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Contractor Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position is charged with being a lead investigator, federal contractor compliance program manager, as well as a facilitator for the office's outreach and compliance training efforts. This ...

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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.
Asset Investigator

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

The Contractor shall provide one Asset Investigator to provide investigative support within the  Financial Litigation Unit (FLU). Specific duties shall include the following:

- Assist AUSAs by planning and conducting asset investigations to recover assets to satisfy debts imposed in cases handled by the USAO. Asset investigations for restitution include monies owed to the United States and private victims of crime. Private victims are considered to be individuals, corporations, or other non-Government entities. Typical asset investigations are considered in conjunction with federal and/or state agencies both within and outside the USAO's geographic jurisdiction. These agencies include, without limitation, agencies that engage in the disbursement of direct loans, guaranteed loans, financial contracts, grant programs where financial responsibility is a factor, and general administrative debts such as fines, fees, overpayment, and penalties. The subjects of the investigations may be individuals or corporations.

- Perform a variety of ancillary asset investigation-related services in direct support of financial litigation, such as utilizing electronic databases to identify assets that may be recovered to satisfy debts imposed in cases handled by the USAOs documents and preparing periodic reports on progress of investigations for use by the USAO and Executive Office for United States Attorneys management staff.

- Contact and coordinate with other Government officials and private citizens as required

- Prepare reports of findings for attorney review and use in establishing enforcement action to collect debts owed to the United States.

- Other related duties as assigned and within scope

Employment Type: FULL_TIME