Background Investigator
Location: Landover, MD
Job Number: 9657
Salary: $27,000
Closing Date: August 11, 2025
The incumbent performs professional level investigative and administrative tasks in order to conduct background investigations on applicants seeking civilian positions in the Office of Homeland Security (OHS) in accordance with the Office of Human Resources Management/public safety policies and procedures. The incumbent performs duties and responsibilities under the general supervision of the Office of Human Resources Management, Background and Compliance (BAC} Case Manager or his/her designee. Work performance is evaluated by the Supervisor through conferences, completed reports, projects and progress toward meeting the Department's hiring goals and objectives. The incumbent treats all work and personnel related matters as strictly confidential. Confidential information may not be discussed with other County employees including individuals in the OHS except for work related reasons, under the terms and conditions of the Maryland Public Information Act. Uses a computer in accordance with standard operating procedures to facilitate completion of divisional / departmental goals and objectives. Maintains the confidentiality and integrity of OHS and ensures that all assignments are performed with due diligence and accuracy.
About the Agency
The Office of Homeland Security (OHS) was developed as a result of legislation passed in 2003. This new agency incorporated critical emergency response entities that were previously part of other agencies.
Public Safety Communications (PSC), which included all County 9-1-1, emergency dispatch and radio system support, had been part of the Office of Information Technology and Communications (OITC). The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) was a division of the Fire/EMS Department. OEM and PSC were combined under the leadership of the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Public Safety/Director of Homeland Security, forming the Office of Homeland Security. The legislation and resulting changes to the Charter, spelled out the separate and distinct missions assigned to OEM and PSC.
Examples of Work
- Conducts fact-finding interviews/conferences with people using interpersonal communication and investigative skills.
- Gathers/obtains relevant information and data through approved agency techniques/procedures as part of the background investigation process.
- Screens/responds to incoming phone calls in order to gather background investigation information, provide assistance to caller, and refer calls to other staff/ agencies.
- Liaison with the OHRM, BAC; assists with community outreach events for OHS.
- Reviews/research/evaluates documentation contained in the applicant case files in order to expedite the completion of cases.
- Conducts final reviews on case file documents to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Completes divisional work assignments/caseload.
- Operates computers in order to:
- Enter, update, and maintain case file data.
- Generate reports and documents.
- Facilitate communication.
- Make themself available by an issued cellular telephone.
- Participate in training activities designed to improve and enhance professional knowledge, skills, and abilities.
