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Background Researcher Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ICF

Transportation Researcher

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

The Transportation Researcher should have a general background or interest in urban planning and sustainable transportation, excellent written and oral communication skills, and strong inter-personal ...

Steely

Senior SATCOM Researcher

Reston, VA · On-site

$225K - $250K/yr

Background or education in computer, communications, and network security, ideally with a BS or MS degree in a relevant engineering discipline * Experience as a security researcher with demonstrated ...

Nightwing

Technology Researcher

Arlington, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

The Cyber Technology Researcher will be responsible for concurrently tracking, advising, and ... Background in cybersecurity tool integration and automation - Experience managing integrations in ...

Nwis

Technology Researcher

Arlington, VA

$99K - $206K/yr

The Cyber Technology Researcher will be responsible for concurrently tracking, advising, and ... Background in cybersecurity tool integration and automation - Experience managing integrations in ...

Hyphen Connect Limited

Background in Psychology, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), or a related field. * Proven expertise in various research methods, including user interviews, surveys, and usability testing. * Strong ...

Steely

Senior SATCOM Researcher

Reston, VA

$225K - $250K/yr

Experience as a security researcher with demonstrated background in reverse engineering of hardware, decompiling/disassembly of embedded code, and protocol analysis * Must have significant direct ...

Morgan Stanley

Machine Learning Researcher

Broadway, VA

$154K - $213K/yr

Morgan Stanley's Machine Learning Research Department is responsible for working across the Firms ... background but uniform in reflecting our standards of integrity and excellence. Consequently, our ...

NewGen

Cyber Technology Researcher

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Cyber Technology Researcher will be responsible for concurrently tracking, advising, and ... Background in cybersecurity tool integration and automation * Experience managing integrations in ...

Echelon Insights

Research Team Roles

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Analysts will contribute ideas and background research to help shape research design, focus, and findings, and to make their mark on reports, presentations, and deliverables that will go to clients ...

Echelon Insights

Research Team Roles

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

Analysts will contribute ideas and background research to help shape research design, focus, and findings, and to make their mark on reports, presentations, and deliverables that will go to clients ...

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All JobsBackground Researcher JobsBackground Researcher Jobs in Virginia

Background Researcher information

See Virginia salary details

$29.7K

$112.1K

$163.1K

How much do background researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for background researcher in Virginia is $112,132.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,400.00 and $152,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a background researcher do?

A Background Researcher is responsible for gathering, verifying, and analyzing information about individuals, organizations, or topics to support decision-making, due diligence, or investigative processes. Their work often involves checking public records, media reports, social media, and other databases to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided. Background Researchers are commonly employed in industries such as journalism, law, corporate hiring, and security services, where accurate background information is crucial. They must possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to ethical research practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a background researcher?

To thrive as a Background Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in research or investigative fields, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with online databases, public records systems, and research management tools is typically required. Excellent written communication, discretion, and persistence help you stand out in gathering and reporting sensitive information. These skills ensure thorough, accurate, and ethical background checks, which are crucial for informed decision-making in hiring, security, or due diligence processes.

How does a background researcher typically collaborate with other departments during the research process?

Background Researchers frequently work closely with departments such as editorial, legal, and production. They gather, verify, and organize information based on requests from these teams to ensure accuracy and compliance in content or reporting. Regular communication and clear documentation are crucial, as researchers must provide timely updates and adapt to shifting project priorities. This collaborative dynamic helps maintain high standards of credibility and efficiency in the final output.

What is the difference between Background Researcher vs Data Analyst?

AspectBackground ResearcherData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in social sciences, research methods, or related fieldsBachelor's or higher in statistics, mathematics, or data science
Work EnvironmentResearch firms, government agencies, academic institutionsCorporate, finance, healthcare, or tech industries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed for gathering background info, verifying facts, and supporting investigationsUsed for interpreting data, creating reports, and informing business decisions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, job requirements, and career pathsComparing data analysis skills, tools, and job functions

While both roles involve working with information, a Background Researcher focuses on collecting and verifying background information for investigations or research projects. In contrast, a Data Analyst interprets data sets to generate insights and support decision-making. Both roles require analytical skills and research abilities but serve different purposes within organizations.

What are popular job titles related to Background Researcher jobs in Virginia?

For Background Researcher jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Background Researcher jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Background Researcher jobs in Virginia are:

Background Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Researcher job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,132 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Research Analyst

Chmura Economics & Analytics

Richmond, VA • On-site

$63K/yr

Full-time

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

Job description

Working alongside a team of economists and consultants, the Research Analyst supports economic research, data analysis, and client engagements across Chmura's consulting practice. The Research Analyst conducts quantitative and background research, analyzes economic and workforce data, and contributes to reports, presentations, and other client deliverables. This role requires strong quantitative and communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines.
Key Responsibilities
Economic Research & Analysis
  • Conduct research on local, regional, and national economies to identify economic, demographic, workforce, and industry trends.
  • Collect, organize, analyze, and evaluate quantitative and qualitative data related to economic and workforce issues.
  • Support the application of economic, statistical, and regional models used in client engagements.
  • Conduct background and secondary research to support economic analyses, client projects, and consulting recommendations.
  • Assist senior economists and consultants with research and analysis on more complex engagements.
  • Review data and research findings for accuracy, consistency, and relevance.
Client Deliverables & Communication
  • Contribute to the development of client reports, presentations, data visualizations, and other deliverables.
  • Translate research findings and quantitative analysis into clear, accessible information for technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Support the development of statements of work (SOWs), proposals, and other client-facing materials.
  • Participate in client meetings alongside senior economists and consultants and provide research or analytical support as appropriate.
  • Clearly communicate research methods, findings, and supporting data to internal project teams.
Project & Consulting Support
  • Manage assigned research and analytical tasks to ensure project milestones and client deadlines are met.
  • Coordinate with project team members to understand project objectives, research requirements, and deliverables.
  • Maintain organized project documentation, research sources, datasets, and analytical materials.
  • Balance multiple assignments and adjust priorities based on project and client needs.
  • Identify questions, data limitations, or potential issues and escalate them to senior project team members as appropriate.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Salary Description
63,500

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