Licensing Investigator

Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians•New Buffalo Township, MI

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Director of Licensing and Investigations, the Licensing Investigator conducts full background investigations for the Pokagon Band Gaming Commission on licensing applicants for Four Winds Casinos and prepares investigative reports that document and summarize findings. Completes assigned special projects and administrative duties.

Requirements

Associates’ Degree in Criminal Justice, Business Administration, Gaming Management, or a related field. Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Understanding of Tribal, state, and federal gaming regulations, including licensing requirements, background check processes, and compliance standards.
Knowledge of criminal background checks, financial investigations, and other related methods used in determining an applicant’s or vendor’s qualifications.
Proficient in using investigative tools, public databases, and criminal record systems (e.g., CJIS, state/federal criminal history systems).
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to assess complex information and make sound, unbiased decisions based on findings.
Ability to prepare detailed and accurate investigative reports that document findings, provide recommendations, and meet regulatory standards.
Knowledge of confidentiality standards and practices to ensure the protection of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and other sensitive information during investigations.
Demonstrated ability to apply financial investigation techniques, including financial, business, and accounting principles and practices.
Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to present findings clearly and professionally in reports and during hearings.
Professional interpersonal skills with the ability to conduct interviews and interact effectively with employees, vendors, law enforcement, Tribal leadership, and other stakeholders.
Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and other relevant software for data entry, report generation, and case tracking.
Exceptional attention to detail when reviewing application materials, documents, and conducting investigations to ensure that all information is accurate, complete, and compliant with gaming regulations.
Ability to manage multiple investigations and tasks simultaneously while maintaining attention to deadlines and priorities.
Ability to assess situations objectively and exercise sound judgment in making decisions regarding the suitability of applicants for gaming licenses.
High level of integrity and ethics in conducting investigations and handling sensitive or confidential information.
Commitment to upholding the mission and values of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians Gaming Commission and PBOPI Ethics Code while ensuring fairness and transparency in all investigative processes.
Understanding and respect for the culture and sovereignty of Tribal nations and their unique gaming regulations and promote the goals and philosophies of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians.
Understanding, acceptance, and application of the Tribe’s Seven Grandfather Teachings.
Must adhere to the Commission policy prohibiting Commission employees from gambling or playing at Four Winds Casino or any licensed gaming operation or gaming device under the jurisdiction of the Pokagon Band Gaming Commission.
A valid driver's license and the ability to travel as required.
Must be at least 21 years of age.
Ability to pass background checks, including criminal history and financial background checks.
Submit to and successfully pass drug testing as required by the Commission.
Willingness to travel to all casino locations as part of the investigative process.
Minimum of 3 years’ experience as a PBGC Licensing Investigator.
Expert knowledge of Commission policies, procedures, rules, and regulations pertaining to gaming within the jurisdiction of the Gaming Commission.
Advanced experience in conducting licensing investigations, including those related to executives, vendors, and sensitive situations.
Comprehensive understanding of Tribal, state, and federal gaming regulations, including licensing requirements, background check processes, and compliance standards with an emphasis on complex investigations and regulatory compliance.
Expertise in advanced investigative techniques used for criminal background checks, financial investigations, and other related methods used in determining an applicant’s or vendor’s qualifications.
Advanced proficiency in using investigative tools, public databases, and criminal record systems (e.g., CJIS, state/federal criminal history systems).
Strong demonstrated ability to apply financial investigation techniques, including financial, business, and accounting principles and practices.
Exceptional organizational skills to ensure that all investigative records, applications, and case files are properly tracked, documented, and securely stored.
Experience in reviewing and updating policies and procedures related to background investigations, ensuring alignment with evolving regulations and best practices.
Advanced proficiency with case management systems or investigative and licensing databases used for tracking and managing ongoing investigations.
Strong proficiency in report writing, with the ability to document findings clearly and concisely for legal or regulatory purposes.
Provide expert guidance on complex investigations, offering expertise and decision-making support.
Minimum of 2 years’ experience as a Tier 2 PBGC Licensing Investigator.
Mentor less experienced Gaming Commission personnel.
Continually seeking new ways to enhance performance, improve results and/ or transform the PBGC.
Understanding and managing own emotions and the impact your behavior has on others to minimize counterproductive actions, instill trust, and inspire others.
Exemplify a strong leadership role in helping others achieve excellent results.
Continually seek to understand and respect others’ perspectives and emotions; encouraging a culture of compassion, empathy and support within and beyond the PBGC.
Recognizes the need for change by being open to new ideas and methods and championing transformational change within the PBGC and beyond.
Consistently puts the interests of the PBGC before self-interests to include making monetary spending recommendations as if they were personal funds.

Responsibilities

Perform detailed background investigations on casino employees, vendors, and other gaming-related personnel at pre-employment stages and at regular intervals (every 1 to 3 years) to ensure ongoing eligibility and compliance with Tribal gaming regulations.
Investigate applicants’ criminal history, financial stability, work history, and other relevant factors to assess suitability for employment or contracting within the gaming environment.
Complete all investigative work and reports with a proficiency, timeliness, and accuracy in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures and Commission standards.
Review licensing application forms, financial records, criminal background checks, employment history, and other documentation to verify the accuracy and completeness of information submitted by employees and vendors.
Confirm that applicants meet the qualifications and standards set by the Gaming Commission Regulations, ensuring compliance with gaming laws and policies.
Conduct interviews with employees, vendors, and their references to obtain further details regarding their qualifications, history, and any other relevant information for the background check process.
Conduct interviews with individuals or entities to clarify discrepancies or obtain additional information necessary to determine the applicant's eligibility.
Collaborate with law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, NIGC, CJIS, other regulatory bodies and organizations to obtain information regarding the criminal history, financial standing, and other background details of applicants.
Draft comprehensive, clear, and objective investigative reports that detail findings, highlight concerns, and provide recommendations regarding the suitability of employees or vendors for continued employment or licensure.
Present investigative reports to the Director of Licensing and Investigations and, when appropriate, to the Executive Director and/or Gaming Commissioners, providing necessary documentation to support decisions on license issuance, renewal, or revocation.
Assist the Director of Licensing and Investigations in preparing supporting documentation for Commission hearings.
Maintain strict Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance of policies and procedures to ensure compliance with CJIS security requirements, maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information, and assist in the identification and mitigation of potential security risks.
Handle all background investigation data, applicant information, and confidential materials in accordance with privacy laws, regulations, and the Pokagon Band Gaming Commission Handbook and confidentiality policies.
Work closely with Four Winds Human Resources to ensure a smooth and accurate background check process for all applicants and existing employees.
Ensure all investigative findings, reports, and background information are accurately entered into the licensing database and other internal Drives as appropriate.
Perform advanced investigations on high-level, high-risk, or sensitive vendors with complex ownership structures.
Lead investigations involving potential conflicts of interest or other irregularities, utilizing specialized investigative techniques and external resources.
Act as the primary point of contact for complex, escalated investigations that require a higher level of expertise or authority.
Assist Commission staff in resolving issues and challenges that arise during investigations, ensuring that regulatory standards are met and that the investigation process remains fair and thorough.
Evaluate and modify investigative policies, procedures, and protocols to streamline operations and increase efficiency across the Commission.
Serve as an expert advisor to the Commission on licensing matters.
Develop and lead training efforts for Licensing Investigators and other Commission staff, providing instruction on investigative methods, regulations, laws, policies, financial principles, or technology related databases and applications used by the Commission.
Develop Licensing and Investigations policies, procedures, and protocols to align with new regulatory developments, technological advances, or organizational needs.
Acts as the licensing database subject matter expert for Licensing and Investigations.
When requested, represent Licensing and Investigations in communications, meetings, or discussions with external stakeholders and regulatory bodies.
Proactively identify areas for improvement and lead initiatives to implement positive changes.
Maintain a positive, calm, and professional demeanor under pressure.
Hold yourself and others to high standards of accountability.
Demonstrate a strong awareness of team dynamics and maintain a pulse on team morale.
Actively listen and support colleagues with empathy and fairness.
Actively mentor and coach others to improve performance, knowledge, and confidence.
Foster a culture of inclusivity and teamwork, working effectively with all team members.
Take initiative in leading or contributing to projects beyond core duties.
Seek opportunities to add value to broader departmental or organizational goals.
Exhibit maturity, humility, and self-awareness in decision-making.
Avoid rushing to provide answers; instead pause, verify, and ensure accuracy to build trust.
Always act in the best interest of the team and the Tribe.
Use “we” instead of “me” and promote a team-first mentality.
Avoid gossip and negative behaviors; instead, support and uplift others in a constructive manner.
Be dependable, flexible, and willing to step into gaps when team needs arise.