Under the immediate supervision of the Human Resources Director, the Human Resources Specialist – Adjudicator/Back ground check accomplishes human resource related responsibilities such as compliance of the accrediting agency, supporting recruitment/retention activities, training, orientation, and conducts fingerprinting and electronically transmit fingerprinting for processing; ensures all fingerprinting and background checks are completed for employees/new hires in a timely manner; forwards copies of completed background checks to employee with appropriate notice to provide the employee an opportunity to verify background checks information; ensure compliance with background check policies and procedures. The Human Resources Specialist – Adjudicator / Background check will perform the duties and responsibilities of the position while observing rules and regulations related to HIPAA, Privacy Act, and other associated laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.

The list of duties and responsibilities is illustrative only of the tasks performed by this position and is not all-inclusive.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Responsible for the review and adjudication of completed background investigations; conducts investigations to determine suitability for employment or continued employment for employees, applicants, volunteers, interns and internal transfers, promotion, and reclassification of employees being considered for appointment to a sensitive position; reviews and recommends adjudicative action on investigation.
• Compiles information, such as educational verification, criminal history from the Federal, State, County, Tribal, and various sources and data banks.
• Evaluates evidence for credibility, relevancy and sufficiency; detects discrepancies in the information reviewed; distinguishes between relevant and irrelevant information and evidence.
• Conducts telephone interviews of applicants to elicit information and to afford the applicant the opportunity to appeal any adverse employment decision and/or give additional information that may mitigate any unfavorable circumstances or findings.
• Interprets and explains background check and related human resources policies and procedures; provides technical assistance regarding background check procedures and policies.
• Develops and maintains an automated tracking system for background investigations and adjudication; ensures confidentiality and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Review and verify for completeness and accuracy of all documents, (i.e. application for fingerprinting clearance, declaration form and consent, supplementary data forms, etc.) authorizing background checks, fingerprinting and adjudication for employees, volunteers, interns, and applicants for employment.
• Provide written and verbal update to immediate supervisor on status of various projects, barriers and accomplishments; participate in departmental meetings.
• Provide technical assistance and guidance to supervisors regarding required documents, background check, suitability assessment and fingerprinting processes, and applicable laws, policies and procedures.
• Build, promote and foster a positive relationship between employees and SMH.
• Implement strategies to improve workplace communications.

• Verify credentials and conduct employment reference checks.
• Assist with developing and revising HR policies and procedures, and training and advising staff on new policies and procedures.
• Assist with onboarding of staff, agency personnel and volunteer/student workers.

• Present self with professionalism and establish excellent communication of required duties.
• Attend in-service and education programs as required.
• Maintain strict confidentiality at all times.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Abilities, Skills, and Certifications:

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to use Microsoft computer software program (i.e., Access, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
• Knowledge of laws, policies and procedures pertaining to background checks, adjudication, and fingerprinting.
• Ability to foster effective working relationships within a team environment.
• Ability to analyze complex information, and to define and solve problems.
• Ability to train and orientate individually and in large group settings.
• Able to work under pressure and meeting deadlines.
• Excellent organizational skills
• Highly self-motivated individual.
• Report preparation and strong presentation skills.
• Counseling/advising/listening/negotiation skills.
• Able to fluently speak the Navajo Language or familiar with the Navajo way of life.
• Knowledge of federal, state and local employment practices.

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly is required to sit; use hands to feel and reach; and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to walk. The employee occasionally is required to stand; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Work Environment:

Work is generally performed in an office with moderate noise level. Extended hours and irregular shifts may be required.