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Background Investigator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Special Agent

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site +1

$67K - $147K/yr

Must pass a federal background investigation and maintain a top-secret clearance. * Must qualify and maintain authorization to carry firearms/weapons. * Must successfully complete a regularly ...

Unarmed Security Officer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Must be able to pass a Background Investigation. Must be able to pass a Drug Screen. Must be able to pass a Physical Exam. Must have a Driver License and clean driving record Must Speak English ...

Showing results 21-40

Background Investigator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$28.6K

$65.7K

$106.9K

How much do background investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for background investigator in Decatur, AL is $65,737.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,900.00 and $79,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is a background investigator?

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Background Investigator jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Background Investigator jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Background Investigator jobs in Decatur, AL? For Background Investigator jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Background Investigator jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Background Investigator job openings:
Infographic showing various Background Investigator job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,737 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Personnel Security Specialist III with Security Clearance

Amentum

Huntsville, AL โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

About Amentum Amentum is a global leader in advanced engineering and innovative technology solutions, trusted by the United States and its allies to address their most significant and complex challenges in science, security and sustainability. Our people apply undaunted curiosity, relentless ambition and boundless imagination to challenge convention and drive progress. Our commitments are underpinned by the belief that safety, collaboration and well-being are integral to success.Headquartered in Chantilly, Virginia, we have approximately 50,000 employees in more than 70 countries across all 7 continents. This position is contingent upon a number of items including, but not limited to, security processing and position availability, which may lead to a lengthy hiring process. Job Description: * Review and analyze requests for investigations concerning security clearances, reciprocity, requirements, violations, and assessments. Subjects of the investigations range from on - board employees, contract / access applicants and other personnel requiring security clearances or access to FBI facilities. * Review and analyze various FBI investigative files and related material to determine and extract all possible identifying information, matching records, questionable or overlapping elements and other areas of investigative consideration, which could have a bearing on an individual's reliability, trustworthiness, and loyalty. * Examine and analyze material to determine any deliberate misrepresentation of facts, criminal or immoral conduct, any signs of mentally disabling illness, sympathetic association with hostile intelligence individuals / organizations and facts or fragments of information which furnish reason to sustain suspicion that the subject may be a possible security risk. * Conduct Personnel Security Interviews (PSIs) as determined during the course of the security investigation, in conjunction with information developed or per the request of FBI HQ. * Prepare a detailed analysis of all information developed, supporting analysis and recommendations to initiate further investigation, and any additional security concerns and recommendations based on this information, which would include remedial or precautionary action to meet minimum security standards. Ensure that all relevant information and justification is developed and properly considered in accordance with security policies and FBI regulations. * Conduct security briefings which include Security Awareness and Hostile Threat. Revise security briefings based on the specific issues developed and security requirements. * Assist in conducting preliminary and final reviews of statements of personal history and related data prior to the initiation of background investigation procedures. * Conduct BIs of individuals who would occupy positions where a determination of suitability for employment or access to classified information is required. * Prepare reports on investigations resulting from interviews conducted during BIs. * Draft summary sheets on the results of investigations for all assigned cases. In case of derogatory information, draft a detailed evaluation of the adverse information. * When information is insufficient to make a recommendation regarding the disposition of the case, draft a list of recommended questions for lines of inquiry for follow - on investigations. * Assist in making recommendations for adjudication of personal background investigations for employment with the FBI and / or issuance of a security clearance. * Work assignments include but are not limited to: * Review Personnel Security Questionnaires (SF - 86 and SF - 85P) * Verify information submitted on applications * Contact subjects via approved methods to complete information on background investigation forms * Input data from MAC applications * Retrieve data from credit bureaus, request Local Agency Checks, review reports to determine criminal record, traffic violation, etc. * Prepare reports on investigations resulting from interviews conducted during the BI. * Draft summary sheets on the results of investigations for all assigned cases. * Prioritize assignments and create schedules to meet deadlines. * Use advanced interview skills to work with subjects to gather more in - depth details relating to their backgrounds. * Conduct peer reviews as required. * With minimum direction, supports research and analysis into complex problems and processes. * Serve as expert on project teams. * Provide critical thinking and analysis utilized for completion of written documentation and oral presentations. * Apply extensive experience and full knowledge of security disciples. * Perform all duties associated with level II as necessary. * This position has been deemed mission critical by the customer Minimum Qualifications: * Must have an Active Top Secret US Government Clearance. Note: US Citizenship is required to maintain a Top Secret Clearance. * Five (5) years of experience in the personnel security investigative or investigative analyst field. * Bachelor's Degree with five (5) years' experience OR Associate's Degree with seven (7) years' experience. * Minimum of two (2) years of experience developing and writing Reports of Investigation that form basis for creation of investigative and / or adjudication record. * Experience interpreting Governmental and commercial database checks to identify areas of concern during the investigative process. * Experience analyzing investigative reports and other sources of information to identify security vulnerabilities; to develop investigative leads; to propose a recommendation as to the approval, denial, or revocation of eligibility for access to national security information based on the application of the appropriate adjudicative standards. * Proficient computer skills to include: * Working knowledge of Microsoft Office software applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) * Use of Internet to conduct research and / or open source checks in aid of investigations * Experience with various Federal LE and IC IT systems for conducting automated record checks. * Knowledge of and experience with use of applicable commercial and Federal Government database systems. * Experience performing database searches for information related to personnel security matters. * Distribution and update of personnel security documentation files. * Responsibility for security of program data and materials. * Processing security clearance and BI documentation in preparation for adjudication. * Prepared documentation for Government agencies and customers. * Experience performing multiple administrative tasks dealing with databases queries, filing, processing mail and performing audits. * Excellent oral and written communication skills. * Demonstrated knowledge and experience to conduct established Federal Government standards for investigations, BIs, and security investigations relating to suitability and security standards. Desired Qualifications: * Knowledge of DOJ and FBI regulations regarding the personnel security process. * Experience conducting interviews and security briefings, discussing analysis and opinion in a concise, logical and objective manner, and preparing written communications setting forth analyses and recommendations. * Thorough knowledge of the indices systems, various record check systems, and file review processes to develop and extract the most complete and accurate information relative to the subject as possible. * Demonstrated understanding of the following security - related / investigative guidelines: * Federal Investigative Standards (FIS) * Security Executive Agent Directives (SEADs) * Executive Orders (EOs) * U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (US CFR) Work Environment: This position is performed in a traditional office environment. Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand and/or walk; handle or feel objects; and write. Ability to bend, reach, lift, and carry up to 15 pounds. Compensation Details:
$62,682.27 - $70,000.00 The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws. Benefits Overview: Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include: * Health, dental, and vision insurance * Paid time off and holidays * Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching) * Educational reimbursement * Parental leave * Employee stock purchase plan * Tax-saving options * Disability and life insurance * Pet insurance Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits. Original Posting:
07/01/2026 - Until Filled
Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs. Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can b