When it comes to hiring new employees, employers have a responsibility to ensure that candidates meet the standards of trustworthiness and safety—especially in industries involving vulnerable populations or sensitive data. This is where Level 2 background screening becomes an essential tool in the recruitment process.
What Is Level 2 Background Screening?
Level 2 background screening is a more comprehensive and in-depth background check, typically required for positions of trust or authority. Unlike Level 1 screening, which often includes basic name-based checks through local and state databases, Level 2 screening involves fingerprint-based background checks and national criminal history records.
This screening is designed to uncover more serious offenses and provide a higher level of scrutiny. It’s especially mandated in states like Florida for individuals working with children, the elderly, or persons with disabilities. Employers in healthcare, education, finance, and government agencies often rely on this advanced form of background screening to make informed hiring decisions.
Key Components of a Level 2 Background Check
A typical Level 2 background screening includes:
- Fingerprinting: Required for accessing FBI and national criminal databases.
- National criminal history check: Includes access to databases that show arrests, convictions, and incarcerations across state lines.
- Sex offender registry check: Ensures the candidate is not listed as a registered sex offender.
- Employment verification: Confirms previous job titles, responsibilities, and dates of employment.
- Education verification: Validates academic degrees or certifications.
- Professional license check: Ensures the candidate holds valid and active licenses when required.
Why Employers Should Use Level 2 Background Screening
In a competitive job market, trust and security are key. Employers who use Level 2 background screening demonstrate due diligence in protecting their business, employees, and clients. Here’s why it’s essential:
Enhanced safety: Especially important in roles that involve caregiving, finance, or access to personal data.
Legal compliance: In certain states or industries, such screenings are legally required.
Risk mitigation: Helps avoid negligent hiring claims by thoroughly vetting candidates.
Better hiring decisions: Ensures candidates are truthful about their background and qualifications.
Who Needs Level 2 Screening?
Not every job role requires this advanced level of background screening, but it’s crucial for:
- Childcare and eldercare professionals
- Healthcare providers and nursing home staff
- School employees and volunteers
- Security guards and law enforcement personnel
- Financial institution employees handling sensitive information
The Screening Process
Employers or agencies typically initiate the process through an authorized screening provider. The candidate will be required to submit fingerprints and sign consent forms. The collected data is then checked against local, state, and federal databases, and a detailed report is provided to the employer.
Depending on the jurisdiction, the process can take from a few days to several weeks. Employers must ensure they follow all applicable laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), which governs how background checks should be conducted and reported.
Final Thoughts
Level 2 background screening plays a vital role in maintaining safety, compliance, and integrity within organizations. It provides employers with the critical insights needed to make sound hiring decisions. While it might seem extensive, the added layer of security ensures that only qualified and trustworthy individuals are placed in positions of responsibility.
In today’s workplace, where one wrong hire can impact business operations and reputation, investing in a thorough background screening process is not just smart—it’s essential.
