ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Background Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Anson McCade

Quantitative Researcher

Manhattan, NY · On-site

Strong quantitative background (Mathematics, Statistics, Econometrics, Financial Engineering, Operations Research, Computer Science, or Physics). * * Proficiency in at least one programming or ...

Colorado State University

Researcher

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$15.16/hr

... research programs in atomic, molecular, and optical physics; condensed matter physics; and high ... Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires) Minimum Qualifications: B.S.

Ceribell, Inc

Clinical Researcher

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Medical Research Background: A strong understanding of the medical research process, including study design, data collection, and scientific publication. Experience managing clinical research ...

New

NEC Labs

MA - Researcher

San Jose, CA · On-site

The Media Analytics team at NEC Labs America is seeking outstanding researchers with a background in computer vision. Candidates must possess an exceptional track record of original research and ...

Microsoft

Senior Security Researcher

Redmond, WA · On-site

... background and Microsoft Cloud background check upon hire/transfer and every two years thereafter. Preferred : • Doctorate in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Computer Security, or ...

NEC Labs

DSSS - Researcher

Princeton, NJ

Our group is seeking researchers with expertise in AI and data-driven analytics Ideal candidates should have a strong background in developing scalable algorithms and designing innovative AI ...

Microsoft

Senior Security Researcher

Redmond, WA · On-site

Microsoft Cloud Background Check: * This position will be required to pass the Microsoft background ... Security Research IC4 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $119,800 ...

Penn State University

Researcher

University Park, PA · On-site

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of ... research, and service mission. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBackground Researcher Jobs

Background Researcher information

See salary details

$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do background researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for background researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Background Researcher, and why are they important?

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.
More about Background Researcher jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Background Researcher jobs? The most popular types of Background Researcher jobs are:
What states have the most Background Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Background Researcher jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Background Researcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Background Researcher jobs are:
Background Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Researcher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 70% In-person, 10% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Postbaccalaureate Researcher

St Olaf College

Northfield, MN • On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description


Position Title: Postbaccalaureate Researcher.
Department: Physics.
Classification: Non-Exempt.
FTE: 1.0.
Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work schedule is Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm.
Salary Range: $21 - $23.
Position Overview:
The Physics Department at St. Olaf College invites applications for a two-month position of Postbaccalaureate Researcher beginning July 2026 (negotiable). The candidate will work to develop scientific expertise in applications of quantum computing to theoretical nuclear physics. The job will involve close collaborations with undergraduate students already working on related research questions.
The candidate should have a Bachelor of Arts (preferably in Physics) and interest in physics and mathematics. The ideal candidate will be familiar with quantum mechanics and linear algebra (preferably also Dirac Notation).
Essential Job Duties:
  • Scientific Research.
    • Conduct scientific research on quantum computing under supervision.
    • Communicate findings and discuss challenges and future pathways .
    • Travel to Brookhaven National Laboratory (Upton, NY) to develop an understanding of computational infrastructure.
  • Research Mentorship.
    • Conduct regular research meetings with undergraduate students (Spring semester and summer).
    • Assist students in planning research direction for assigned projects.
  • Support, respect, and commit to embracing diverse backgrounds, values, and points of view to build a strong and inclusive community.
  • Complete and meet deadlines for required training and performance management cycle.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervision Received and Exercised:
  • Reports to the Associate Professor of Physics.
  • This position supervises student workers.

Required Qualifications:
  • Education:
    • Bachelor of Arts and Sciences.
  • Experience:
    • Programming experience in Python.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Education:
    • Bachelor's degree in physics.
  • Experience:
    • Preferred level of experience or specific experience.
    • Research experience in quantum computing and knowledge of IBM Qiskit.
    • Experience with Dirac Notation.

Prerequisites:
  • Employment in this position is conditioned upon successful completion of a background check which may include: criminal background checks, reference checks, verification of work history, verification of any required academic credentials, licenses, and/or certifications, a motor vehicle check, verification of DOT certification, a credit check, employment eligibility verification, and/or a pre-employment physical. Whether a background check is deemed successfully completed will be at the sole discretion of St. Olaf College. Please note, St. Olaf College reserves the right to conduct periodic background checks at its sole discretion.

Disclaimer:
  • This position may require you to report early, stay late or work different shifts depending on staffing levels. It may also require you to perform all essential job functions whenever needed and during campus emergencies when necessary.
  • This job description is for general information purposes. It is not intended to list all duties and responsibilities of the position. This job description is subject to change at any time by St. Olaf College, with or without prior notice.
  • Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the hire is complete. We accept only online applications.

About Us
Join Our Community - Work at St. Olaf!
Founded in 1874, St. Olaf College is a residential, coeducational liberal arts college with approximately 3,000 students and 800 faculty and staff. The college is located on a picturesque 300-acre campus in Northfield, Minnesota, a vibrant, historic river town of 20,000 located 45 minutes south of culturally rich and diverse Minneapolis and St. Paul.
The college offers an academically rigorous, nationally ranked liberal arts education that fosters the development of the whole person in mind, body, and spirit and emphasizes learning in an inclusive and globally engaged community. We encourage applications from candidates committed to multicultural understanding and the enrichment of our diverse community.
The college offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a 9% retirement match, contributions to eligible employees' health savings accounts, a significant tuition discount (up to a 90% reduction) at ACM, GLCA, and ELCA colleges and universities for employees' children, and generous paid time off. For a full review of the college's benefits, please see the summary of our benefits here: https://wp.stolaf.edu/hr/benefits/
To provide a safe and secure educational environment, St. Olaf College verifies the accuracy of all credentials presented by applicants and conducts a criminal background check on every new hire.
A summary of the Flexible Work Policy for staff: https://wp.stolaf.edu/hr/flexible-work-policy/
A link to our Community and Belonging page: https://wp.stolaf.edu/equity-inclusion/
A virtual campus tour: https://www.stolaf.edu/multimedia/play/?p=483
An overview of Northfield: https://wp.stolaf.edu/admissions/visit/northfield/
An overview of the Twin Cities: https://wp.stolaf.edu/admissions/visit/twincities/
For Staff Application Assistance:
hrstaff@stolaf.edu
507-786-3068
For Faculty Application Assistance:
facultysearch@stolaf.edu
507-786-3356
Nondiscrimination Policy
St. Olaf College does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, creed, national origin, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, marital status, veteran status, or status with regard to public assistance. St. Olaf College prohibits discrimination and harassment based upon these and any other legally protected status in any education program or activity that it operates, including in admissions and employment.
Inquiries about this nondiscrimination policy may be referred to St. Olaf College's Director of Equal Opportunity, the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights, or both. St. Olaf's Director of Equal Opportunity (who serves as the College's Title IX, Title VI, and Section 504 Coordinator) is Pamela McDowell, Tomson Hall, mcdowell@stolaf.edu, (507) 786-3465.

Apply