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

Work Authorization/Security Clearance Employment is contingent upon the successful results of a background check and drug screen. In addition to the completion of a federal background investigation ...

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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 Aug 6, 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 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 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 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.

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 August 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.

Background Investigator (FT Employee) - Albuquerque, NM with Security Clearance

Peraton

Algodones, NM • On-site

$26.07/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 hours ago


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 221 rated it services


Job description

About Peraton 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 solve the most daunting challenges that our customers face. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure. Program Overview RDG (Risk Decision Group) provides nationwide background investigations compliant with national government standards to include support of continuous vetting for over 110 government agencies. About The Role Peraton is seeking to fill a critical role for a full-time background investigator near Albuquerque, NM. Applicants must reside within 25 miles of the city center of Albuquerque. 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 conditionsDesired 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 SCA / Union / Intern Rate or Range $26.07 Details Target Salary Range: The 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. Benefits Statement: Peraton offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, health savings account, short/long term disability, EAP, parental leave, 401(k), paid time off (PTO) for vacation, and company paid holidays. A full listing of available benefits can be viewed at https://www.careers.peraton.com/benefits. Application Statements: The application period for the job is estimated to be 30 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in the role and the Company. During the review of your application, you may be required to participate in an on-camera interview, as well as participate in a process to verify your identity. EEO:Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.

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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