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Background Investigator 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 Investigator information

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$30.5K

$70.1K

$114K

How much do background investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for background investigator 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.

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 cases. Many work on a freelance or part-time basis, often requiring strong research skills and familiarity with investigative tools.

What is the 3 month rule for jobs?

The 3 month rule for a Background Investigator typically refers to the period during which they must complete background checks and investigations for new hires, often within three months of starting the process. This timeframe ensures timely completion of background reports, which are essential for employment clearance and security clearance requirements. Meeting this deadline is important for maintaining workflow and compliance with agency or company policies.

How do I become a background investigator?

To become a background investigator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant work experience, and pass a background check. Many employers prefer applicants to complete training programs or obtain certifications such as the Professional Background Investigator Certification (PBIC). Strong research, interviewing, and report-writing skills are also important for success in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by Background Investigators, and how can they be addressed?

Background Investigators often encounter challenges such as incomplete or conflicting information, uncooperative sources, and tight deadlines for report submissions. To address these issues, it's important to develop strong communication and organizational skills, as well as persistence in following up with relevant contacts. Collaborating closely with team members and utilizing available databases can help streamline the process and improve the accuracy of findings. Continuous training on the latest investigative techniques and compliance requirements also helps investigators adapt to evolving industry standards.

What jobs are off limits to felons?

Background Investigators typically do not have restrictions based solely on felony history, but certain jobs may be off limits for felons, especially those involving security, law enforcement, or positions requiring a high level of trust or security clearance. Employers may also restrict felons from jobs in healthcare, finance, or childcare depending on the nature of their convictions and licensing requirements. Regulations vary by state and industry, and some employers conduct background checks to determine eligibility for specific roles.

What are background investigators?

Background investigators are professionals who conduct detailed research into an individual's personal, professional, and criminal history. They verify information provided by job applicants or security clearance candidates, often interviewing references, checking records, and preparing comprehensive reports. Their work is crucial for organizations and government agencies that require trustworthy employees in sensitive positions. Background investigators must adhere to strict privacy and legal guidelines while collecting and analyzing information.

What Is a Background Investigator?

A background investigator researches background and criminal histories for large organizations, federal agencies, and school districts. As a background investigator, you work closely with administrators and hiring managers to determine if potential candidates are qualified, capable, and well-suited to be successful in the role. Background investigators use online and other research tools, as well as interviews with friends, associates, former employers, and others to get a comprehensive understanding of a candidate’s background.

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 abilities, attention to detail, and investigative skills, often supported by a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with background screening databases, case management software, and compliance with legal regulations such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is typical. Excellent communication, discretion, and interpersonal skills are crucial for conducting interviews and handling sensitive information. These competencies ensure thorough, accurate investigations that maintain legal compliance and protect organizational integrity.
What cities are hiring for Background Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Background Investigator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Background Investigator jobs? The most popular types of Background Investigator jobs are:
What states have the most Background Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Background Investigator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Background Investigator 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

$31.75 - $38.12/hr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


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.