At FIU, we conduct thorough background investigations for prospective employees to ensure safety, security, and compliance with job-related requirements, as mandated by Florida Statute Section 110.1127.
The Department of Talent Acquisition and Management oversees all background checks, including:
- Standard Pre-employment Checks
- Expanded Background Checks
- Recurring Checks
Types of Background Checks
- Standard Background Check
- Meets Level I criminal screening standards as defined by Florida Statutes.
- Includes identity verification, education verification, work history, and reference checks, national sex offender, state and county checks.
- Expanded Background Check
- Required for positions of special trust, particularly those with access to sensitive data, finances, or vulnerable populations.
- Meets Level II criminal screening standards as outlined by Florida Statutes.
Positions of special trust requiring heightened expanded background checks due to the responsibilities and access they entail. These include:
- Employees handling/managing cash, gift cards, debit/credit cards, or other equivalents
IT positions
- Executive roles (e.g., Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer, Director of Tax Compliance)
- Employees managing major investments and donor portfolios
- Employees working with Title IV Funds
Fingerprinting Requirement
For certain positions, fingerprinting is mandatory in conjunction with an expanded background check in accordance with Chapters 110.1127, 435, 408.89, and 943.0542. These positions include, but are not limited to:
- Employees working with K-12 schools as required by state law (MDCPS/bcps fingerprinting).
- Athletics department staff traveling with student teams.
- Employees working with or residing with minors and/or vulnerable persons (e.g., Housing and Residential Life staff, CCF, CCLC, FIU embrace).
- Employees in afterschool and summer camp programs (DCF fingerprinting).
- Employees with unrestricted access to a Great Grand Master key
- Employees working in one of FIU’s museums
Driving Duties
A Motor vehicle check is conducted when:
- Finalist or employees with driving responsibilities using university vehicles and Golf carts
- When there is a report or observation indicating that a university employee is not operating a university vehicle safely.
- Employees should notify the Division of Human Resources of any changes to their driver’s license status
Periodic Re-screening
To maintain a safe and compliant environment, certain background checks are periodically repeated:
- Expanded Background Checks are renewed every five years for certain employees.
- Sanctions screenings are conducted annually for employees with university credit cards or merchant accounts.
- MVR checks are repeated every two years or as needed for safety concerns.
- Licensure checks are the responsibility of the respective business unit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are background checks valid for?
For those who may be in contact with minors and/or in vulnerable positions, a background check must be completed every 5 years. For those who are driving motor vehicles, a background check must be completed every 2 years.
How do I know what background check I need to complete?
Once you reach this stage in the hiring process, you will receive an email from a team member in Talent Acquisition and Management with instructions on what needs to be completed and how to go about completing it.
How long does the background check process take?
The length of time for a background check to be completed varies depending on the complexity of the check and the responsiveness of the vendors and references. Typically, background checks can take anywhere from 2-5 days for results to be returned.
If I have already been employed by the university in the past, do I still need to complete a background check upon return?
If you have been separated from the university for more than 365 days or more, a new background check is required.
Are there any fees associated with the background check process?
The cost of the background check is typically covered by FIU, but there may be some exceptions depending on the type of check required for your specific position. If applicable, you will be informed of any costs before proceeding.
Do I need to disclose anything about my criminal history?
Yes, if you have any criminal history, it’s important to disclose it accurately during the application process. FIU conducts criminal background checks as part of the pre-employment process, and failure to disclose relevant information may affect your employment eligibility.
How do I know if my position requires an expanded background check?
Positions that involve access to sensitive information, financial resources, or vulnerable populations typically require an expanded background check. You will be informed by the Department of Talent Acquisition and Management if an expanded check is needed for your role.
Can I request a copy of my background check report?
Yes, if you would like to review the results of your background check, you can request a copy through the authorized background check vendor.
How do I submit the required information for my background check?
After accepting a conditional offer through the FIU HRIS Recruitment System, you will receive instructions on how to submit the necessary personal and professional information to FIU and the authorized background check vendor. This may include providing identification, educational and employment history, and consent for the background check to be conducted.
Will my background check results be shared with anyone else?
Your background check results are confidential and will only be shared with the relevant FIU departments and personnel involved in the hiring process. Your results will not be shared with unauthorized individuals unless required by law.
Can I be hired if I have a criminal history?
Having a criminal history does not automatically disqualify you from employment at FIU. Each case is reviewed on an individual basis, taking into account the nature of the offense, how long ago it occurred, and how it relates to the position for which you are being considered.
What if I need to provide fingerprinting for my background check?
If fingerprinting is required for your position, you will be provided with instructions for our third-party vendor. There are designated locations throughout Florida and, by extension, the United States where you can complete the fingerprinting process. Depending on the type of background check, you may be directed to specific agencies (such as MDCPS, DCF, or others).
Do I need to inform FIU about a criminal conviction after I am hired?
Yes, if you are hired and later convicted of a crime that may impact your job or your position at FIU, you are required to inform your supervisor or the Department of Talent Acquisition and Management. FIU will then assess whether the conviction affects your ability to continue in your role.
Do I need an SSN to complete a background check?
No, an SSN is not required for international candidates to complete a background check but is needed for the I-9 form to start working. Volunteers, interns, and other persons of interest do not need an SSN for a background check, except for those undergoing fingerprinting for special trust positions.