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How much do entry level background investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level background investigator in the United States is $70,123.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the entry level background investigator position?

To thrive as an Entry Level Background Investigator, you need strong attention to detail, analytical thinking skills, and preferably a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with background screening databases, public records systems, and case management software is often required. Exceptional communication, organizational skills, and discretion help candidates excel when gathering sensitive information and reporting findings. These skills and qualities are critical to ensure accurate, thorough investigations and maintain the trust and confidentiality expected by both employers and clients.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an entry level background investigator?

As an Entry Level Background Investigator, your daily tasks will include researching public records, conducting interviews with references, preparing written investigative reports, and verifying information such as employment history, criminal records, or education credentials. You may also interact with clients or team leaders to clarify investigative requirements and coordinate next steps. The position often involves working independently, though you’ll collaborate with internal teams and occasionally external contacts to gather accurate information. This role helps build valuable skills in interviewing, detailed reporting, and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

What is an entry level background investigator?

An Entry Level Background Investigator is responsible for conducting research and interviews to verify individuals' backgrounds for security clearance or employment purposes. They gather information from various sources, including public records, personal references, and subject interviews. The role requires attention to detail, analytical skills, and adherence to legal and confidentiality guidelines. Typically, investigators compile reports summarizing their findings for government agencies or private employers. Training is often provided, and the job may involve both remote and field work.

More about Entry Level Background Investigator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Background Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Background Investigator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Background Investigator jobs? The most popular types of Background Investigator jobs are:
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Entry Level Background Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Background Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,123 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Entry Level Background Investigator - NATIONWIDE

Potomac Management Solutions

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

We're seeking NEW ENTRY LEVEL Federal Background Investigators to join our growing professional team Washington DC area as contract Investigators. Investigators will support national security and suitability investigations, focusing on performing background investigations on behalf of government clients. Potomac Management offers industry-leading reimbursement rates for Background Investigations and supporting casework. We value our Investigators and what they bring to our organization and the mission objectives they help to accomplish.
FULL TIME BACKGROUND INVESTIGATORS WANTED - (1099 status, no benefits. Minimum 20-25 source units per week)
WE WILL COVER YOUR TRAINING 100%* (Must work with Potomac for 1 year after completion of training - Job are nationwide, so any relocation should not affect work)
Minimum Qualifications for Background Investigator:
  • Must successfully complete approved New Investigators Training (7 weeks, 100% paid. 5 weeks daily virtual training, 2 weeks of field training).
  • MUST HAVE AN ACTIVE TS CLEARANCE
  • Must be at least 18 yrs of age and a US Citizen.
  • Ability to work remotely and travel with a reliable vehicle, valid driver's license and clean driving record.
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent (relevant years of experience).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to build rapport with new people.
  • Personal computer and business solutions software skills.
  • Ability to synthesize information, identify key findings and determine conclusions.
  • Ability to identify, understand and apply federal/state/local regulations/laws regarding investigations.

Essential Functions of Background Investigator:
  • Conduct interviews, retrieve records, conduct research, and prepare reports of investigation in compliance with federal standards, all laws, and other required federal agency regulations.
  • Conduct face-to-face interviews with the applicant, neighbors, coworkers, friends, and associates.
  • Complete record searches at law enforcement agencies, courthouses, mental health, financial and educational institutions.
  • Compile information in a clear, concise report that helps determine employment suitability and security clearance eligibility via a standardized reporting format (in accordance with investigative standards).
  • Meet quality, timeliness, and production metrics for all work assigned in a rapid, time-sensitive setting.
  • Interact with team leader and case review officers to ensure thoroughness of investigations.

Additional duties or specific tasks may be assigned

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