Specialist Entry Level onsite in Des Plaines, IL

Background Check Specialist Entry Level onsite in Des Plaines, IL

Maryville Academy is seeking a Background Check Specialist to manage and oversee the background screening process for all employees, volunteers, interns, and contracted service providers working with children in programs funded by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR). This vital role ensures full compliance with federal, state, and ORR regulations to uphold the highest standards of safety and child welfare.

• Collect, review, and process required documentation for:
  • State child abuse/neglect registry checks
  • Sex offender registry searches
  • Local law enforcement checks
  • SACWIS and other relevant databases
• Guide applicants through each step of the background check process.
• Submit documentation to appropriate agencies in a timely, accurate manner.
• Coordinate out-of-state checks and ongoing five‑year re‑checks.

• Ensure all screenings align with ORR, state, and federal compliance standards.
• Maintain secure, confidential background check records.
• Utilize ORR’s UAC Portal and internal HR databases for data entry and tracking.
• Conduct monthly audits of background check files for accuracy.

• Provide status updates to HR, program leadership, and ORR representatives.
• Resolve issues related to missing or inconsistent documentation.
• Alert appropriate staff to any adverse findings.
• Support applicants with technical guidance on fingerprinting and submissions.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum 3 years of relevant work experience in HR, compliance, or a related field.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and/or Smartsheet.
• Excellent organizational and record‑keeping abilities.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality with sensitive information.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel locally.

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of ORR background check regulations and federal child welfare policies.
• Familiarity with systems such as ORR’s UAC Portal, SACWIS, and E‑Verify
  .
• Experience with fingerprinting and child abuse/neglect registry checks.

• Must meet ORR employment eligibility and pass required background checks.
• Flexibility to travel to other Maryville program sites as needed.
• Availability for flexible hours to meet critical deadlines.

Regular sitting, standing, bending, and walking. Ability to lift/move items over 20 pounds. Adequate vision, hearing, and learning capabilities required. Primary work conducted in administrative office settings. May include interaction with ORR and internal staff. Flexibility to work occasional evenings, weekends, or holidays.

At Maryville, we are committed to protecting and empowering the most vulnerable populations. You'll be part of a compassionate, mission‑driven team working to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and families every day.