Licensing Specialist

NHBP•Battle Creek, MI

14h•Onsite

About The Position

The Licensing Specialist works under the general direction of the Licensing Manager to plan, coordinate, and conduct background investigations and licensing functions. Duties include reviewing applications, conducting criminal background checks, submitting fingerprints, conducting initial and follow-up interviews, communicating with Tribal, Federal, State, and local agencies, researching and documenting information, and preparing suitability determinations. The position handles licensing investigations for applicants and renewals across employees, vendors, labor organizations, and other covered groups, while ensuring compliance with applicable Tribal and gaming laws, regulations, policies, and confidentiality requirements. The role is primarily office-based and supports NHBP employees and tribal community members. It may involve emotionally stressful situations, politics, and family conflicts, and requires travel to meetings and tribal facilities. The position is security sensitive and information obtained must be protected under IHS/HIPAA rules and regulations. Tribal preference applies in accordance with the NHBP Indian Preference in Employment Code.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Two or more years of office administration experience or related work.
One or more years of experience in employee or vendor background investigations, licensing suitability determinations, or closely related work.
Experience conducting fact-finding interviews.
Willingness to initiate contact with new people, including conducting applicant interviews, reference checks, and fact-finding.
Self-direction and ability to complete tasks with no or minimal supervision.
Ability to recognize regulatory terminology and interpret and apply relevant Tribal, Federal, State, local, and other laws, regulations, and codes.
Ability to use discretion and problem-solving methodologies in conflict management and other applicable situations.
Administrative, organizational, and communication skills.
Ability to use personal computers, Microsoft Office, Adobe Pro, and general office equipment.
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Ability to preserve and protect sensitive information and maintain strict confidentiality.
Successfully pass a background check and drug screening.
Meet the suitability standards necessary to obtain and maintain a Gaming License.
Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
Ability to facilitate and manage discussions among parties in high-tension or conflict situations to seek common understanding and resolution.
Ability to read and interpret laws, regulations, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals; write routine reports and correspondence; and speak effectively before groups of employees at all organizational levels.
Basic ability to apply fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
Ability to meet the position's physical requirements, including occasional lifting or moving of up to 25 pounds.
Training may be substituted for experience contingent upon successful post-training application of the newly acquired skill set.

Nice To Haves

Native American Gaming Industry experience.
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in Business, Criminal Justice, and/or Law.
Prior experience in conflict resolution and/or facilitative dispute resolution processes.

Responsibilities

Conduct licensing investigations for new applicants and renewals, including employees, non-gaming vendors, certified preference businesses, labor organizations, gaming vendors, and technicians.
Comply with Tribal Codes and Regulations, the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, National Indian Gaming Commission Regulations, and the Gaming Compact regarding background investigations and licensing processes.
Implement and comply with policies, procedures, and practices for accomplishing program objectives and ensuring confidentiality.
Meet with applicants regarding criminal background or other application concerns and bring unresolved or unfavorable background information to management's attention.
Participate in appeal hearings as needed and prepare and present exhibits documenting license suspensions, denials, or revocations.
Prepare investigative reports for review and approval by the Licensing Manager and revise forms necessary for licensing procedures.
Maintain databases covering Gaming Commission and casino employees, temporary employees, work permits, vendors and technicians, labor organizations, certified preference businesses, and bus companies.
Assist with training new employees on background investigations, licensing processes, and relevant laws, rules, and regulations as needed.
Participate in developing Gaming Commission objectives.
Attend training and travel as required.
Perform other duties as assigned.