If they're doing a background check, it's always a positive sign. It's very expensive to do so, and at the federal level, it's not initiated until the applicant agrees to the position. Sometimes you hear from them while still in the midst of the investigation to determine if you're still interested. You're asked that if you change your mind or accept an offer with another office, to let them know immediately....$$$$ So, when it gets to the background checks, it's a good thing.
Laura