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Contractor Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our multi-disciplinary team includes highly experienced engineers, architects, fire investigators, contractors, and industry experts strategically located across the country to serve a national ...

We are currently looking for Janitorial Independent Contractors to partner with to help fulfill the ... Favorable background investigation results * You can not be a sole proprietor

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Contractor Investigator information

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$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do contractor investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for contractor investigator in the United States is $75,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Contractor Investigators?

Contractor Investigators are professionals hired by government agencies or private companies to conduct background investigations, security clearance checks, or other types of inquiries. They typically work on a contract basis rather than as full-time employees and are responsible for collecting information through interviews, document reviews, and fieldwork. Their findings help organizations make informed decisions about hiring, security clearances, or compliance matters. Contractor Investigators must adhere to strict ethical and legal guidelines during their investigations to ensure accuracy and confidentiality.

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

To thrive as a Contractor Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of investigative techniques, often supported by a relevant degree or law enforcement background. Familiarity with case management systems, background check tools, and compliance regulations is typically required. Excellent written and verbal communication, discretion, and critical thinking are essential soft skills for interviewing subjects and managing sensitive information. These skills ensure thorough, objective investigations and reliable reporting that support organizational compliance and decision-making.

What are some common challenges Contractor Investigators face when conducting background investigations, and how can they be addressed?

Contractor Investigators frequently encounter challenges such as unresponsive sources, incomplete records, and strict deadlines. To address these issues, it’s important to maintain strong organizational skills, use multiple methods to contact sources, and stay up to date with the latest investigative tools and databases. Collaborating closely with other team members and supervisors can also help in overcoming roadblocks and ensuring all necessary information is collected efficiently.

What is the difference between Contractor Investigator vs Private Investigator?

AspectContractor InvestigatorPrivate Investigator
CredentialsMay require security clearances, investigative certifications, or licensing depending on jurisdictionOften requires licensing, background checks, and sometimes specific certifications
Work EnvironmentTypically employed by organizations, government agencies, or as independent contractors for specific casesOperates independently or through agencies, working on personal, legal, or corporate cases
Employer & Industry UsageHired by companies, government, or law firms for investigationsHired by individuals, attorneys, or businesses for private investigations

Contractor Investigators and Private Investigators share similar skills and credentials, often working in investigative environments. However, Contractor Investigators are frequently employed by organizations or government agencies, focusing on specific contractual tasks, while Private Investigators typically work independently or for agencies serving private clients. Both roles require licensing and investigative skills, but their work settings and client bases differ.

More about Contractor Investigator jobs
What cities are hiring for Contractor Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Contractor Investigator job openings:
What states have the most Contractor Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Contractor Investigator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contractor Investigator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 98% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.
Fire Investigator

Contractor

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Keystone Experts & Engineers
Forensic Engineering | Building Consulting | Fire Investigation
When answers matter most, Keystone Experts & Engineers deliver. Keystone specializes in forensic engineering and investigative services for commercial and residential structures, vehicles, and products. Our multi-disciplinary team includes highly experienced engineers, architects, fire investigators, contractors, and industry experts strategically located across the country to serve a national client base.
Keystone provides streamlined, fact-based forensic consulting services designed to meet our clients' needs with clarity, accuracy, and timeliness. Our reports are tailored to client specifications and backed by expert analysis, ensuring clear, defensible conclusions and industry-leading turnaround times.
The Keystone Way is more than a process: it's our commitment to excellence, innovation, integrity, honesty, accuracy, timeliness, and accountability. These values guide every project we undertake. By combining top-tier expertise, open communication, and dependable service, we go beyond industry standards to deliver results our clients can trust.
About the role
Keystone Experts and Engineers are currently seeking Part Time/Subcontracted Fire Investigators to assist with fire origin and cause investigations throughout the United States. Our Fire Investigators are responsible for determining the origin and cause of fire and explosion events within residential, commercial, and industrial sites, as well as vehicles, heavy machinery, farm equipment and recreational vehicles. After a thorough investigation, they clearly convey their findings to our clients, either verbally or in a written report, within industry leading turnaround times.
Qualifications
  • IAAI-CFI certification preferred
  • Able to perform fire investigations and consistently complete reports (verbal and written) according to Keystone's guidelines for quality and timeliness
  • Willing to travel to loss locations throughout the state of residence and surrounding states
  • Must have a Private Investigators license (if state requires one)
  • Possess thorough knowledge of NFPA 921 and NFPA 1033
  • Ability to work independently, with little direct supervision
  • Well organized and able to handle multiple projects simultaneously, in a fast-paced environment
  • High school diploma or equivalent required, with relevant higher education preferred
  • Membership in nationally recognized origin and cause organizations (eg: IAAI or NAFI)
  • Must have the ability and readiness to learn new skills and techniques
  • Experience with Google Docs and other G-Suite applications is a plus