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Background Investigations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Constellis

Experienced Background Investigator

VA

POSITION SUMMARY Conduct federal investigations and prepare reports of investigations in compliance ... individual's background and character, in accordance with agency guidelines and instructions.

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$30.5K

$70.1K

$114K

How much do background investigations jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 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 the highest paying investigator job?

The highest paying investigator jobs are often in corporate security, private investigation, or specialized fields such as cybersecurity or financial crime investigation, with senior roles or those requiring advanced certifications earning higher salaries. Experience, industry, and location significantly influence compensation levels for investigators in these fields.

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.

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 education do background investigators need?

Background investigators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require an associate's or bachelor's degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or related fields. Relevant skills include attention to detail, research abilities, and familiarity with investigative tools, and certifications such as a background check certification can be beneficial.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Background Investigations, and why are they important?

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.

How much do contract background investigators make?

Contract background investigators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of investigations. Many work freelance or through staffing agencies, and some may earn additional income with specialized skills or certifications in areas like criminal record checks or financial reviews.

What are background investigations?

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 is a background investigator?

A background investigator is a professional who conducts detailed checks on individuals' personal, professional, and criminal history to assess their suitability for employment, security clearance, or other positions. They gather information through interviews, record searches, and database reviews, often working for government agencies or private firms. Strong research, communication skills, and attention to detail are essential for this role.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. 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

Background Investigator

City of Colorado Springs, CO

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

$31.75 - $38.12/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Salary: $31.75 - $38.12 Hourly
Location : Police Department - City of Colorado Springs, CO
Job Type: Classified - Full Time
Job Number: 18315
Division: Colorado Springs Police Department
Department: CSPD Human Resources
Opening Date: 07/08/2026
Closing Date: 7/22/2026 4:00 PM Mountain
FLSA: Exempt
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, thereis 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 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
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 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
  • 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
You can view the status of your application on the
To be notified of future career opportunities sign up for job alerts on the page.
Working for the City of Colorado Springs is Rewarding!
Please visit the City of Colorado Springs' for additional benefits information.
The City of Colorado Springs is a place where people want to come to work each day. We have a culture of excellence, and we strive to provide our employees with the very best overall career experience and Total Rewards. We are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits program to meet the needs of our employees and their families.
01
Do you have equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade (high school diploma or GED)?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have three years of full-time, professional experience in a related field?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you possess, or can you 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?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have, or can you obtain within three months of hire a National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Certification and Colorado Crime Information Center (CCIC) Certification?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have computer-based investigative skills and experience?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you have experience working in a public sector or law enforcement environment?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Do you have experience with pre-employment background investigations?
  • Yes
  • No

08
By answering yes to this question, I acknowledge that I have read and understand CSPD's Marijuana Use Policy, which can be found on CSPD's website https://coloradosprings.gov/police-department/page/marijuana-use
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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