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

... clearance investigation for any questions or corrections that are required. • Ensure investigative scoping items are met, personal identifying data and investigative questionnaire information is ...

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Clearance Investigator information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$30.1K

$70.9K

$123.2K

How much do clearance investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for clearance investigator in Rio Rancho, NM is $70,851.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,400.00 and $92,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clearance investigator?

Clearance Investigators are professionals who conduct background checks and investigations to determine an individual's eligibility for security clearances. They verify information such as employment history, criminal records, financial status, and personal references to assess potential security risks. These investigators work for government agencies or private contractors and play a crucial role in protecting sensitive information by ensuring only trustworthy individuals are granted access to classified material.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clearance investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clearance Investigator, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a background in criminal justice or a related field, often supported by relevant security clearances. Familiarity with investigative databases, background check systems, and secure information management tools is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, discretion, and effective written communication help build trust and ensure thorough, unbiased investigations. These skills are critical for protecting sensitive information, upholding legal standards, and ensuring the integrity of the security clearance process.

What are some common challenges faced by clearance investigators and how can they be addressed?

Clearance Investigators often face challenges such as managing tight deadlines, handling sensitive information securely, and navigating complex regulations. Additionally, conducting thorough interviews and verifying information from diverse sources can be demanding, especially when individuals are uncooperative or records are incomplete. To address these challenges, strong organizational skills, adherence to strict confidentiality protocols, and continuous training on investigative techniques and regulatory updates are essential. Collaborating with experienced team members and leveraging available resources can also help in resolving difficult cases efficiently.

What is the difference between Clearance Investigator vs Background Investigator?

AspectClearance InvestigatorBackground Investigator
CredentialsTypically requires security clearance, background check, and investigative experienceRequires background check, often with security clearance, and investigative skills
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, security clearance offices, federal contractorsBackground screening firms, government agencies, private security
Employer & IndustryFederal government, defense, intelligenceBackground screening companies, federal agencies, private sector

Clearance Investigators and Background Investigators often share similar credentials and work environments, focusing on security and background checks. However, Clearance Investigators specifically handle sensitive security clearance cases for government agencies, whereas Background Investigators conduct broader background checks for employment or security purposes.

How much do clearance investigators make?

Clearance investigators typically earn between $45,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of security clearance. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, certifications, and years of service in government or contractor roles.

How to become a clearance investigator?

To become a clearance investigator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a thorough background check, and often complete specialized training in investigative techniques and security procedures. Relevant skills include attention to detail, strong communication, and knowledge of federal security standards; some positions may require prior law enforcement or intelligence experience.

What do security clearance investigators do?

Security clearance investigators evaluate individuals seeking access to classified information by conducting background checks, interviews, and verifying personal and professional history. They assess trustworthiness, reliability, and loyalty to determine eligibility for security clearance, often working with government agencies and using specialized tools and procedures.

What are popular job titles related to Clearance Investigator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM?

For Clearance Investigator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Clearance Investigator job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,851 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Program Security Specialist with Security Clearance

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

ENSCO
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

$91K - $115K/yr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Position Description Job description
ENSCO Inc is a diverse engineering and technology company that provides engineering, science and advanced technology solutions that guarantee mission success, safety, and security to governments and private industries worldwide. We are seeking an experienced Program Security Specialist to support the Government team to provide support in cradle to grave efforts in areas such as: • Supporting facilities and security functions at the Kirtland AFB location.
• Ensuring that applicable security protocols are followed for visits and daily operations of facility space in support of government customer.
• Communicate changes in security processes or procedures to teams working within the facility.
• Support government team in investigation reports and continuous monitoring efforts.
• Checking visit requests for completeness and accuracy and contacts the Security Manager, Supervisor, points of contact at the serviced units, and/or the individual subject of the background/clearance investigation for any questions or corrections that are required.
• Ensure investigative scoping items are met, personal identifying data and investigative questionnaire information is accurate and complete.
• Ensure all investigative files are available prior to reviewing and rendering a suitability adjudicative/determination in accordance with suitability guidance and guidelines.
• Ensure all systems of record accurately reflect the suitability adjudicative determination.
• Receive, review, and submit requests for personnel clearances for serviced civilian, contractor, and military
• Assist the review of personnel security background investigations and other source documents that determine suitability, fitness, for federal employment, and other credentialing decisions.
• General Services Administration Security Container Custodian in accordance with 18 CFR 3a.61. Qualifications Required
• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field
• 5+ years of experience supporting security, preferably at a Government facility.
• Experience supporting administrative processes and document management within classified environments.
• Experience working effectively with government and contractor personnel.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• MUST HAVE AT A MINIMUM, a DOD or equivalent (DOE) SECRET SECURITY CLEARANCE, FOR WHICH YOU MUST BE A U.S. CITIZEN. Qualifications Desired
• Active TS/SCI Clearance preferred. Required Certifications: None
U.S. Citizenship Required: Yes
Security Clearance Required: Secret
Employment Type: Regular Full-time
Background Check Type: 7 Year Pre-Employment
Drug Screen Required: None
Position Contingent Upon Contract Award: Yes Salary Range $91,500 - $115,000 USD REAL ID Requirement This position may require the ability to access to U.S. federal facilities. In accordance with the Department of Homeland Security’s enforcement of the REAL ID Act, as of May 7, 2025, individuals must present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification or an acceptable alternative to gain entry. For a list of acceptable forms of identification, please click here. Benefits At ENSCO, a positive working environment and a competitive salary are only part of the reason for choosing a career here. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that creates a stimulating and supportive environment where you can thrive - visit ensco.com/careers/benefits to learn more. Export Control and Licensing This position may involve access to technology or technical data that is controlled under U.S. export control laws and regulations and the release of which to a non US person may require an export license from the U.S. Government. Privacy Your data privacy is important to ENSCO. Please click here to view our privacy policy. California residents can click here to view your California privacy rights. EEO Statement ENSCO, Inc. and its wholly owned U.S. subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers– veterans, disability