Background Investigation Services

The City of Carlsbad Police Department is seeking proposals for pre-employment background investigation services for both civilian and sworn applicants, with an anticipated volume of approximately 60 investigations per year. The selected contractor will be responsible for conducting thorough investigations using the department's designated system, producing factual and impartial narrative reports that adhere to the Bias Assessment Framework and POST Background Investigation Dimensions. All services must comply with California law and specific POST regulations, including Commission Regulation 1953 for peace officers and Commission Regulation 1959 for public safety dispatchers. The contract is structured for an initial three-year term, with the possibility of two additional one-year extensions. Award selection will be based on a best value evaluation conducted by a selection committee using a point rating system. To qualify, the firm must certify that its investigators have completed a California POST Background Investigator Course, passed a criminal background check, and possess a valid California driver's license. The contractor is required to maintain significant insurance coverages, including $2,000,000 for Commercial General Liability and Automobile Liability, and $1,000,000 for Professional Liability. Payment terms are Net 30, and the City reserves the right to withhold a 10% retention until services are accepted. Proposals must be submitted exclusively via PlanetBids by December 4, 2026.