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Entry Level Background Investigator Jobs in California

Ethos Risk Services

Entry-Level Investigator

Riverside, CA · On-site

$48K - $59K/yr

Our Full-Time Entry-Level Field Investigator position will help launch your career by providing you ... A background check will be conducted, in accordance to the local state law and regulations.

Ethos Risk Services

Entry-Level Investigator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$50K - $61K/yr

Our Full-Time Entry-Level Field Investigator position will help launch your career by providing you ... A background check will be conducted, in accordance to the local state law and regulations.

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All JobsBackground Investigator JobsEntry Level Background Investigator JobsEntry Level Background Investigator Jobs in California

Entry Level Background Investigator information

See California salary details

$30.1K

$69.2K

$112.5K

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

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level background investigator in California is $69,205.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $83,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 most commonly searched types of Background Investigator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Background Investigator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Background Investigator jobs in California?

For Entry Level Background Investigator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Background Investigator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Background Investigator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Background Investigator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Background Investigator job openings:

Entry Level Background Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Background Investigator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,205 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Entry Level Background Investigator - West Coast

CACI International, Inc.

Oakland, CA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Entry Level Background Investigator - West Coast
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.
  • Attend a multiweek intensive virtual, online training with additional shadowing and mentorship with an experienced Investigator
  • Potential travel to locations across the U.S. for temporary duty assignments (TDY), typically lasting 2 weeks

You'll Bring These Qualifications:
  • 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 within reasonable distance to areas workload and 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 prioritize effectively
  • 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

These Qualifications Would Be Nice to Have:
  • Clearance: Active Top-Secret Clearance based on a T5

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.

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