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Federal Background Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jobtailor

$55 - $90/hr

Experience conducting federal background investigations preferred * Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret eligible clearance * Active federal background investigation with a T5 ...

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Federal Background Investigator information

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$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do federal background investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal background investigator in the United States is $75,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a federal background investigator?

Federal Background Investigators are professionals responsible for conducting thorough investigations into individuals' backgrounds to determine their suitability for federal employment or security clearances. Their work involves interviewing subjects and references, reviewing records, and compiling detailed reports for government agencies. These investigations help ensure that individuals granted access to sensitive information or positions of trust meet strict standards for reliability, character, and trustworthiness.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal background investigator?

To thrive as a Federal Background Investigator, you need a solid understanding of investigative techniques, critical thinking, and a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with specialized databases, case management systems, and compliance with federal guidelines is essential, and some roles may require a security clearance. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively are critical for conducting interviews and compiling accurate reports. These skills ensure thorough, unbiased investigations that maintain the integrity of federal hiring and security processes.

What does a federal background investigator do?

A federal background investigator performs in-depth research on individuals before hiring them to ensure the security and safety of the public. In this role, you work for a government agency and review potential government personnel and contractors. Your investigation responsibilities include following operations policies to verify provided information, interviewing friends and family, obtaining related documents from law enforcement and credit agencies, and providing a summary of your findings. Upon completing your duties, you offer a final recommendation on whether to give clearance or not. You often collaborate with technical specialists to obtain information.

What are some common challenges faced by federal background investigators during the investigation process?

Federal Background Investigators often encounter challenges such as locating and interviewing reluctant or hard-to-find subjects, managing tight deadlines for case completion, and navigating complex or incomplete records. Additionally, they must handle sensitive information with discretion and comply with strict federal guidelines and protocols. Success in this role requires strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills, as well as adaptability to varying work environments and evolving investigative requirements.

What is the difference between Federal Background Investigator vs Federal Security Specialist?

AspectFederal Background InvestigatorFederal Security Specialist
Required CredentialsBackground check experience, security clearanceSecurity clearance, security protocols
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, field investigationsSecurity screening, compliance roles
Employer & IndustryFederal agencies, investigations

Federal Background Investigators focus on conducting background checks and investigations for federal employment or security clearance purposes, often working in the field. Federal Security Specialists handle security screening, ensuring compliance with security protocols within federal agencies. While both roles require security clearance and involve security-related work, investigators primarily gather information, whereas specialists focus on security procedures and compliance.

Is it hard to become a federal background investigator?

Becoming a federal background investigator typically requires meeting specific qualifications such as a relevant educational background, security clearance, and experience in investigations or law enforcement. The process involves passing written exams, background checks, and training, making it competitive but achievable for qualified candidates.
More about Federal Background Investigator jobs

What cities are hiring for Federal Background Investigator jobs?

Cities with the most 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 Federal Background Investigator jobs?

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

What job categories do people searching Federal Background Investigator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Background Investigator jobs are:

Federal Background Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Background Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Background Investigator

Jobtailor

On-site

$55 - $90/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Key responsibilities

  • Conduct in-person background investigations by scheduling and performing face-to-face interviews with subjects, neighbors, employers, friends, and family.

  • Perform record searches at police agencies, courthouses, educational and financial institutions, and medical/mental health facilities, and report all obtained information clearly using a government-issued computer system.

  • Travel daily for in-person investigations, including local and outside-area travel, and work independently while collaborating with a team of Investigators and a Field Manager.

Job description

  • Complete full-time 6–7 week new Investigator training virtually and in person
  • Conduct daily travel for in-person background investigations assessing employment suitability for individuals requiring access to sensitive or classified U.S. Government information
  • Schedule and conduct face-to-face interviews with subjects, neighbors, employers, friends, and family
  • Perform record searches at police agencies, courthouses, educational and financial institutions, and medical/mental health facilities
  • Type and report all obtained information clearly and concisely using a government-issued computer system
  • Work independently while collaborating with a team of Investigators and a Field Manager
Requirements
  • 4 years of general work experience or a bachelor’s degree may be considered
  • Experience conducting federal background investigations preferred
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret eligible clearance
  • Active federal background investigation with a T5 adjudication preferred
  • U.S. citizenship
  • Daily local and outside-area travel as needed
  • Home office required
  • Temporary Duty Assignments/remote travel of 14–30 days away from home per TDY may be required
  • Must reside within 50 miles of McMurray city center
  • Valid driver’s license and full-time use of reliable transportation
  • Sufficient motor vehicle insurance
  • Accurate and efficient typing capabilities; 40+ WPM recommended
  • Ability to work with multiple computer programs concurrently
  • Ability to speak for extended periods and hear sufficiently for in-person and telephone communication
  • Ability to record, read, and transcribe words and numbers accurately
  • Proficient grammar and writing skills
  • Ability to interact professionally, write for long periods, meet attendance and punctuality expectations, and maintain attention to detail
  • High level of confidentiality, ethics, and integrity
  • Professional attire required
  • Ability to lift and move up to 10 pounds, climb stairs, walk extensively, stand for long periods, and drive in adverse or nighttime conditions
Core Competencies

Demonstrates expertise in conducting federal background investigations, including interviewing and record searches, while maintaining high standards of confidentiality and ethics. Proficient in typing and reporting information clearly, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Highest-signal resume keywords
  • Federal Background Investigation Experience
  • Top Secret Eligible Clearance
  • Accurate Typing Skills (40+ WPM)
  • Professional Communication Skills
  • Attention to Detail
ATS Optimization KeywordsHard Skills
  • Background Investigation
  • Record Searches
  • Interviewing Skills
  • Typing Proficiency
  • Data Reporting
  • Computer Program Proficiency
Soft Skills
  • Professionalism
  • Confidentiality
  • Ethics
  • Collaboration
  • Communication
Certifications & Qualifications
  • Top Secret Clearance
Industry Keywords
  • U.S. Government
  • Employment Suitability
  • Sensitive Information
  • Temporary Duty Assignments
  • Federal Regulations
Tools & Technologies
  • Government-Issued Computer System
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