Assistant Manager - Background Investigations Unit Program Manager I

Introduction

Join the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS) for a rewarding career offering comprehensive benefits including pension plans, paid leave, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth. DPSCS is among Maryland's largest government bodies with about 12,000 staff and a budget exceeding $1 billion, committed to enhancing safety and advancing restorative justice initiatives to aid offender reentry into society.

This role is based in Baltimore City at 6776 Reisterstown Road.

Position Overview

The Assistant Manager will provide managerial leadership and supervise the Background Investigations Unit ensuring thorough background investigations and timely processing of Applications for Certification (AFC) under state regulations and department policies. The role ensures only qualified candidates fill positions of public trust, thereby promoting safety and professionalism.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily operations of the Background Investigations Unit, oversee staff, allocate caseloads, and monitor productivity and workflow.
• Approve finalized background investigations and implement quality control and performance reviews.
• Offer expert guidance on complex or sensitive investigative cases.
• Oversee the complete AFC submission process, ensuring documentation accuracy and compliance with citizenship, training, and medical standards.
• Track AFC processing metrics, address issues, and enforce regulatory adherence.
• Develop and revise standard operating procedures, training content, process maps, and compliance protocols.
• Support strategic planning, resource forecasting, and track unit performance indicators.
• Compile and present reports to executive leadership and relevant stakeholders.
• Assist department-wide hiring, recruitment events, and HR projects as needed.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements: Possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution; at least four years of professional human resources experience encompassing talent acquisition and full recruitment cycles, including two years in supervisory roles. Professional HR management experience in recruitment, selection, classification, salary administration, test development, or generalist roles may substitute up to four years of educational requirements on a year-for-year basis.

Preferred Qualifications: Two years of experience in employment background investigations or security clearances; proficiency in conducting record checks via NCIC, CJIS, MVA, or similar databases; supervision experience in dynamic, multi-location environments.

Selection and Examination Process

Applicants must submit a completed application along with a resume by the stated deadline. The recruitment considers education, training, and related experience. Candidates will be ranked accordingly and placed on an eligible list for at least one year.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance at affordable rates.
• Personal leave starting at six days per year (prorated).
• Annual leave accrual of ten days per year.
• Sick leave accumulation of fifteen days annually.
• Up to sixty days of paid parental leave upon childbirth or adoption.
• At least twelve state holidays per year.
• Participation in a state retirement pension plan.

Additional Information

Applications are encouraged to be submitted online. Paper applications must be received before the closing date. Additional documentation, when required, should be uploaded with the application or emailed referencing the recruitment number. Contact details for assistance with applications are provided.

Diversity and veteran status are valued; candidates with disabilities and bilingual skills are encouraged to apply. The department is committed to equal opportunity employment reflecting the State's diversity.