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Background Investigations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VaultVestor

WI · On-site

$150 - $210/hr

The Role As a Director on the firm's Background Investigations team, you will be working in an industry-leading, collaborative, fast‑paced environment and will have the opportunity to provide ...

VaultVestor

$150 - $210/hr

The Role As a Director on the firm's Background Investigations team, you will be working in an industry-leading, collaborative, fast‑paced environment and will have the opportunity to provide ...

The Town of Parker

Background Investigator (PT)

Parker, CO · On-site +1

$25.71 - $36/hr

Conducts background investigations for police department hiring in accordance with department policies, applicable laws, and procedural requirements. Reviews employment application materials for ...

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Background Investigations information

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$30.5K

$70.1K

$114K

How much do background investigations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for background investigations 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 investigation?

Background investigations are thorough checks conducted to verify an individual's history, credentials, and suitability for a specific role, often in employment or security-sensitive positions. These investigations typically involve reviewing criminal records, employment history, education, credit reports, and references. The purpose is to ensure that candidates meet the necessary standards of trustworthiness and reliability required by the employer or agency. Background investigations may vary in depth depending on the job's security level or industry regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in background investigations?

To thrive in Background Investigations, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in criminal justice or a related field, often supported by relevant certifications or security clearances. Familiarity with investigative databases, case management systems, and public records search tools is important. Excellent written and verbal communication, discretion, and critical thinking are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure thorough, accurate investigations while maintaining confidentiality and legal compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in background investigations, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in background investigations often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, handling sensitive or confidential information, and verifying details from uncooperative sources. Managing these challenges requires strong organizational skills, adherence to legal and ethical guidelines, and effective communication with both clients and sources. Building a network of reliable contacts and staying updated on best practices in data privacy can also help investigators overcome obstacles and maintain the accuracy and integrity of their work.

What is the difference between Background Investigations vs Background Checks?

AspectBackground InvestigationsBackground Checks
Depth of ReviewComprehensive, detailed investigation including criminal, financial, and personal historyBasic screening, often limited to criminal records and employment verification
PurposeUsed for sensitive positions, security clearances, or high-risk rolesCommon for employment screening, rental applications, or volunteer positions
ProcessInvolves multiple sources, interviews, and in-depth researchTypically automated or quick searches of databases

Background investigations are more thorough and detailed than background checks, making them suitable for high-security or sensitive roles. Background checks are quicker and less invasive, often used for general employment screening. Understanding these differences helps employers select the appropriate screening process for their needs.

More about Background Investigations jobs

What cities are hiring for Background Investigations jobs?

Cities with the most Background Investigations job openings:

What states have the most Background Investigations jobs?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Background Investigations jobs are:

Background Investigations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Investigations job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,123 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Director, Background Investigations

Westlake, TX • On-site

Fidelity Investments
Investment Management and Consulting Services • 10K+ employees

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 272 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 152 rated financial services

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Fidelity Investmentsexternal

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

Note: Fidelity will not provide immigration sponsorship for this position.

The Role

As a Director on the firm's Background Investigations team, you will be working in an industry-leading, collaborative, fast-paced environment and will have the opportunity to provide comprehensive global background vetting of new hires and other investigative capabilities for Fidelity. In this role, you will focus on overseeing a team of background investigators and apply deep investigative knowledge and expertise on a range of matters. You will also partner closely with Internal Investigations and other business partners across the firm on escalated or sensitive issues.

The Director will also play a critical role in strategic initiatives, such as the development of our technology roadmap.

Provide outstanding leadership and investigative expertise

Drive operational excellence

Partner closely with key stakeholder across the firm

Implement transformational upgrades to modernize the team's process and technology

The location for this role is RI, NH, NJ, TX, FL, CO, UT or KY.

The Expertise and Skills You Bring

12-15 years of law enforcement, investigations, security, risk, or similar experience

Management and coaching expertise, from entry level to people managers

Demonstrated expertise in investigative analysis and techniques

Exceptional verbal and written communication, presentation, and analytical skills

Executive briefing experience - PowerPoint slide and deck creation.

Exceptional relationship management and communication skills

Strong leadership and operational process management skills

Track record of managing a portfolio of investigations with diverse sensitivities and priority levels

Ability to quickly diagnose and navigate sensitive organizational matters

Experience building new programs or frameworks preferred

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent degree

Fidelity's Onsite Working Model
Fidelity is transitioning to a full-time onsite working model through a phased rollout across regions and roles. Currently, some roles and locations require 100% onsite presence, while others require less. Onsite expectations are likely to evolve as the rollout continues. This transition does not apply to fully remote roles.

Certifications:Category:Security

Please be advised that Fidelity's business is governed by the provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, the Investment Company Act of 1940, ERISA, numerous state laws governing securities, investment and retirement-related financial activities and the rules and regulations of numerous self-regulatory organizations, including FINRA, among others. Those laws and regulations may restrict Fidelity from hiring and/or associating with individuals with certain Criminal Histories.

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