Background Investigator-Civilian (Finance)

ORGANIZATIONAL SUMMARY:

The University of South Florida Police Department (USFPD) is a full service law enforcement agency dedicated to providing a safe environment for and in partnership with the community, while remaining committed to assisting with personal and professional development of department members, and to the principle of being community minded and service driven.

USFPD is organized into various bureaus, divisions, sections, squads, and units. The department is led by a command staff comprised of sworn and non-sworn members of the rank of lieutenant and higher, a communications and records manager, all of whom report to the assistant chief of police through an established chain-of-command. The Operations Bureau is commanded by a captain who oversees the Patrol Section which is commanded by a lieutenant. The Patrol Division is further broken down into four patrol squads and one Community Service Officer (CSO) squad which is supervised by two non-sworn supervisors.

The Special Operations Division is commanded by a captain who oversees Special Operations/Events and Criminal Investigations Sections; both of which are led by a sergeant. The Administration Bureau is also commanded by a captain who oversees the Support Services and Communications & Records Divisions. Support Services is led by a sergeant and includes the Professional Standards and Information Technology Sections. The accreditation, training and background investigation units fall within the Professional Standards Section which is managed by a sergeant. The Communications & Records Division reports to a non-sworn manager.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Background Investigator is responsible for conducting comprehensive background investigations to assess the qualifications, integrity, and suitability of prospective employees, including sworn officers and designated civilian personnel, for the University Police Department. This position plays a critical role in ensuring that all applicants meet department standards, university policies, and legal requirements for employment in law enforcement and other designated roles.

Key duties include recruiting qualified candidates for LEO and LEO trainee positions, attending recruitment events to attract potential applicants, reviewing applications, verifying personal and professional history, conducting interviews, gathering records, and preparing detailed investigative reports. Additionally, the investigator will coordinate the enrollment process for selected LEO Trainee candidates into the Police Academy and/or EQT if needed. Strong analytical, communication, and investigative skills are essential.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

This position must meet the requirements of Chapter 943, Florida Statutes.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Prior experience in law enforcement investigations, background investigations, or a related field is preferred. Experience with Guardian Alliance Technologies or similar software and 3-5 years preferred.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS:

This position requires a Level 2 Criminal History Background Check and a Drug Screen.The University of South Florida is a high-impact global research university dedicated to student success. Over the past 10 years, no other public university in the country has risen faster in U.S. News and World Report's national university rankings than USF. Serving more than 50,000 students on campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Sarasota-Manatee, USF is designated as a Preeminent State Research University by the Florida Board of Governors, placing it in the most elite category among the state's 12 public universities. USF is a member of the American Athletic Conference.
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Working at USF
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With more than 16,000 employees at USF, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay region. At USF you will find opportunities to excel in a rich academic environment that fosters the development and advancement of our employees. We believe in creating a talented, engaged and driven workforce through on-going development and career opportunities. We also offer a first class benefit package that includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, tuition program and generous leave programs and more.
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To learn more about working at USF please visit: Work Here. Learn Here. Grow Here .RESPONSIBILITIES:

Conduct in-depth background investigations on sworn and non-sworn applicants, including reviewing applications, verifying credentials, and evaluating character and fitness for duty (PAT).

Interview LEO and LEO Trainee applicants, previous employers, colleagues, neighbors, and personal references to gather relevant information.

Obtain and analyze records such as employment history, criminal background checks, credit reports, military service records, and educational transcripts. Conduct fingerprint checks and review results for disqualifying factors.

Prepare comprehensive and well-documented investigative reports summarizing findings for hiring decisions. Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information and ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and department policies.

Collaborate with hiring officials, HR personnel, and command staff to provide recommendations based on investigative findings.

Performs other duties as assigned.

SPECIAL SKILLS:

• Ability to work independently, manage multiple investigations simultaneously, and meet deadlines.
• Strong knowledge of investigative techniques, interviewing methods, and relevant laws.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for conducting interviews and drafting detailed reports.
• High level of integrity, discretion, and ability to handle sensitive information appropriately.
• Proficiency with law enforcement databases, record management systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.