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Entry Level Investigator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Dewberry

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

... an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Fairfax, VA

$82K - $85K/yr

... an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

American Oversight

Entry-Level Counsel

Washington, DC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... entry-level Counsel to join our team to lead and support high-impact litigation advancing ... Partner with American Oversight's investigations team to design records-driven strategies and shape ...

American Oversight

Entry-Level Counsel

Washington, DC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... entry-level Counsel to join our team to lead and support high-impact litigation advancing ... Partner with American Oversight's investigations team to design records-driven strategies and shape ...

KTA-Tator, Inc.

Entry Level Staff Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

  • Retirement

... Entry Level Staff/Project Engineer positions to support a myriad of clients and exciting projects ... Our services include assisting our clients with field investigations of corrosion phenomena ...

New

KTA-Tator, Inc.

Entry Level Staff Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

  • Retirement

Our services include assisting our clients with field investigations of corrosion phenomena ... Bachelor's degree in engineering or science - required. * Entry level to up to 5 years of ...

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All JobsInvestigator JobsEntry Level Investigator JobsEntry Level Investigator Jobs in Washington

Entry Level Investigator information

See Washington salary details

$36.2K

$85.3K

$148.4K

How much do entry level investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level investigator in Washington is $85,312.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $111,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Investigator vs Private Investigator?

AspectEntry Level InvestigatorPrivate Investigator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some states may require licensingVaries by state; often requires licensing, background checks, and sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, law enforcement support, corporate securityPrivate firms, individual clients, freelance work
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, security firms, corporate securityPrivate investigation agencies, individuals, legal firms
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Investigator vs Private Investigator

Entry Level Investigators typically work in government or corporate settings, often with minimal licensing requirements, focusing on support roles. Private Investigators operate independently or within firms, often requiring licensing and working directly with clients. Both roles involve investigative work but differ mainly in employment setting and licensing requirements.

What is an entry level investigator?

Entry level investigators are professionals who assist in gathering facts, conducting research, and supporting higher-level investigators or law enforcement officers. They often work on background checks, interviews, surveillance, and collecting evidence for various cases such as insurance fraud, private investigations, or legal proceedings. These roles typically require strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and may involve on-the-job training. Entry level investigators help ensure that information collected is accurate and reliable for further processing or decision-making.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level investigators, and how can they effectively overcome them?

Entry level investigators often face challenges such as learning to manage multiple cases simultaneously, adapting to strict documentation protocols, and developing effective interview techniques. Navigating complex legal and ethical guidelines can also be demanding for those new to the field. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, stay organized using case management tools, and participate in regular training sessions to build both technical and interpersonal skills. Building strong communication within the investigative team also fosters collaboration and supports professional growth.

How to get experience as an entry level investigator?

Entry level investigators typically gain experience through internships, volunteer work, or entry-level security or law enforcement positions that develop skills in observation, interviewing, and report writing. Obtaining relevant certifications, such as a private investigator license or security training, can also enhance qualifications and practical knowledge in the field.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a relevant degree in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with case management software, research databases, and sometimes a private investigator license are typically required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and discretion are vital soft skills for interviewing witnesses and handling sensitive information. These skills and qualifications ensure thorough, ethical investigations and effective case resolution.

What are the most commonly searched types of Investigator jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Investigator jobs in Washington are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Investigator jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Investigator job openings:

Entry Level Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Investigator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,312 per year, or $41 per hour.

Entry Level Background Investigator - NATIONWIDE

Potomac Management Solutions

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 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

Apply