Background Specialist 2

JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for completing confidential background reviews of applicants, contractors and volunteers under consideration for hire by Houston Independent School District by gathering, compiling and analyzing relevant facts. Performs related work as assigned.

The work schedule for this classification can be assigned as either intermittent or regular.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Researches and conducts background reviews on applicants for the department.
• Assesses data from various databases and information systems to check for inconsistencies related to the applicant's criminal history.
• Provides timely resolution of data accuracy problems or escalation on behalf of customer to appropriate personnel, and provides case status updates to management and end-users.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES CONTINUED

• Analyzes findings and prepares summary reports with appropriate documentation to support recommendations for the applicant.
• Operates and performs fingerprinting equipment for the criminal history investigation.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
   

EDUCATION

High School Diploma or GED. Associate Degree or 60 hours preferred.

WORK EXPERIENCE

1-3 years

SKILL AND/OR REQUIRED LICENSING/CERTIFICATION

Microsoft Office

Office equipment (e.g., computer, copier)

Proficient in computer software programs used in accessing information and preparing reports.

Ability to analyze information and draw valid conclusions.

Proficient report writing techniques in order to prepare clear, accurate and comprehensive reports.

Intermediate knowledge of business English, spelling and grammar.

Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.

Ability to work within deadlines.

Ability to successfully organize, prioritize and perform multiple tasks.

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

No supervisory or direct people management responsibilities. May provide occasional work guidance, technical advice and training to staff.

WORK COMPLEXITY/INDEPENDENT JUDGMENT

Work and tasks are often straightforward, routine, structured and guided by established policies and procedures. Little, if any, independent judgment is required, outside of making basic choices in the selection and application of established methods. The job receives frequent, ongoing supervision.

BUDGET AUTHORITY

No budget development activity is required.

PROBLEM SOLVING

Decisions are made on routine matters affecting few individuals and usually within the confines of the job's own department. Specific job activities and results are typically reviewed closely.  There are limited requirements for developing new ideas or changes in methods, procedures or services.

IMPACT OF DECISIONS

Follows rules and procedures. Decisions can have minimal or no impact to HISD. Errors can be readily detected, usually by the employee, and, if made, would result in minor expense for correction.

COMMUNICATION/INTERACTIONS

Information sharing – gives and receives information such as options, technical direction, instructions and reporting results. Interactions are mostly with customers, own supervisor and coworkers in own and other departments.

CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS

Follows through with customer inquiries, requests and complaints. Forwards difficult and non-routine inquiries or requests to appropriate level for resolution.

WORKING/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Work is normally performed in a typical interior work environment which does not subject the employee to any hazardous or unpleasant elements.

Repetitive motion: Substantial movements of the wrists, hands, fingers, and/or upper body for sustained periods of time, including using extremities to drag, push, pull or grasp.

Sitting: Particularly for sustained periods of time.

Work is normally set to specified shifts.  During times of emergencies, outages and project planned work, employee is expected to be on call and available until the event is addressed. During system conversions, extra effort may be required in order to ensure the roll out of the system is successful.

Ability to carry and/or lift up to 44 pounds.