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Background Investigator Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Janitor

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

... a background investigation for both the company as well Government Must be able to perform physical labor to include lifting and carrying a maximum of 50 lbs May require a valid drivers ...

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Background Investigator information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$27.5K

$63.2K

$102.8K

How much do background investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for background investigator in Rio Rancho, NM is $63,244.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $76,700.00 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Background Investigator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Background Investigator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What are popular job titles related to Background Investigator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Background Investigator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Background Investigator jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Background Investigator job openings:
Supervisory Criminal Investigator (MMU Chief)

Supervisory Criminal Investigator (MMU Chief)

US Department of the Interior

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$130K/yr

Other

Posted 13 days ago


U.S. Department Of The Interior rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

299th of 646 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

This position is located with the Office of the Secretary of Interior, OJS, Missing and Murdered in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The incumbent performs supervisory duties related to criminal investigations, work in a task force environment that focuses on reported missing persons and cold case investigations related to missing persons and unsolved murder cases.Qualifications:EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS: (OPM Operating Manual, Qualification Standards ).
To qualify for the GS-14 grade level, you must have at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-13 grade level performing all of the following: Proven leadership experience managing and supervising criminal investigators involved with operations; planning, organizing, and administering activities for a law enforcement organization to include, conducting complex criminal investigations; management of human and financial resources; representing an organization among different jurisdictions; and formulating and revising law enforcement policies and guidelines.
FIREARMS REQUIREMENT: This position requires that the incumbent meet initial and continuing qualifications in the use of firearms as outlined in the Gun Control Act of 1968, amended by the Lautenberg Amendment of 1996. An applicant whose background includes any of the following will be ineligible for consideration: 1) convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year; 2) has any outstanding warrants or is a fugitive from justice; 3) unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance; 4) adjudicated as a mental defective or has been committed to a mental institution; 5) illegally or unlawfully in the United States; 6) renounced U. S. citizenship; 7) subject to a court-ordered restraining order from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner or child; or 8) convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS: The duties of this position require moderate to arduous physical exertion involving walking and standing, use of firearms, and exposure to inclement weather. Manual dexterity with comparatively free motion of finger, wrist, elbow, shoulder, hip, and knee joints is required. Arms, hands, legs, and feet must be sufficiently intact and functioning in order that applicants may perform the duties satisfactorily. Sufficiently good vision in each eye, with or without correction, is required to perform duties satisfactorily. Near vision, corrective lenses permitted, must be sufficient to read printed material the size of typewritten characters. Hearing loss, as measured by an audiometer, must not exceed 35 decibels at 1000, 2000, and 3000 Hz levels. Since the duties of these positions are exacting and responsible, and involve activities under trying conditions, applicants must possess emotional and mental stability. Any physical condition that would cause the applicant to be a hazard too himself/herself, or others is disqualifying.
NOTE: To be eligible for Secondary Law Enforcement Coverage, you must 1) move directly from a federal Primary/Rigorous position; 2) complete 3 years of service in a primary/rigorous position, and; 3) must be continuously employed in a secondary position(s) since moving from a primary/rigorous position.
All qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of this announcement.
Merit Promotion candidates must also meet time-in-grade requirements by the announcement closing date.
Education:N/AEmployment Type: OTHER

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