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Contract Investigator Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

POSITION SUMMARY Conduct federal investigations and prepare reports of investigations in compliance ... education, contract requirements. RESPONSIBILITIES * Conduct in-person,one-on-one subject ...

POSITION SUMMARY Conduct federal investigations and prepare reports of investigations in compliance ... and contract requirements. RESPONSIBILITIES * Conduct in-person,one-on-one subject interviews to ...

Employee Relations Investigator

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Employee Relations Investigator The Opportunity: We are seeking a senior employee relations ... as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Investigator information

See Reston, VA salary details

$33.3K

$78.4K

$136.3K

How much do contract investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract investigator in Reston, VA is $78,364.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,600.00 and $102,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract investigator?

Contract investigators are professionals hired, often by government agencies or private companies, to conduct background checks, security clearance investigations, or other fact-finding assignments on a contractual basis. Their primary role is to gather and verify information about individuals, such as employment history, criminal records, and personal references, to determine eligibility for security clearances or employment. These investigators typically work independently, conducting interviews and reviewing documents, then compiling their findings into detailed reports for their clients. Contract investigators must follow strict guidelines and ethical standards to ensure the accuracy and confidentiality of the information they handle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract investigator?

To thrive as a Contract Investigator, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and knowledge of investigative procedures, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and background screening experience. Familiarity with case management systems, federal investigative standards, and sometimes specific certifications like OPM or DCSA credentialing is important. Excellent written communication, discretion, and interpersonal skills help in conducting interviews and compiling thorough reports. These skills are crucial to ensure accurate, ethical investigations that meet compliance and security standards.

What are some common challenges contract investigators face when conducting background checks, and how can they overcome them?

Contract Investigators often encounter challenges such as incomplete records, unresponsive sources, and tight deadlines when conducting background checks. To overcome these obstacles, it's important to maintain strong organizational skills, use a variety of verification methods, and communicate proactively with both clients and references. Building a network of reliable contacts and staying up to date on compliance requirements can also help ensure thorough and accurate investigations. Adaptability and persistence are key traits for success in this role.

What is the difference between Contract Investigator vs Insurance Investigator?

AspectContract InvestigatorInsurance Investigator
Required CredentialsTypically a background in law enforcement, criminal justice, or related fields; sometimes requires licensureOften requires a background in law enforcement, criminal justice, or insurance claims; licensure may be needed
Work EnvironmentFieldwork and office investigations, often on contract basis for private firms or government agenciesPrimarily fieldwork investigating insurance claims, sometimes in office settings
Employer & IndustryPrivate investigation firms, government agencies, legal firmsInsurance companies, third-party claims adjusters, legal firms

Both roles involve investigative work requiring similar credentials and environments. The main difference lies in their focus: Contract Investigators often handle legal or contractual investigations, while Insurance Investigators specialize in assessing insurance claims. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right opportunities in the investigation field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Investigator jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Investigator jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Investigator jobs in Reston, VA?

For Contract Investigator jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Contract Investigator jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Contract Investigator job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Investigator job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,364 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Experienced Background Investigator (NORTHEAST REGION)

CACI International

Reston, VA โ€ข On-site

$48K - $59K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Title: Experienced Background Investigator (NORTHEAST REGION)

Job Category: Service Contract Act

Time Type: Full time

Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Top Secret

Employee Type: Regular

Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%

Type of Travel: Local

At CACI, background investigation is more than research and reports-it's a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of our nation. By joining our team, you'll be part of an organization that values trust, integrity, and professionalism in everything we do. As an industry-leading provider of federal background investigations since 2004, CACI employs full-time and part-time investigators across all 50 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and other U.S. territories.

What You'll Get to Do

  • Use technology, electronic tools, and multiple systems simultaneously to conduct comprehensive interviews with subjects, employers, associates, references, and other knowledgeable individuals as well as review appropriate records to obtain facts. Resolve all material issues in a case to establish the background, reputation, character, suitability, or qualifications of the subject under investigation. Interviews for this position will be conducted using a variety of methods, including Virtual Teleconference (VTC), phone interviews, and in-person meetings, with VTC as the primary method.
  • Complete a one-week intensive virtual, online training program
  • Potential travel to locations across the U.S. for temporary duty assignments (TDY), typically lasting 2 weeks
  • Gain exposure to various investigation contracts, broadening your experience

You'll Bring These Qualifications

  • Customer credential or the ability to obtain based on National Training Standard certification and experience recently conducting background investigations for this customer
  • Proven quality, timeliness, and production metrics
  • Bachelor's Degree or 4 years of general experience demonstrating progressive responsibility in problem solving, planning and organizing work, and communicating effectively orally and in writing
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a favorable determination based on a T5 Investigation
  • Strong sense of mission in supporting national security initiatives
  • Impeccable work ethic, integrity, and a positive, can-do attitude
  • Ability to navigate and utilize multiple technology systems simultaneously to maintain workflow efficiency and productivity
  • Current driver's license, reliable personal vehicle, and willingness to travel locally dependent on assignment location
  • Home office equipped with reliable high-speed Internet ($50 monthly internet stipend is provided)
  • Ability to sit, type, stand, or walk for extended periods of time
  • Excellent time management skills and the ability to prioritizeeffectively
  • Exceptional written and oral communication skills, including the ability to:
  • Communicate complex or sensitive information effectively to individuals or groups
  • Listen attentively to others, respond appropriately to nonverbal cues, and make clear and convincing oral presentations
  • Maintain strong relationships with diverse individuals and handle challenging situations with tact and professionalism
  • Recognizes or uses correct English grammar, punctuation, and spelling; communicates information (for example, facts, ideas, or messages) in a succinct and organized manner; produces written information, which may include technical material that is appropriate for the intended audience

This position is contingent on funding and may not be filled immediately. However, this position is representative of positions within CACI that are consistently available. Individuals who apply may also be considered for other positions at CACI.

What You Can Expect:

A culture of integrity.

At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.

An environment of trust.

CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.

A focus on continuous growth.

Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.

Pay Range:

This posting is for a position covered by the Service Contract Labor Standards (SCA). The pay and benefits provided for this position will meet or exceed the minimum required amounts detailed in the wage determination issued by the Department of Labor and made applicable to this position, as incorporated into CACI's government contract for the work location.

Since the position can be worked in more than one location, the rate shown is the Minimum Wage for Federal Contractors. The actual rate will be based on contract, location and job classification.

Minimum Required Hourly Wage: ?

$26.07

There are a host of other factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographical location, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.

CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.