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Background Investigator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Conduct background investigations for police department applicants. 13. Performs other related duties and responsibilities not requiring Peace Officer powers. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities ...

Military background; insurance or investigations experience Start your career with a leader in the investigations industry that is financially stable, is experiencing growth, and whose history spans ...

Military background; insurance or investigations experience Start your career with a leader in the investigations industry that is financially stable, is experiencing growth, and whose history spans ...

Military background; insurance or investigations experience Start your career with a leader in the investigations industry that is financially stable, is experiencing growth, and whose history spans ...

Surveillance Investigator Job Locations US-CA-San Dimas | US-CA-Santa Ana Requisition ID 2026-1625004 Category (Portal Searching) Compliance & Investigations Business Unit CNI Overview Company ...

Surveillance Investigator Job Locations US-CA-San Dimas | US-CA-Santa Ana Requisition ID 2026-1625004 Category (Portal Searching) Compliance & Investigations Business Unit CNI Overview Company ...

Surveillance Investigator Job Locations US-CA-San Clemente | US-CA-Orange Requisition ID 2026-1624984 Category (Portal Searching) Compliance & Investigations Business Unit CNI Overview Company ...

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Background Investigator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$31.8K

$73.2K

$118.9K

How much do background investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for background investigator in Riverside, CA is $73,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,200.00 and $88,700.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Background Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Background Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Background Investigator jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Background Investigator job openings:
Infographic showing various Background Investigator job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,157 per year, or $35.2 per hour.
Background Investigator (Recurrent)

Background Investigator (Recurrent)

San Bernardino County

San Bernardino, CA • On-site

$56K - $77K/yr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


San Bernardino County rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

476th of 833 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The Job Applications will be accepted until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received. This recruitment may close without further notice; interested candidates should apply as soon as possible. The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department is recruiting for recurrent Background Investigators who are responsible for conducting thorough investigations on potential employees to determine their suitability for safety and general positions within a law enforcement environment.

Essential duties include conducting personal interviews with prospective hires and guiding them through the background process; reviewing personal history statements and evaluating candidates based on department standards and legal requirements; interviewing personal references and previous employers; verifying credit and criminal history, education, birth records, age, military service, and DMV records; and preparing detailed reports recommending either hiring or disqualification. For more detailed information, please refer to the Background Investigator job description. Note: Recurrent positions are in the unclassified service.

Incumbents shall be considered at will, serve at the discretion of the appointing authority, and will not attain status as a regular county employee. CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT Background: Candidates must not have been convicted of a felony and must successfully pass an extensive background investigation which includes a fingerprint check and polygraph. Certificate: Incumbent must successfully complete a certified program in Background Investigation for Public Safety and Peace Officers within three (3) months of employment or be terminated.

Travel: Travel throughout the County may be required and employees will be required to make provisions for such transportation. Sponsorship: San Bernardino County is not able to consider candidates who will require visa sponsorship at the time of application or in the future. Desired Qualifications Applicants must meet one of the following options: Option 1: One (1) year of full-time equivalent experience with primary responsibility for conducting pre-employment background investigations in a law enforcement environment.

Option 2: Two (2) years of full-time equivalent experience with primary responsibility for conducting pre-employment background investigations. Option 3: Two (2) years of full-time equivalent experience with primary responsibility for conducting criminal investigations in a law enforcement environment. (Equivalent to a detective, investigator, probation or parole officer; investigative experience as a patrol officer is not qualifying).

POST Intermediate or POST Advanced certificates or completion of a certificated program or course in Background Investigation for Public Safety and Peace Officers are highly desired. Selection Process You are encouraged to include detailed descriptions of your qualifying experience and skills, as only the most highly qualified applicants will be referred to the Sheriff's Department. Application Procedure: Applications will be accepted continuously and reviewed periodically.

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible as this recruitment may close at any time. (Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application and/or supplemental questionnaire.) To ensure timely and successful submission of your online application, please allow ample time to complete and submit your application. Applicants will be automatically logged-out if they have not submitted the application and all required materials prior to the recruitment closing

Once your application has been successfully submitted you will receive an onscreen confirmation and an email. We recommend that you save and/or print these for your records. Please note: if you do not receive an onscreen confirmation and an email acknowledging our receipt of your application, we have not received your application.

If you need technical assistance, follow this link to review the Government Jobs online application guide or contact their Toll-Free Applicant Support line at (855) 524-5627. Please note that Human Resources is not responsible for any issues or delays caused by your internet connection, computer, or browser when submitting an application. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) / Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): San Bernardino County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant employer, dedicated to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants.

ADA Accommodation: If you have a disability and need accommodations during the testing process, please submit the Special Testing Accommodations Request Form (Download PDF) within one week of the recruitment filing deadline. Veterans' Preference: Eligible veterans, their spouses, or widows/widowers who are not current County employees may receive additional Veterans' Preference points. For details and instructions on how to request these points, please refer to the Veterans' Preference Information (Download PDF).

For more important details, review the Applicant Information and County Employment Process.


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