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Background Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NYC Health Hospitals

Background Coordinator

New York, NY · On-site

$62K - $70K/yr

Assists Onboarding Specialist with the review of Section 1 of Form I-9 to ensure completed ... Reviews all DOI background documents (Stop Credit Discrimination in Employment Act (SCDEA) Form ...

Data Facts

Background Screening Processor

Cordova, TN · On-site

Each Background Processor will be trained on Data Facts procedures for processing all available ... Being cross-trained on the other services, will allow specialists to help cover other areas during ...

Data Facts, Inc.

Background Screening Processor

Cordova, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $16/hr

Each Background Processor will be trained on Data Facts procedures for processing all available ... Being cross-trained on the other services, will allow specialists to help cover other areas during ...

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Background Specialist information

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How much do background specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for background specialist in the United States is $19.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a background specialist?

To thrive as a Background Specialist, you need strong attention to detail, investigative skills, and familiarity with legal compliance, often supported by a background in criminal justice or human resources. Proficiency with background check software, databases, and knowledge of FCRA regulations is typically required. Excellent communication, discretion, and analytical thinking are standout soft skills in this position. These skills ensure accurate, lawful vetting processes that protect organizational integrity and support informed hiring decisions.

What is the difference between Background Specialist vs Background Investigator?

AspectBackground SpecialistBackground Investigator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require security clearanceHigh school diploma; security clearance often required
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, administrative tasks, data reviewFieldwork, interviews, on-site investigations
Employer & Industry UsageCorporations, government agencies, staffing firmsGovernment agencies, private security firms, law enforcement

Background Specialists typically handle data review and administrative tasks related to background checks, often working in office environments. Background Investigators conduct field investigations, interviews, and on-site checks, usually in government or security sectors. While both roles require similar credentials and security clearances, their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

What are common challenges faced by background specialists, and how can they be managed?

Background Specialists often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of requests, meeting tight deadlines, and handling sensitive or incomplete information. To address these, strong organizational skills and attention to detail are essential, as is maintaining clear communication with clients or hiring managers to clarify requirements. Staying updated on relevant laws and regulations, such as privacy and data protection, also helps ensure compliance and accuracy. Collaborating closely with other HR and compliance team members can streamline processes and resolve complex cases more efficiently.

What is a background specialist?

Background Specialists are professionals responsible for conducting background checks and investigations on individuals or organizations. Their duties often include verifying employment history, education, criminal records, and other relevant information to ensure accuracy and compliance with legal standards. They typically work for employers, government agencies, or third-party screening companies to help make informed hiring or partnership decisions. Background Specialists must maintain confidentiality, adhere to privacy laws, and deliver thorough, accurate reports. Their work plays a crucial role in risk management and organizational integrity.
More about Background Specialist jobs
What cities are hiring for Background Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Background Specialist job openings:
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Background Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,565 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Background Check Specialist Tier 2

Chicago Public Schools

Chicago, IL • On-site

$44K - $57K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is the third-largest school district in the United States, serving over 330,000 students in 600+ schools and employing nearly 36,000 people, most of them teachers. CPS has set ambitious goals to ensure that every student, in every school and every neighborhood, has access to a world-class learning experience that prepares each for success in college, career, and civic life. In order to fulfill this mission, we make three commitments to our students, their families, and all Chicagoans: academic progress, financial stability, and integrity. Six core values are embedded within these commitments - student-centered, whole child, equity, academic excellence, community partnership, and continuous learning.
The Office of Safety and Security serves as the critical department to partner with school principals and other CPS staff members to ensure that all schools strive towards the goal of establishing a safe environment for our students.
Job Summary:
Reporting to the Director of Safety Services, the Senior Background Check Specialist is charged with supporting the Director in ensuring that CPS Offices are equipped to provide a safe environment for CPS Staff, Students and Families.
The Senior Background Check Specialist will be held accountable for the following responsibilities:
  • Complete pre-screening activity for background checks (DNH, National Sex Offender Database, IL Sex Offender Database and National Violence Against Youth Database and any other as required).
  • Retrieve criminal history information for applicants Criminal History Information Response Process (CHIRP).
  • Redact information from applicant reports as appropriate.
  • Complete daily file decryption and save information to secure network drives.
  • Input database and registry findings into spreadsheets and tracking systems.
  • Review backlogged work to update applicant status changes daily.
  • Initiate applicant background check files (online and physical).
  • Provide applicants with a copy of ISP reports and instructions on how to challenge the information as mandated by state law.
  • Handle confidential information with integrity.
  • Complete analysis and determine preliminary background review.
  • Communicate with the applicant to request additional information needed for further review; including name checks.
  • Retrieve information from and communicate with in-person candidates as needed.
  • Compile information and update files escalated to the Background Check Committee.
  • Answer calls from applicants on the Background Check main phone line.
  • Monitor and respond to messages in the Background Check email inbox.
  • Track DCFS status updates for candidates and request additional DCFS information as required.
  • Update spreadsheets and trackers with preliminary applicant status information.
  • Close out files and send communications to applicants that miss document submission deadlines.
  • Stay current on policies, laws, and guidelines related to background check procedures.

In order to be successful and achieve the above responsibilities, the Senior Background Check Specialist must possess the following qualifications:
Education Required:
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university preferred.

Experience Required:
  • Minimum of two (2) years of professional experience working with employee records and databases.
  • Proficiency with Google applications and Excel is preferred.
  • Customer service or call center experience preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Strong communication skills (Oral/Written/Presentation)
  • Ability to build collaborative relationships with a variety of constituent groups, including external partners, to ensure the entire system operates in the most effective manner possible to support schools and principals
  • Analytical skills to interpret information and documents to guide decision making
  • High standards of support for personnel, ethical behavior, and professionalism; able to maintain objectivity and confidentiality with highly sensitive information

Conditions of Employment
As a condition of employment with the Chicago Public Schools (CPS), employees are required to:
  • Establish/Maintain Chicago Residency - Employees are required to live within the geographic boundaries of the City of Chicago within six months of their CPS hire date and maintain residency throughout their employment with the district. The Chicago residency requirement does not apply to temporary/part-time positions, however, all CPS employees must be residents of Illinois.

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