Background Investigator

Do you have experience in law enforcement or private investigation? Are you looking for an opportunity to serve your community in a meaningful and impactful way? If your answer is “yes,” then consider applying today to be a Background Investigator with the Champaign Police Department. This position is currently authorized for two years from the date of hire.

Responsibilities of Position

Our Background Investigator serves an integral role in hiring members of the Champaign Police Department and other City Departments. They conduct thorough investigations to evaluate potential candidates for sworn and civilian positions within the department and the City. This includes reviewing applicant background packets; collecting information about applicants through in-person, mail, email, virtual, and telephone interviews with applicants, employers, family members, references, etc.; critically reviewing details for omissions, inconsistencies, and areas in need of further clarification; participating in police officer recruitment; and creating and maintaining detailed records and reports. 

The annual starting salary range is $59,781 - $68,055, DOQ, plus an excellent fringe benefits package.  For first consideration, apply by Sunday, July 6, 2025. The position will remain open until it is filled.

The City’s mission is to provide responsive, caring, cost-effective service in partnership with our community. The following values guide our work: Personal Integrity, Responsibility, Respect, Teamwork, and Results. The City of Champaign is committed to promoting a work environment and a community that values and supports diversity and inclusion.

Required Qualifications

•   High school diploma or equivalent.

•   Extensive law enforcement and/or investigative experience within the last ten years.

•   Or an equivalent combination of training and experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

•   Knowledge of investigative methods and techniques.

•   Exceptional oral and written communication skills.

•   Knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and processes regarding background checks for civilian and sworn positions.

•   Availability to travel out of the local area and work nights/weekends, overtime, or alternate hours, as necessary.

•   Current valid state-issued driver’s license and good driving record.

•   Possess or be able to obtain, within the approved timeframe, and maintain L.E.A.D.S. and N.C.I.C. certification.

•   Ability to demonstrate confidentiality and protection of confidential information in compliance with privacy laws and requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

•   An associate or bachelor’s degree with coursework in criminal justice or a related field. 

•   Prior background investigation experience.

•   Prior public sector law enforcement experience.

Drug screening, driving record check, and criminal background investigation will be required.

Salary and Benefits

•   Starting annual salary: $59,781 - $68,055, DOQ.

•   Full-time, on-site, FLSA non-exempt, non-bargaining unit (NBU) position.

•   The City of Champaign offers excellent fringe benefits including:

o   Paid vacation, sick, and personal leave and 11 paid City holidays each year

o   Health, life, dental, and vision insurance

o   Retirement health savings and flexible spending plans

o   Retirement benefits through the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF)

View the Salary Schedule and Non-Bargaining Unit Non-Exempt Full-Time Fringe Benefit Summary at: ChampaignIL.gov/Salaries. View the full Non-Bargaining Unit Employee Handbook at ChampaignIL.gov/hr/jobs/bargaining-units/