Business & Economy

Tennessee Bureau Seeks Legal Instrument Examiner for Gun Background Checks

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is hiring a Legal Instrument Examiner in Nashville to process gun background checks through the state’s instant check system.

Michael Reeves
Michael ReevesStaff Reporter
Published April 15, 2026, 2:01 PM GMT+2
Tennessee Bureau Seeks Legal Instrument Examiner for Gun Background Checks - Google Street View
Tennessee Bureau Seeks Legal Instrument Examiner for Gun Background Checks - Google Street View

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE β€” The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is recruiting for a Legal Instrument Examiner position to support the state’s firearm background check operations through the Tennessee Instant Check System.

The TBI announced the opening for one Legal Instrument Examiner 1 position based in Nashville, focusing on processing gun purchase background checks and database searches. The role involves handling telephonic and electronic inquiries while performing personal identifying information searches through federal and state databases.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

The position requires examining potential gun buyers’ personal information, including names and dates of birth, through the Tennessee Instant Check System Flex-check database. Examiners must verify Federal Firearm Licensee identifying information and compare buyer data against potential matches in criminal databases.

Daily tasks include reviewing criminal record responses and police reports to identify any prohibiting factors for gun purchases. Staff members must update criminal history databases when necessary and notify firearms dealers of final transaction determinations.

The role demands working under stringent deadlines in high-stress situations while adhering to strict security and privacy regulations. Examiners also field general inquiries from the public and licensed firearms dealers.

Education and Experience Requirements

Applicants must possess two years of coursework from an accredited college or university. The TBI offers alternative qualification paths for candidates with relevant professional experience.

Qualifying full-time professional experience involving firearm disposition may substitute for educational requirements on a year-for-year basis, up to a maximum of two years. This flexibility allows experienced professionals to qualify without traditional college coursework.

Compensation and Application Process

The position offers a monthly salary range of $3,631 to $5,434, providing competitive compensation for the specialized role. The salary structure reflects the technical nature and security clearance requirements of the position.

Interested candidates can obtain additional information by contacting the TBI Human Resources Unit at TBI.HR@tbi.tn.gov. The bureau encourages qualified applicants to apply promptly as the agency seeks to fill the single available position.

The Tennessee Instant Check System serves as the state’s mechanism for conducting federally mandated background checks on firearm purchases. The system processes thousands of requests annually from licensed dealers across Tennessee, requiring trained personnel to ensure accurate and timely processing of background check requests.

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