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Background Checks Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Background checks are conducted after an offer of employment has been made in the United States. The timing of when background checks will be conducted on candidates for positions outside the United ...

Sr. Software Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$199K - $208K/yr

Please note, Sony Interactive Entertainment conducts background checks at the offer stage for all new employees (which may include criminal background checks for some roles) and will need to process ...

Senior Software Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$193K - $289K/yr

Please note, Sony Interactive Entertainment conducts background checks at the offer stage for all new employees (which may include criminal background checks for some roles) and will need to process ...

Software Engineer II

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$182K - $245K/yr

Please note, Sony Interactive Entertainment conducts background checks at the offer stage for all new employees (which may include criminal background checks for some roles) and will need to process ...

Platform Engineer II

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$189K - $265K/yr

Please note, Sony Interactive Entertainment conducts background checks at the offer stage for all new employees (which may include criminal background checks for some roles) and will need to process ...

Sr. Product Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$159K - $232K/yr

Please note, Sony Interactive Entertainment conducts background checks at the offer stage for all new employees (which may include criminal background checks for some roles) and will need to process ...

Growth Strategy Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$192K - $223K/yr

Please note, Sony Interactive Entertainment conducts background checks at the offer stage for all new employees (which may include criminal background checks for some roles) and will need to process ...

Sr. Product Manager

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$159K - $232K/yr

Please note, Sony Interactive Entertainment conducts background checks at the offer stage for all new employees (which may include criminal background checks for some roles) and will need to process ...

Showing results 41-60

Background Checks information

See California salary details

$8

$18

$39

How much do background checks jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for background checks in California is $18.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.95 and $19.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Background Checks vs Security Guards?

AspectBackground ChecksSecurity Guards
PurposeVerify criminal history, employment, education, and other credentialsProtect property and people, monitor premises
Required CredentialsNone specific, but often includes background screening certificationsSecurity license or certification may be required
Work EnvironmentOffice, online, or on-site for screening processesOn-site at client locations, often outdoors or in various environments
Industry UsageHR, hiring, and employment screeningSecurity services, law enforcement support

Background Checks focus on verifying an individual's history to ensure suitability for employment or other purposes, while Security Guards are responsible for physical security and safety. Both roles are essential in the employment and security industries but serve different functions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a background checks specialist role, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Background Checks specialist, you need strong attention to detail, investigative skills, and knowledge of compliance regulations, typically supported by experience in HR, security, or legal fields. Familiarity with background screening tools, databases, and systems such as FCRA-compliant platforms is essential. Excellent communication, discretion, and problem-solving abilities help you navigate sensitive information and interact with clients or candidates professionally. These skills ensure accurate, lawful, and efficient background screening, protecting organizations from legal or reputational risks.

What are background checks?

Background checks are processes used by employers, landlords, or other organizations to verify an individual's identity, criminal record, employment history, education, and other relevant information. They are commonly performed during hiring processes to ensure candidates meet certain standards of trustworthiness and reliability. The scope of a background check can vary depending on the position and industry, ranging from basic identity verification to more in-depth screenings. These checks help organizations make informed decisions and maintain a safe environment.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals conducting background checks, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in background checks often encounter challenges such as incomplete or outdated information, varying state and international laws, and tight turnaround times for clients. Managing these challenges involves staying current with legal regulations, using reputable databases, and maintaining strong communication with both clients and data providers. Additionally, attention to detail and a consistent verification process help ensure accuracy and compliance throughout the background check process.

What are popular job titles related to Background Checks jobs in California?

For Background Checks jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Background Checks jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Background Checks jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Background Checks jobs?

Cities in California with the most Background Checks job openings:

Infographic showing various Background Checks job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 42% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,969 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Automation Specialist 4

CDM Smith

Carlsbad, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


CDM Smith rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Company Overview

Check out this video and find out why our team loves to work here!
Join Us! CDM Smith – where amazing career journeys unfold.
Imagine a place committed to offering an unmatched employee experience. Where you work on projects that are meaningful to you. Where you play an active part in shaping your career journey. Where your co-workers are invested in you and your success. Where you are encouraged and supported to do your very best and given the tools and resources to do so. Where it’s a priority that the company takes good care of you and your family.
Our employees are the heart of our company. As an employer of choice, our goal is to provide a challenging, progressive and inclusive work environment which fosters personal leadership, career growth and development for every employee. We value passionate individuals who challenge the norm, deliver world-class solutions and bring diverse perspectives. Join our team, and together we will make a difference and change the world.


Job Description
  • Creates basic to moderately complex instrumentation, controls and related systems designs using 3D and 4D design practices.
  • Assists with specification development.
  • Creates basic to moderately complex human-machine interface (HMI) graphics, programmable logic controller programming (PLC), report development, etc.
  • Assists with testing and startup of control systems.
  • Reviews basic to highly complex component level shop drawings, contractor clarifications.
  • Assist with testing oversight.
  • Leads staff and provides direction and mentoring for junior staff.
  • Reviews the work of junior staff as necessary.
  • Under general supervision, assists in the preparation proposal sections and presentations, as directed.
  • Supports marketing and new business activities as requested in support the Automation strategy.
  • May participate in proposals.
  • Performs other duties as required.

Skills & Abilities

Strong knowledge of instrumentation, controls and related systems designs. PLC and HMI experience required. Excellent communication skills. Strong knowledge of Microsoft office suite of programs. Expert knowledge of 3D and 4D design practices.


Qualifications

Bachelor's degree. 5 years of related experience. Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands. Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.


Amount of Travel Required
20% - 40%
Driving Requirements
An appropriate and valid driver's license is required.
EEO Statement
We attract the best people in the industry, supporting their efforts to learn and grow. We strive to create a challenging and progressive work environment. We provide career opportunities that span a variety of disciplines and geographic locations, with projects that our employees plan, design, build and operate as diverse as the needs of our clients. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, pregnancy related conditions, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Background Check and Drug Testing Information
CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries (hereafter collectively referred to as "CDM Smith") reserves the right to require background checks including criminal, employment, education, licensure, etc. as well as credit and motor vehicle when applicable for certain positions. In addition, CDM Smith may conduct drug testing for designated positions. Background checks are conducted after an offer of employment has been made in the United States. The timing of when background checks will be conducted on candidates for positions outside the United States will vary based on country statutory law but in no case, will the background check precede an interview. CDM Smith will conduct interviews of qualified individuals prior to requesting a criminal background check, and no job application submitted prior to such interview shall inquire into an applicant's criminal history. If this position is subject to a background check for any convictions related to its responsibilities and requirements, employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history. Criminal history will not automatically disqualify a candidate. In addition, during employment individuals may be required by CDM Smith or a CDM Smith client to successfully complete additional background checks, including motor vehicle record as well as drug testing.
Massachusetts Applicants
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Pay Range Min
USD $104,562.00
Pay Range Max
USD $182,978.00
Additional Pay Range Information
CDM Smith is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. This pay range is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels for the geographic location assigned to the position. In addition to geographic location, a candidate's salary is determined by several other factors including, but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, relevant work experience, skills, required certifications, and education/training.
Additional Compensation
All bonuses at CDM Smith are discretionary and may or may not apply to this position.
Visa Sponsorship Available
No-We will not support sponsorship in the United States, i.e. H-1B or TN Visas for this position
Agency Disclaimer
All vendors must have a signed CDM Smith Placement Agreement from the CDM Smith Talent Acquisition Manager to receive payment for your placement. Verbal or written commitments from any other member of the CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries staff will not be considered binding terms. All unsolicited resumes sent to CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries and any resume submitted to any employee outside of CDM Smith Talent Acquisition Team will be considered property of CDM Smith. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries will not be held liable to pay a placement fee.Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree. 5 years of related experience. Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands. Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

What CDM Smith employees say

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About CDM Smith

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CDM Smith is a distinguished name in the engineering and construction industry, providing insightful consulting, designing, and execution services. Based in Boston, Massachusetts, US, this full-service engineering and construction firm was founded in 1947 and has been contributing to the national and global infrastructure ever since. Serving across diverse sectors like transportation, environment, water, energy, and facilities, they have built a reputation for excellence. The company firmly stands on its mission of delivering lasting, superior solutions to the world's complex challenges, thereby ensuring their clients create a transformative impact.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

1947