Firearms Background Specialist 2 (Legal Assistant 2)

Begin a new and challenging career as a Firearms Background Specialist 2! The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) is seeking people who enjoy collecting pertinent information and using it to make well-informed decisions. In this position, you will be responsible for gathering and assessing relevant information to determine whether an individual should be granted or denied the ability to purchase a firearm or obtain a firearm license. Apply today to help the PSP continue to protect the citizens of Pennsylvania!

In this position, your main responsibility will be operating the Pennsylvania Instant Check System (PICS). You will be required to make independent decisions regarding the approval or disapproval of firearm purchases or license to carry applications. Additionally, you will be responsible for conducting PICS Background Check Requests for Evidence Returns. Your role will involve verifying the identity of applicants through criminal history records, protection from abuse orders, and mental health records. You can expect to determine if an applicant is wanted based on the information provided. In cases where an applicant is wanted, you will follow specific procedures for apprehension, including verifying the warrant and coordinating with local law enforcement. Finally, you will need to interpret current and former state and federal laws to make determinations on approval or disapproval of purchase or license to carry applications.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours consist of rotating shifts, including holidays and weekends.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• One year as a Legal Assistant 1 (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or
• Four years of responsible clerical, investigative or enforcement work including one year of legal clerical support experience; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

Additional Requirements:

• You must have the ability to obtain and maintain an active Commonwealth Law Enforcement Assistance Network (CLEAN) certification issued by the Pennsylvania State Police within the probationary period and maintain the same for the duration of employment in this job.
• You must be willing to work onsite full-time. Teleworking is not an option as part of this position's work schedule.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

• You must pass criminal history and background investigations if you do not have a current Pennsylvania State Police background on file.
• You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.
• This job title has been identified as performing critical duties. Prior to placement in this job title, the selected candidate regardless of their current job, must submit a Report of Medications for screening by the Pennsylvania State Police Medical Officer.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date. 

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.