How to Be Police Background Investigator - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 30, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The role of a Police Background Investigator is an important one in the criminal justice system. This position is responsible for conducting thorough background investigations into potential police officers and other law enforcement personnel. Such investigations often involve verifying education and employment records, character references, and other related information.

By doing so, it helps to ensure that those who are hired into law enforcement positions have the right qualifications and are fit to serve the public. This can help to prevent bad hires that could have a negative impact on the community, while also helping to protect the integrity of the police force. having qualified personnel in these positions can make a positive impact on the safety and security of a community.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelors Degree. Police background investigators typically need to have at least a four-year degree in a field such as criminal justice or criminology. Those interested in police investigation careers also should take classes related to law enforcement, psychology and sociology.
Complete Police Academy Training. Before individuals can become police background investigators, they must complete the police academy. During the academy, candidates learn the basics of law enforcement, firearms training and even self-defense.
Gain Relevant Experience. To become a police background investigator, individuals must have experience in police work or an investigative role. They may gain experience by working as a police officer or working in a detective agency.
Take an Examination. To become a police background investigator, applicants often must pass a civil service exam that tests their knowledge of laws and regulations.
Obtain Certification. Many states require police background investigators to obtain professional certification. Candidates can receive certification through organizations such as the National Association of Professional Background Screeners or the Council on Licensure, Enforcement and Regulation.

Becoming a successful background investigator requires a variety of skills and capabilities. An aptitude for detail is essential, as investigators must be able to accurately collect, analyze and interpret data from a variety of sources. Good communication skills are also important since investigators often interact with individuals from a variety of backgrounds.

Cultural sensitivity is essential to understand the motivations and needs of those interviewed. Working knowledge of criminal justice systems and investigative techniques is also essential, as is a commitment to ethical practices. Finally, investigators must possess strong research skills to be able to access public records and databases in order to obtain the relevant information needed to complete an investigation.

All of these skills and capabilities are necessary to become a successful background investigator.

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Job Description

Collect and analyze data on criminal backgrounds of individuals
Conduct in-depth interviews with individuals and employers
Verify accuracy of data collected from sources
Make recommendations based on investigation findings
Prepare detailed reports on findings
Liaise with other law enforcement agencies for assistance in investigations
Prepare case files and other court documents
Present evidence in court proceedings
Maintain accurate records of all investigations
Identify areas for improvement in investigative techniques

Skills and Competencies to Have

Investigative Techniques
Interviewing and Interrogation
Knowledge of Laws and Regulations
Surveillance
Report Writing
Documentation and Record Keeping
Evidence Collection and Preservation
Computer Proficiency
Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills
Discretion and Professionalism
Knowledge of Court Procedures
Budget Management
Presentation Skills
Conflict Resolution

One of the most important skills for a background investigator is strong analytical thinking. The ability to analyze data, interpret complex information, and draw logical conclusions quickly is key in this role. Background investigators must be able to assess the credibility of witnesses, review investigative notes and evidence, and make decisions based on their findings.

Their findings must be accurate and their decisions must be fair, as they are responsible for ensuring the safety of their clients. Furthermore, they must be able to communicate effectively with witnesses and other parties involved in the investigation. This requires excellent interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to remain unbiased when evaluating facts.

In addition to these skills, background investigators must also possess a strong work ethic and the ability to work under pressure. Without these skills, background investigators may be unable to reach accurate and timely conclusions, leading to potential errors in their investigations.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have conducting background investigations?
How would you rate your investigative interviewing and communication skills?
What strategies do you use to build rapport with witnesses and other involved parties?
How do you ensure accuracy and objectivity in your investigations?
How do you go about gathering information from various sources?
What techniques do you use to assess the credibility of evidence and information?
How do you ensure that all relevant evidence is collected and reviewed?
What are your methods for verifying or disproving claims or alibis?
What systems or databases do you use to manage background investigations?
How do you prioritize tasks and manage multiple concurrent investigations?

Common Tools in Industry

Database Management System. Database Management System (DBMS) is a software application that helps to store, organize, and manage data. (e. g. Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server)
Criminal Record Search. A criminal record search is used to identify any past criminal activity or convictions. (e. g. LexisNexis, Accurint)
Interviewing Techniques. Interviewing techniques are used to question individuals to gain background information relevant to the investigation. (e. g. Structured Interviews, Open-ended Interviews)
Surveillance Equipment. Surveillance equipment is used to monitor people, places, or activities for the purpose of gathering evidence. (e. g. Cameras, Audio Devices)
Research Resources. Research resources are used to gather data and information related to an investigation. (e. g. Online Databases, Newspapers)

Professional Organizations to Know

International Association of Chiefs of Police
National Association of School Resource Officers
Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association
International Police Association
Major Cities Chiefs Association
National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives
International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators
National Tactical Officers Association
National Sheriffs' Association
International Criminal Investigative Analysis Fellowship

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Common Important Terms

Criminal Record. A criminal record is a form of public record that lists a persons past criminal convictions, arrests, and other legal proceedings.
Fingerprint Analysis. Fingerprint analysis is the practice of analyzing fingerprints to determine the identity of an individual and compare different prints.
Background Check. A background check is the process of verifying information about a person's criminal, financial, employment, and personal history.
Investigative Interview. An investigative interview is a structured conversation between a police background investigator and a subject of an investigation, conducted to gain more information about a possible crime or incident.
Search Warrant. A search warrant is a legal document issued by a judge that authorizes law enforcement officers to search for and seize evidence related to a crime.
Subpoena. A subpoena is a court order that requires an individual to appear in court or to provide certain documents or information in connection with a legal proceeding.
Surveillance. Surveillance is the monitoring of activities of an individual, group, or organization by observation, listening, or other means.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Police Background Investigator?

The primary role of a Police Background Investigator is to conduct thorough background checks on potential candidates for law enforcement positions.

What qualifications are required to become a Police Background Investigator?

Qualifications to become a Police Background Investigator typically include a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, law enforcement or a related field, plus several years of relevant experience in law enforcement or investigations.

How long does the background investigation process typically take?

The length of the background investigation process can vary based on the complexity of the case, but typically it takes anywhere from four to eight weeks.

What kinds of information is typically collected during a Police Background Investigation?

During a Police Background Investigation, investigators typically collect information such as criminal records, credit history, employment records, educational records and references from past employers.

What is the purpose of a Police Background Investigation?

The purpose of a Police Background Investigation is to assess the suitability of a potential candidate for law enforcement positions by evaluating their past behavior and character.