Criminal and Federal Background Checks

Criminal Background Checks

All selected interns are subject to a criminal background check. The background check is part of the selection process and must be completed before the intern begins their service. The background check process may take up to 2 or more weeks, please plan accordingly as it can impact when your intern starts their position. The process and forms used for the background checks are in accordance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act. All information pertaining to the process will be kept confidential. It is often best during the interview process to make the applicant aware of this requirement. Past history of crimes against youth or other vulnerable populations, violent crimes, or crimes of moral turpitude may disqualify the applicant for an internship. All information will be kept confidential and shared with SCA program supervisory staff in the event of an unfavorable record.  An email will be sent to the intern directly from customer service at HRPlus once SCA is notified of their selection.
Please note: this background check is separate from and may not qualify for background checks or security clearance as required by your Agency. 

Federal Background Checks (HSPD-12)

Federal agencies have been directed by the Department of Homeland Security to conduct background investigations for employees.  Any employee, VIP or SCA intern serving more than 180 days, or serving less than 180 days but having access to a government computer must have a favorable background investigation completed prior to their Entry on Duty.  This background investigation includes taking a fingerprint for the FBI.  The background investigation process is a federally-initiated process and SCA cannot perform a background check in lieu of the federal investigation. 

If your intern meets the criteria above, please be sure to allow time for the background investigation process to be completed; otherwise, the intern may not be able to start their position as scheduled.