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Federal Background Investigator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Due to federal contract security requirements, candidates must be able to successfully pass a federal background investigation to secure and maintain DOE Q security clearance #J-18808-Ljbffr

Physician, MD, DO

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$208K - $250K/yr

... background investigation. * This position has been designated as non-sensitive and requires a ... Cherokee Federal is a military-friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to ...

Package Assembly Tech II

Knightdale, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

... license(s), undergo background investigations or security checks, or meet certain standards ... other federal, state or local protected class. If you'd like more information about your equal ...

Package Assembly Tech II

Knightdale, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

... license(s), undergo background investigations or security checks, or meet certain standards ... other federal, state or local protected class. If you'd like more information about your equal ...

Package Assembly Tech II

Knightdale, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

... license(s), undergo background investigations or security checks, or meet certain standards ... other federal, state or local protected class. If you'd like more information about your equal ...

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Showing results 1-20

Federal Background Investigator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$31.1K

$73.2K

$127.3K

How much do federal background investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal background investigator in Raleigh, NC is $73,217.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $95,700.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Background Investigator jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Federal Background Investigator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Federal Background Investigator jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Federal Background Investigator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Federal Background Investigator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Background Investigator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Federal Background Investigator jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Federal Background Investigator job openings:

Infographic showing various Federal Background Investigator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 82% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,217 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Experienced Background Investigator - Nationwide

Peraton

Cary, NC • On-site

$26.07 - $46.27/hr

Full-time

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


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 226 rated it services


Job description

Experienced Background Investigator

Peraton is seeking a highly qualified and experienced background investigator to join our team in a full-time capacity. In this essential role, you will play a key part in supporting a vital national background investigations (BI) program, providing comprehensive investigative services to a range of federal departments and agencies.

High need areas are a priority. These locations include Las Vegas, NV, Houston, TX, Ft. Drum, NY, Chicago, IL area (specifically Des Plaines, IL), Orlando, FL, Montgomery, AL, Asheville, NC, Del Rio, TX, and Wichita Falls, TX.

Key responsibilities:

  • Conducting interviews with individuals undergoing security clearances, as well as their references, acquaintances, and supervisors.
  • Performing record searches at various institutions, including police departments, courthouses, educational facilities, financial institutions, and medical or mental health organizations.
  • Compiling and reporting detailed, accurate, and concise reports of collected information.
  • Operating independently while also collaborating effectively as part of a team of investigators under the guidance of a Field Manager.
  • Demonstrating professional behavior through effective communication, sustained focus during field work, adherence to attendance and punctuality standards, and the ability to manage extensive writing and detailed-oriented tasks.
  • Upholding a high standard of confidentiality, ethics, and integrity in all aspects of the role.
  • Adhering to professional dress codes during all work-related activities.

Required qualifications:

  • United States citizenship
  • A minimum of one (1) year of federal background investigation experience
  • Must hold an active federal background investigation with T5 adjudication
  • 4 years of general work experience or a bachelor's degree
  • Active NTS (National Training Standards) certification from NIT (New Investigator Training)
  • Ability to meet physical demands, such as lifting and carrying up to 10 pounds, climbing stairs, walking long distances, standing for extended periods, and driving safely in adverse weather or nighttime conditions.
  • Adherence to professional dress code at all times.
  • Access to and ability to work effectively from a home office.
  • Accurate and proficient typing skills, with a recommended speed of 40+ words per minute
  • Possession of a valid driver's license along with full-time access to reliable transportation. Driving is a critical job function, and motor vehicle records may be reviewed as part of the hiring process and throughout employment.
  • Sufficient motor vehicle insurance coverage as required by the organization.
  • Capability to navigate and operate multiple computer programs simultaneously.
  • Strong verbal communication skills to engage in extended conversations and auditory ability to communicate clearly in person and via telephone; capable of accurately transcribing words and numbers.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in grammar and writing, with the ability to produce high-quality, error-free reports.
  • Professional demeanor, with the ability to engage professionally with others, maintain focus on detailed-oriented tasks during fieldwork, and meet expectations for attendance, punctuality, and work performance.
  • Strong commitment to maintaining confidentiality, ethical standards, and personal integrity.
  • Capacity to handle extended periods of both standing and sitting.

Desired qualifications:

  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage professionally and effectively with a diverse range of individuals and personalities.
  • Adaptability and resilience to excel in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with remote supervision.
  • Exceptional organizational abilities, including effective scheduling and prioritization skills to manage competing tasks and deadlines.
  • Proficient written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on clarity and professionalism.
  • Flexibility to participate in Temporary Duty Assignments (TDY) or remote travel, which may require extended periods away from home ranging from 14 to 30 days per assignment.

Relocation assistance is not available for this position.

Target salary range: $26.07 - $46.27

EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.


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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017