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Background Investigation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jobtailor

$60 - $80/hr

Active federal background investigation with a T5 adjudication preferred * U.S. citizenship * Daily local and outside-area travel as needed * Home office required * Temporary Duty Assignments/remote ...

City of Durango, CO

Background Investigator

Durango, CO · On-site

$21.81 - $30.54/hr

The ability to successfully complete the City's pre-employment screening process, including a fingerprint-based records check and comprehensive background investigation. You Will Succeed in This Role ...

City of Durango

Background Investigator

Durango, CO · On-site

$21.81 - $30.54/hr

The ability to successfully complete the City's pre-employment screening process, including a fingerprint-based records check and comprehensive background investigation. You Will Succeed in This Role ...

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$30.5K

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How much do background investigation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for background investigation in the United States is $70,123.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a background investigator?

A background investigator is a professional responsible for conducting thorough checks into an individual's personal, professional, criminal, and financial history. Their work is often required for government security clearances, employment screenings, or law enforcement hiring. Background investigators gather information through interviews, public records searches, and verifying documents to ensure candidates meet the necessary standards for trustworthiness and reliability. Their findings help organizations make informed decisions about hiring or granting access to sensitive information.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a background investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Background Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of investigative techniques, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with case management systems, public records databases, and sometimes certification in federal background investigations (such as OPM or DSS credentials) is typically required. Excellent written and verbal communication, discretion, and critical thinking set outstanding investigators apart. These skills ensure thorough, accurate, and ethical investigations that protect organizational integrity and meet legal compliance standards.

What are some common challenges faced by background investigators and how can they be managed?

Background investigators often encounter challenges such as incomplete or conflicting information, unresponsive references, and tight deadlines. Managing these issues typically involves developing strong organizational skills, persistence in follow-ups, and effective communication with both clients and sources. Investigators also rely on a thorough understanding of privacy laws and proper documentation practices to ensure compliance and accuracy. Working as part of a team can help share knowledge and strategies for overcoming obstacles, making collaboration and adaptability key assets in this role.

What is the difference between Background Investigation vs Background Check?

AspectBackground InvestigationBackground Check
PurposeIn-depth assessment of an individual's history and characterBasic verification of criminal, employment, and educational records
ScopeComprehensive, including interviews and detailed researchLimited, often automated or document-based
CredentialsMay require specialized training or certificationsMinimal, often performed by HR or screening services
Work EnvironmentPrivate investigation firms, security agenciesHR departments, online screening services

While both involve reviewing an individual's history, a Background Investigation is more detailed and thorough, often used for sensitive positions. A Background Check is quicker and more routine, focusing on verifying key records. Understanding these differences helps employers choose the appropriate process for their hiring needs.

More about Background Investigation jobs

What cities are hiring for Background Investigation jobs?

Cities with the most Background Investigation job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Background Investigation jobs?

The most popular types of Background Investigation jobs are:

What states have the most Background Investigation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Background Investigation jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Background Investigation jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Background Investigation jobs are:

Background Investigation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Investigation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,123 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Background Investigator

Jobtailor

On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Conduct in-person background investigations by scheduling and performing face-to-face interviews with subjects, neighbors, employers, friends, and family.

  • Perform record searches at police agencies, courthouses, educational and financial institutions, and medical/mental health facilities, and report all obtained information clearly using a government-issued computer system.

  • Travel daily for in-person investigations, including local and outside-area travel, and work independently while collaborating with a team of Investigators and a Field Manager.

Job description

  • Complete full-time 6–7 week new Investigator training virtually and in person
  • Conduct daily travel for in-person background investigations assessing employment suitability for individuals requiring access to sensitive or classified U.S. Government information
  • Schedule and conduct face-to-face interviews with subjects, neighbors, employers, friends, and family
  • Perform record searches at police agencies, courthouses, educational and financial institutions, and medical/mental health facilities
  • Type and report all obtained information clearly and concisely using a government-issued computer system
  • Work independently while collaborating with a team of Investigators and a Field Manager
Requirements
  • 4 years of general work experience or a bachelor’s degree may be considered
  • Experience conducting federal background investigations preferred
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret eligible clearance
  • Active federal background investigation with a T5 adjudication preferred
  • U.S. citizenship
  • Daily local and outside-area travel as needed
  • Home office required
  • Temporary Duty Assignments/remote travel of 14–30 days away from home per TDY may be required
  • Must reside within 50 miles of McMurray city center
  • Valid driver’s license and full-time use of reliable transportation
  • Sufficient motor vehicle insurance
  • Accurate and efficient typing capabilities; 40+ WPM recommended
  • Ability to work with multiple computer programs concurrently
  • Ability to speak for extended periods and hear sufficiently for in-person and telephone communication
  • Ability to record, read, and transcribe words and numbers accurately
  • Proficient grammar and writing skills
  • Ability to interact professionally, write for long periods, meet attendance and punctuality expectations, and maintain attention to detail
  • High level of confidentiality, ethics, and integrity
  • Professional attire required
  • Ability to lift and move up to 10 pounds, climb stairs, walk extensively, stand for long periods, and drive in adverse or nighttime conditions
Core Competencies

Demonstrates expertise in conducting federal background investigations, including interviewing and record searches, while maintaining high standards of confidentiality and ethics. Proficient in typing and reporting information clearly, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Highest-signal resume keywords
  • Federal Background Investigation Experience
  • Top Secret Eligible Clearance
  • Accurate Typing Skills (40+ WPM)
  • Professional Communication Skills
  • Attention to Detail
ATS Optimization KeywordsHard Skills
  • Background Investigation
  • Record Searches
  • Interviewing Skills
  • Typing Proficiency
  • Data Reporting
  • Computer Program Proficiency
Soft Skills
  • Professionalism
  • Confidentiality
  • Ethics
  • Collaboration
  • Communication
Certifications & Qualifications
  • Top Secret Clearance
Industry Keywords
  • U.S. Government
  • Employment Suitability
  • Sensitive Information
  • Temporary Duty Assignments
  • Federal Regulations
Tools & Technologies
  • Government-Issued Computer System
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