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Entry Level Federal Background Investigator Jobs

POSITION SUMMARY Conduct federal investigations and prepare reports of investigations in compliance ... individual's background and character, in accordance with agency guidelines and instructions.

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Entry Level Federal Background Investigator information

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$30.5K

$70.1K

$114K

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level federal 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 is an entry level federal background investigator?

An Entry Level Federal Background Investigator is responsible for conducting background checks on individuals seeking security clearances or employment with government agencies. Their duties include interviewing subjects and references, reviewing records, and preparing detailed reports about an individual's suitability for federal positions. These investigators ensure that candidates meet the necessary standards for trustworthiness and reliability required for access to sensitive information or government roles. The job typically involves travel, strict adherence to government guidelines, and strong communication skills. Entry-level positions often provide extensive training for new hires.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level federal background investigator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Federal Background Investigator, you need a bachelor's degree, strong analytical abilities, and attention to detail. Familiarity with investigative software, secure databases, and completion of federal training or certifications such as OPM credentialing are typically required. Excellent communication, discretion, and time management are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure thorough, accurate investigations that uphold national security and meet federal compliance standards.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level federal background investigators, and how can new hires effectively manage them?

Entry-level federal background investigators often face challenges such as managing a high caseload, adapting to strict deadlines, and handling sensitive information with discretion. New hires may also need to quickly develop strong interviewing and report-writing skills while learning to navigate complex legal and procedural requirements. Building strong organizational habits, seeking guidance from experienced colleagues, and actively participating in training programs can help new investigators manage these challenges and succeed in the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Federal Background Investigator vs Entry Level Federal Background Investigator?

AspectEntry Level Federal Background Investigator

Since the comparison is with itself, the differences are minimal. Typically, Entry Level Federal Background Investigators perform background checks, verify credentials, and interview subjects within federal agencies. They usually hold relevant certifications like security clearances and work in government offices or remote settings. Their roles are essential for federal employment screening, and they often search for similar job titles. The main distinction may lie in specific agency requirements or regional responsibilities, but overall, the roles are very similar.

More about Entry Level Federal Background Investigator jobs

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Federal Background Investigator jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Federal Background Investigator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Background Investigator jobs?

The most popular types of Federal Background Investigator jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Federal Background Investigator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Federal Background Investigator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Federal Background Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,123 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Background Investigator: Independent Contractor/1099 (Experienced)

1FORCE

AL โ€ข On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Background Investigator - Independent Contractor/1099
Federal Background Investigations Division
1FORCE is currently seeking to engage with experienced Contractors and federally credentialed Background Investigators to conduct personnel security background investigations in a contractor capacity in support of our client's contracts with the federal government. We have work nationwide and if you currently hold credentials on a federal personnel security background investigations contract (or have held government credentials in the last 2 years), we want to partner to provide immediate, weekly work opportunities.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Complete record searches.
  • Conduct face-to-face interviews to elicit information about applicants seeking federal positions, contract positions or positions within the military.
  • Obtain factual information from a variety of personal and record sources to produce a report of investigation, containing all pertinent facts, of an individual's background and character, in accordance with agency guidelines and instructions.
  • Investigators work from home, set their own schedules, and work independently.
  • Self-motivated, highly independent, and prepared to work non-traditional hours (i.e., evenings and weekends).

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
  • Federally credentialed and experienced investigators will have met the background investigations national training standards and have 12 months or more of consecutive experience performing executive branch investigations.
  • Superior organizational and time management skills.
  • Excellent communication skills in both oral and written formats.
  • Strong computer and typing skills for composing narrative reports of investigation in FWS and utilizing PIPS or other federally supported case management/reporting system.
  • Sufficient E&O liability, car insurance and personal insurance.

**All candidates must be a US Citizen and be able to obtain a TOP SECRET level security clearance.