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Background Investigation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Obtain factual information from a variety of personal and record sources to produce a report of investigation that contains all pertinent facts of an individual's background and character in ...

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Background Investigation information

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$30.5K

$70.1K

$114K

How much do background investigation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 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 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.

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 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.
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:
Infographic showing various Background Investigation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,123 per year, or $33.7 per hour.
Background Investigator

Background Investigator

City of Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

$31.75 - $38.12/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


City Of Colorado Springs rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

93rd of 833 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description / Position Overview About the Job: We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented professional to conduct comprehensive pre-employment background investigations for both civilian and sworn applicants. This position plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity and standards of our department by ensuring that all candidates meet the qualifications and ethical expectations required for public service. This position is subject to budget required furloughs to be implemented in the 2026 calendar year.

Come explore the possibilities a career with the City of Colorado Springs can offer. We're an accredited pay equity employer. Your starting pay will be within the posted hiring range based on your years of experience and education.

As an employee with the City of Colorado Springs, there is Room to Grow. See the full potential of growth for this position here: 2026 Salary Schedule As a Background Investigator, you will: Perform professionally complete and thorough pre-employment background investigations of civilian and sworn applicants for positions with CSPD and complete all required tasks within the established deadlines. Identify and investigate applicant behaviors, conduct, or circumstances that may impact suitability for sworn employment, and work with the Senior Background Investigator to determine whether further review or a disqualification recommendation is appropriate.

Conduct professional interviews of the candidate, references, and contacts. Verify the accuracy of the information that has been provided and obtained during the investigation. Communicate effectively with candidates during the background process.

Provide a detailed and unbiased written report to include all pertinent information regarding the suitability of the candidate for the civilian position or position of a police officer. Work collaboratively with members of the Background Section and other Human Resources personnel, as well as outside agencies. Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of modern office procedures, methods, and equipment, including computers and supporting software (Microsoft Office Suite) Knowledge of investigative processes and procedures Ability to prioritize, multitask and maintain a detailed schedule with limited supervision. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing Knowledge and ability to access and interpret financial, criminal, employment and educational records Knowledge of federal and state employment laws regarding pre-employment background investigations including FCRA Minimum Qualifications Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade (high school diploma or GED). Three years of full-time, professional experience in a related field.

Preferred experience in a law enforcement or public sector environment. Possess or obtain upon hire, a valid, non-probationary Colorado driver's license not subject to restriction related to alcohol and/or drug violations or pending charges. Possess or obtain within three months of hire: National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Certification and Colorado Crime Information Center (CCIC) Certification.

One year of relevant work experience may be substituted for one year of required education (OR) one year of academic coursework specifically related to this position beyond the minimum requirement may be substituted for one year of required professional experience. Preferred Qualifications Computer based investigative skills experience. One year of experience with a law enforcement agency.

Experience in the public sector. Experience with pre-employment background investigations. Additional Information Please contact CSPD Human Resources at cspdhiring@coloradosprings.gov for any questions about this position

Pre-employment Requirements: The job offer will be contingent upon successful completion of an extensive background investigation, to include a polygraph examination, extensive background check, fingerprinting, criminal history check, and other pre-employment assessments. The background investigation process commonly takes 6-8 weeks to complete. Applicants that have used marijuana or CBD products within 3 months from the date of their application submission will not be eligible for hire.

More information about the Colorado Springs Police Department's Marijuana Use Policy can be found here. Equal Opportunity Employer The City of Colorado Springs is committed to a welcoming culture that values our employees' unique individual qualities and fosters a welcoming environment where people want to be The City of Colorado Springs offers additional compensation depending on the position, area of assignment, and specific job assignments, including shift differential, pay differential, acting or lead, special assignment, hazard pay, longevity, cell phone allowance, uniform allowance, relocation, awards, standby, call out, compensatory time off, tuition, overtime, extra duty, incentive, holiday premium, proficiency, and vacation sell back. NOTE: This job announcement is not intended to include a complete listing of all responsibilities, knowledge, skills, and abilities associated with the position.

The City does not sponsor applicants for work visas of any kind (including but not limited to F-1, H-1B or TN visas). Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Apply to Join Our Team Please visit the City of Colorado Springs Careers page and review our opportunities.

Click on Apply button to complete an online application for any position of interest. All job applicants will need to create a new login and online application (unless you already have a Government Jobs user ID and password). Completing your application in full, including the entire work experience section, will assist Human Resources in the applicant screening process.

Your application may not be considered if all of the information requested for each employer you list is not provided. Applicants may redact information from their resumes, certifications, transcripts, or any other additional application materials that identify the applicant's age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

We encourage candidates with out-of-state credentials to inquire about expedited processing of Colorado licensing with the Colorado Occupational Credential Portability Program. More information can be found at the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies Licensing Portability page Our Government Jobs application system does not allow you to edit your application after it has been submitted for a position. If you want to make changes, you may submit another application prior to the position's closing date and time listed in the job posting.

HR will review the last application you submit for a position. The City's job classifications, including physical demands and descriptions, can be found on the Colorado Springs Class Specifications page You can view the status of your application on the City of Colorado Springs Careers page. To be notified of future career opportunities sign up for job alerts on the Job Alerts page.


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