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Federal Background Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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Federal Background Investigator information

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$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do federal background investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 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 are Federal Background Investigators?

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 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.

How can I become a federal background investigator?

To become a federal background investigator, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree, relevant work experience, and must pass a background check. Applying through USAJOBS and completing agency-specific training are also required steps in the hiring process.

Is it hard to become a background investigator?

Becoming a federal background investigator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions preferring or requiring some college education or experience in investigations or security. The process involves passing background checks, completing specialized training, and often requires strong attention to detail and communication skills; the difficulty varies depending on individual qualifications and the agency's standards.

How much does a federal background investigator make?

A federal background investigator typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and agency. The role often requires security clearances and background checks, with some positions offering overtime and benefits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Federal Background Investigator, and why are they important?

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 will disqualify you from a government job?

For a Federal Background Investigator position, disqualifications typically include a felony conviction, recent drug use, dishonorable discharge from the military, or serious criminal conduct. Additionally, issues such as falsifying information on the application or having unresolved financial problems can lead to disqualification. Candidates must also pass a thorough background check and security clearance process.

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 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:
Infographic showing various Federal Background Investigator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 3% 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

Background Investigator

City of Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

$31.75 - $38.12/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


City Of Colorado Springs rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

95th of 835 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description / Position Overview About the Job: We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented professional to conduct comprehensive pre-employment background investigations for both civilian and sworn applicants. This position plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity and standards of our department by ensuring that all candidates meet the qualifications and ethical expectations required for public service. This position is subject to budget required furloughs to be implemented in the 2026 calendar year.

Come explore the possibilities a career with the City of Colorado Springs can offer. We're an accredited pay equity employer. Your starting pay will be within the posted hiring range based on your years of experience and education.

As an employee with the City of Colorado Springs, there is Room to Grow. See the full potential of growth for this position here: 2026 Salary Schedule As a Background Investigator, you will: Perform professionally complete and thorough pre-employment background investigations of civilian and sworn applicants for positions with CSPD and complete all required tasks within the established deadlines. Identify and investigate applicant behaviors, conduct, or circumstances that may impact suitability for sworn employment, and work with the Senior Background Investigator to determine whether further review or a disqualification recommendation is appropriate.

Conduct professional interviews of the candidate, references, and contacts. Verify the accuracy of the information that has been provided and obtained during the investigation. Communicate effectively with candidates during the background process.

Provide a detailed and unbiased written report to include all pertinent information regarding the suitability of the candidate for the civilian position or position of a police officer. Work collaboratively with members of the Background Section and other Human Resources personnel, as well as outside agencies. Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of modern office procedures, methods, and equipment, including computers and supporting software (Microsoft Office Suite) Knowledge of investigative processes and procedures Ability to prioritize, multitask and maintain a detailed schedule with limited supervision. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing Knowledge and ability to access and interpret financial, criminal, employment and educational records Knowledge of federal and state employment laws regarding pre-employment background investigations including FCRA Minimum Qualifications Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade (high school diploma or GED). Three years of full-time, professional experience in a related field.

Preferred experience in a law enforcement or public sector environment. Possess or obtain upon hire, a valid, non-probationary Colorado driver's license not subject to restriction related to alcohol and/or drug violations or pending charges. Possess or obtain within three months of hire: National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Certification and Colorado Crime Information Center (CCIC) Certification.

One year of relevant work experience may be substituted for one year of required education (OR) one year of academic coursework specifically related to this position beyond the minimum requirement may be substituted for one year of required professional experience. Preferred Qualifications Computer based investigative skills experience. One year of experience with a law enforcement agency.

Experience in the public sector. Experience with pre-employment background investigations. Additional Information Please contact CSPD Human Resources at cspdhiring@coloradosprings.gov for any questions about this position

Pre-employment Requirements: The job offer will be contingent upon successful completion of an extensive background investigation, to include a polygraph examination, extensive background check, fingerprinting, criminal history check, and other pre-employment assessments. The background investigation process commonly takes 6-8 weeks to complete. Applicants that have used marijuana or CBD products within 3 months from the date of their application submission will not be eligible for hire.

More information about the Colorado Springs Police Department's Marijuana Use Policy can be found here. Equal Opportunity Employer The City of Colorado Springs is committed to a welcoming culture that values our employees' unique individual qualities and fosters a welcoming environment where people want to be The City of Colorado Springs offers additional compensation depending on the position, area of assignment, and specific job assignments, including shift differential, pay differential, acting or lead, special assignment, hazard pay, longevity, cell phone allowance, uniform allowance, relocation, awards, standby, call out, compensatory time off, tuition, overtime, extra duty, incentive, holiday premium, proficiency, and vacation sell back. NOTE: This job announcement is not intended to include a complete listing of all responsibilities, knowledge, skills, and abilities associated with the position.

The City does not sponsor applicants for work visas of any kind (including but not limited to F-1, H-1B or TN visas). Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Apply to Join Our Team Please visit the City of Colorado Springs Careers page and review our opportunities.

Click on Apply button to complete an online application for any position of interest. All job applicants will need to create a new login and online application (unless you already have a Government Jobs user ID and password). Completing your application in full, including the entire work experience section, will assist Human Resources in the applicant screening process.

Your application may not be considered if all of the information requested for each employer you list is not provided. Applicants may redact information from their resumes, certifications, transcripts, or any other additional application materials that identify the applicant's age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

We encourage candidates with out-of-state credentials to inquire about expedited processing of Colorado licensing with the Colorado Occupational Credential Portability Program. More information can be found at the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies Licensing Portability page Our Government Jobs application system does not allow you to edit your application after it has been submitted for a position. If you want to make changes, you may submit another application prior to the position's closing date and time listed in the job posting.

HR will review the last application you submit for a position. The City's job classifications, including physical demands and descriptions, can be found on the Colorado Springs Class Specifications page You can view the status of your application on the City of Colorado Springs Careers page. To be notified of future career opportunities sign up for job alerts on the Job Alerts page.


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