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Background Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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How much do background investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 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 (FT Employee) - Fairfax, VA

Background Investigator (FT Employee) - Fairfax, VA

Peraton

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$26.07/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 213 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities

Peraton is seeking to fill a critical role for a full-time background investigator near Fairfax, VA. Applicants must reside within 50 miles of the city center of Fairfax.

What you'll do:

The Investigator will be responsible for the following but not limited to:

  • Successfully complete a full time, 6-7 week new Investigator training both virtually and in person in order to be certified in the Federal Investigative Standards for government background investigations
  • Travel daily when conducting in person background investigations for the purpose of determining employment suitability of persons who require access to sensitive or classified U.S. Government information
  • Investigators will schedule and conduct face-to-face interviews throughout their designated area with the subject and their neighbors, employers, friends and family
  • Investigators will also perform record searches at police agencies, courthouses, educational and financial institutions, and medical/mental health facilities
  • Investigators are required to type and report all obtained information in a clear and concise report on a government issued computer system
  • Working independently while also a member of a team of Investigators and with a Field Manager
Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Candidates with 4 years of general work experience or a bachelor's degree may be considered; candidates with experience conducting federal background investigations preferred
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret eligible clearance; Active federal background investigation with a T5 adjudication is preferred
  • U.S. citizenship
  • Daily travel required locally and outside of primary work area as needed
  • Home office required
  • Temporary Duty Assignments (TDY)/remote travel ranging from 14 - 30 days away from home per TDY may be required
  • Must reside within the stated mileage requirement posted in job description
  • A valid driver's license and full time usage of reliable transportation are required. Driving is an essential function of the job and Motor Vehicle Records may be checked as part of the hiring process or at any time during employment
  • Required to carry sufficient motor vehicle insurance
  • Accurate and efficient typing capabilities (40+ WPM recommended) and ability to work within multiple computer programs concurrently
  • Must be able to speak for extended periods of time and hear sufficiently to communicate in person and over the phone; record, read and transcribe words and numbers with a high degree of accuracy
  • Proficient grammar and writing skills in order to submit high quality reports with minimal or no errors
  • Must be able to interact professionally with others, to write for long periods of time, meet expectations for attendance and punctuality, and able to pay attention to details while conducting fieldwork
  • Maintain high level of confidentiality ethics and integrity
  • Professional attire required
  • Must be able to lift and move up to 10 pounds, climb stairs, walk extensively, endure long periods of standing and drive in adverse and/or night conditions

Desired Qualifications: 

  • Ability to interact with a variety of individuals and personalities professionally and effectively
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced changing environment under remote supervision
  • Excellent organizational, scheduling and prioritization skills
  • Proficient writing and communication skills

Relocation assistance is not available for this position.

#RDG

Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary RangeThe rate / range per hour below represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.SCA / Union / Intern Rate or Range$26.07EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017