.O.S.T.
Knowledge of selection standards set forth by P.O.S.T. (Peace Officer Standards & Training).
Knowledge of laws pertaining to hiring practices.
Knowledge of report writing.
Knowledge of English grammar and composition.
Knowledge of effective customer service techniques.
Ability to keep accurate records and prepare clear concise reports.
Ability to maintain confidentiality of personal information.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
Ability to use law enforcement telecommunications databases in an appropriate manner.
Ability to demonstrate effective interpersonal skills when acquiring sensitive information from reference sources.
Ability to establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships with City employees, and the public.
Ability to provide effective customer service.
Skill in reading, writing and communicating at an appropriate level.
Skill in using a personal computer and applicable software applications.
Skill in dealing with a variety of culturally sensitive issues.
Possession of a valid Class C driver license.

Nice To Haves

Specialized training in a P.O.S.T. approved Background Investigation School
Notary public commissioned

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive background investigations for prospective sworn safety and civilian applicants for the Police Department.
Obtain and review criminal history records from various agencies, including the FBI, DOJ, DMV, and other relevant sources.
Evaluate applicants' financial history, including credit reports when necessary.
Interview and gather detailed personal information from applicants and their references, utilizing investigative skills to develop additional leads.
Prepare thorough background files and final synopses for hiring approval.
Completes background investigations of potential applicants under consideration for hire within the Police Department and other City Departments.
Reviews applicant financial history and obtains credit report, when necessary.
Interviews and gathers personal information from prospective applicant, applicant's employers, co-workers, neighbors, landlords, family and personal references and develops additional references using investigative techniques.
Writes final synopsis regarding applicant and prepares complete background file for hiring approval by the Chief of Police or designee.
Performs other related duties, as assigned.