Background Specialist

Hernando County Sheriff's Office • Brooksville, FL

1d

About The Position

The Background Specialist performs technical and confidential work supporting the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office recruiting and pre-employment background investigation process. Under the direction of the Staffing & Background Supervisor, the position screens applicants, conducts preliminary checks, verifies applicant information, and receives, reviews, and maintains detailed investigation files in accordance with established standards and procedures. Work is evaluated through observation, reports, and ongoing interaction with supervisory staff.

The role supports hiring for both sworn and non-sworn positions and requires sound judgment, discretion, and confidentiality when handling sensitive information. It also supports recruiting activities, the agency’s applicant-tracking and background-investigation systems, and the training of background investigators.

Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Three years of clerical or investigation work experience.
• Skills in using modern office equipment, including a telephone, calculator, computer, word processor, and printer.
• Proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing English, including proper spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Knowledge of modern office practices, procedures, and policies.
• Knowledge of HR concepts, principles, and practices.
• Ability to understand general concepts and follow complex oral and written instructions.
• Ability to separate and present clear, concise concepts.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the public.
• Ability to maintain confidential records.
• Ability to work independently or with limited supervision.
• Intermediate or advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, such as Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Ability to sit at a desk and view a display screen for extended periods.
• Ability to access file cabinets to file and retrieve data.
• Ability to carry up to 30 pounds.
• Acceptable eyesight, with or without correction.
• Acceptable hearing, with or without a hearing aid.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in a law enforcement or corrections atmosphere.

Responsibilities

• Prescreen employment applications for minimum qualifications and conduct preliminary background checks to identify automatic disqualifiers before applicants are invited to interview.
• Communicate with applicants, references, prior employers, and other agencies to obtain and verify information.
• Complete background investigations accurately and on time to support agency hiring needs.
• Prepare final reports on completed background investigations for selection and approval.
• Respond to mutual agency requests for information about prior or current candidates and employees.
• Coordinate and participate in local recruiting events, including job fairs, academy visits, and college fairs.
• Oversee the development, compliance, and maintenance of the Applicant Tracking System and background investigation software.
• Provide training and guidance to background investigators on the systems, programs, and processes used for pre-employment background screenings.
• Assist with background investigations for sworn and non-sworn positions.
• Handle sensitive information with sound judgment, discretion, and confidentiality.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED