Job Title: Licensing Agent I

Department: Pala Gaming Commission

Reports To: Licensing Manager

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Licensing Agent is responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable Tribal Gaming Regulations, the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) requirements, the Pala Tribal-State Compact with the State of California and, internal departmental policies and procedures (all hereinafter referred to as “Regulations”).  This position conducts comprehensive background investigations on licensing applicants and provides supported recommendations regarding suitability for licensure to the Gaming Commission.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensure all assigned duties are performed in strict compliance with applicable

• Complete all assignments accurately and within established timelines.

• Conduct thorough and professional interviews with applicants to assess personal history, character, and financial status.

• Analyze applicant financial records to evaluate stability, integrity, and compliance with regulatory standards.

• Perform detailed background investigations sufficient to support suitability determinations for licensure.

• Conduct fingerprinting of applicants in accordance with regulatory requirements.

• Receive, review, and safeguard confidential criminal history information in compliance with applicable laws and Regulations.

• Maintain accurate, current and complete records within the Licensing database.

• Prepare and submit all required reports and documentation in a timely manner as directed by the Licensing Manager.  

• Prepare and present investigative findings and recommendations to the Gaming Commissioners.

• Adhere to all Licensing Department policies, procedures and confidentiality standards.

• Evaluate existing processes and recommend procedural improvements to enhance operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.

• Coordinate, as directed by the Licensing Manager, with regulatory and law enforcement agencies regarding applicant investigations and licensing matters.

• Collaborate with Casino Management regarding licensing status and requirements.

• Interact professionally with Executive Committee, Gaming Commissioners, and Commission Staff.

• Maintain licensing files and records in accordance with established recordkeeping standards.

• Demonstrate professionalism and sound judgment when interacting with applicants, employees, and the public.

• Perform additional duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY REQUIREMENTS:

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Demonstrate ability to understand and interpret complex regulatory requirements related to gaming licensure.

• Ability to work effectively with Pala Gaming Commission staff, casino personnel, and external agencies.

• Possess strong written and verbal communication skills. 

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

• Proficient in standard office software applications, including word processing, spreadsheet, and common database programs.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, compliance-driven environment.

• Prior gaming, licensing, regulatory experience preferred.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent; and/or
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in licensing, investigations, regulatory compliance, law enforcement, or a related field; or
• An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.

LANGUAGE SKILLS:

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret regulatory documents, policies, and procedural manuals.

• Ability to prepare clear, concise reports and professional correspondence.

• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from staff, management, and regulatory bodies.

REASONING ABILITY:

• Ability to apply sound judgement and analytical thinking to interpret instructions and evaluate complex information in written, oral, or diagram form.

CERTIFICATES and LICENSES:

• Must successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation.
• Must successfully pass a pre-employment drug test.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, and use hands for handling and operating office equipment.

• Occasional bending, stooping, kneeling, and reaching may be required.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to twenty pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Work is performed in a professional office environment with occasional exposure to moderate noise levels typical of a casino or administrative setting.