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Dhs Background Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description 1099 Background Investigator - Top Secret Xcelerate Solutions is seeking a Background ... Candidates with active DHS credentials will be prioritized About Xcelerate Solutions: Founded in ...

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DHS Background Investigator information

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$15

$26

$57

How much do dhs background investigator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for dhs background investigator in the United States is $26.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How can I become a federal background investigator?

To become a federal background investigator, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree, relevant work experience, and must pass a background check themselves. The role often requires strong research, interviewing, and report-writing skills, and applicants may need to complete specific training programs provided by federal agencies. Job openings are posted on government employment sites, and candidates must meet agency-specific requirements and security clearance standards.

Is it hard to get a job with DHS?

Getting a job as a DHS Background Investigator can be competitive due to the thorough screening process, which includes background checks, security clearances, and sometimes polygraph tests. Candidates typically need relevant experience, strong attention to detail, and the ability to pass security requirements, making the hiring process rigorous but attainable for qualified applicants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Dhs Background Investigator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a DHS Background Investigator, you need a strong understanding of investigative procedures, federal regulations, and security clearance processes, typically supported by relevant experience or education in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with specialized databases such as e-QIP, CLEAR, or PIPS, and certifications like NACI or SSBI are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to conduct in-depth interviews help differentiate top candidates in this role. These skills ensure accurate, thorough background checks vital to national security and compliance with federal standards.

What are the common challenges faced by DHS Background Investigators?

DHS Background Investigators often encounter challenges such as managing a large caseload with tight deadlines, navigating complex or sensitive personal histories, and adapting to evolving federal guidelines and policies. Investigators must work both independently when conducting research and collaboratively when coordinating with other agencies or team members. Additionally, maintaining objectivity and confidentiality while building rapport with interview subjects can be demanding but is critical for success. Many investigators find the work rewarding, especially as it plays a direct role in safeguarding national security.

What is a DHS Background Investigator job?

A DHS Background Investigator conducts background checks on individuals applying for security clearances or positions within the Department of Homeland Security. They review personal, financial, and criminal history, verify employment and education records, and interview references. Their goal is to ensure candidates meet the required security and trust standards. Investigators must follow strict federal guidelines and maintain confidentiality throughout the process.

How much does a federal background investigator make?

A federal background investigator typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and agency. The role often requires security clearances and background checks, with some positions offering additional benefits and overtime opportunities.

Is it hard to become a background investigator?

Becoming a DHS background investigator typically requires a background check, relevant experience, and sometimes a security clearance, which can involve a thorough review process. The job may also require strong attention to detail, interviewing skills, and knowledge of investigative procedures, but the difficulty varies based on individual qualifications and agency requirements.
What cities are hiring for Dhs Background Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Dhs Background Investigator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Dhs Background Investigator jobs? The most popular types of Dhs Background Investigator jobs are:
What states have the most Dhs Background Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Dhs Background Investigator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Dhs Background Investigator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 68% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,726 per year, or $26.8 per hour.
Experienced DHS Background Investigator - El Centro, CA with Security Clearance

Experienced DHS Background Investigator - El Centro, CA with Security Clearance

Peraton

El Centro, CA • On-site

$25.82 - $45.81/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Peraton rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 207 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. About The Role Peraton is seeking to fill a critical role for a full-time experienced background investigator near El Centro, CA specifically for our Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Background Investigations. Applicants must reside within 30 miles of El Centro. What you'll do: The Investigator will be responsible for the following but not limited to: * 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, and friends
* 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
* Interact professionally with others, write for long periods of time, meet expectations for attendance and punctuality, and be able to pay attention to details while conducting field work
* Maintain a 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 conditions
Qualifications Required qualifications: * Must be CURRENTLY CREDENTIALED on DHS
* 4 years of general work experience and HS Diploma
* Must hold active federal background investigation with a T5 adjudication or Top Secret eligible clearance
* U.S. citizenship
* Active NTS (National Training Standards) certification from NIT (New Investigator Training)
* Home office required
* Temporary Duty Assignments (TDY)/remote travel ranging from 14 - 30 days away from home per TDY may be required * 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 sitting.
* 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 insuranceDesired 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 skillsRelocation assistance is not available for this position. #EXPBI #RDG SCA / Union / Intern Rate or Range $25.82 - 45.81 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