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Background Investigations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Xcelerate Solutions

1099 Background Investigator

The investigations often involve personal and intimate details of an individual's life and must be ... Review completed background interview documentation checking for inconsistencies, errors, omissions ...

Constellis

Experienced Background Investigator

VA · On-site

POSITION SUMMARY Conduct federal background investigations and prepare reports of investigations in compliance with Federal Investigative Standards, all laws, and other required federal agency ...

Constellis

Experienced Background Investigator

VA · On-site

POSITION SUMMARY Conduct federal background investigations and prepare reports of investigations in compliance with Federal Investigative Standards, all laws, and other required federal agency ...

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$30.5K

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How much do background investigations jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 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 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 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.

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.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,123 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Background Check Investigations Analyst

Control Risks

Scottsdale, AZ

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Control Risks is hiring a Background Check Investigations Analyst to support a major financial institution client. This role sits within the client's Security team, which owns the end-to-end pre-employment background screening process. The analyst will be responsible for administering, processing, and reviewing background, evaluating records against established risk criteria, and preparing clear investigative reports for HR and hiring decision-makers. This is a detail-oriented, process-driven role well-suited for someone who thrives in structured, high-volume work that still demands analytical judgment.

  • Manage full-scope pre-employment background investigations from initiation through final disposition, ensuring each case follows established process workflows.
  • Process and review incoming background check results, applying consistent quality review to every record received.
  • Evaluate court records, public documents, open-source data, and database records to assess whether findings fall within the client's risk appetite for employment-related matters.
  • Review and interpret fingerprint reports, identifying records that require further research or escalation.
  • Conduct open-source intelligence (OSINT) research to locate court dispositions, verify records, and acquire supplementary information on relevant persons or events.
  • Prepare written investigative reports and summaries documenting findings, analysis, and recommended next steps for HR and compliance review teams.
  • Conduct due diligence investigations in cases requiring deeper review, particularly where results fall on the cusp of risk thresholds and require additional context.
  • Respond to internal email inquiries regarding the status and outcomes of background screening cases.
  • Coordinate with HR and hiring teams to route completed reports for hire/no-hire decisions, without serving as the final decision-maker.
  • Navigate vendor platforms and regulatory systems, including the FINRA CRD portal, to process and track screening activity.
  • Prepare for and perform investigative interviews to collect, verify, and document information as needed.
  • Any other duties as assigned. in structured, high-volume work that still demands analytical judgment.

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