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How much do federal background investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 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.
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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, 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 $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Entry Level Background Investigator - Midwest

CACI International, Inc.

Tyler, TX • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Entry Level Background Investigator - Midwest
Job Category: Service Contract Act
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Top Secret
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%
Type of Travel: Local
* * *
At CACI, background investigation is more than research and reports-it's a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of our nation. By joining our team, you'll be part of an organization that values trust, integrity, and professionalism in everything we do. As an industry-leading provider of federal background investigations since 2004, CACI employs full-time and part-time investigators across all 50 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and other U.S. territories.
What You'll Get to Do:
  • Use technology, electronic tools, and multiple systems simultaneously to conduct comprehensive interviews with subjects, employers, associates, references, and other knowledgeable individuals as well as review appropriate records to obtain facts. Resolve all material issues in a case to establish the background, reputation, character, suitability, or qualifications of the subject under investigation. Interviews for this position will be conducted using a variety of methods, including Virtual Teleconference (VTC), phone interviews, and in-person meetings, with VTC as the primary method.
  • Attend a multiweek intensive virtual, online training with additional shadowing and mentorship with an experienced Investigator
  • Potential travel to locations across the U.S. for temporary duty assignments (TDY), typically lasting 2 weeks

You'll Bring These Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree or 4 years of general experience demonstrating progressive responsibility in problem solving, planning and organizing work, and communicating effectively orally and in writing
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a favorable determination based on a T5 Investigation
  • Strong sense of mission in supporting national security initiatives
  • Impeccable work ethic, integrity, and a positive, can-do attitude
  • Ability to navigate and utilize multiple technology systems simultaneously to maintain workflow efficiency and productivity
  • Current driver's license, reliable personal vehicle, and willingness to travel locally dependent on assignment location
  • Home office within reasonable distance to areas workload and equipped with reliable high-speed Internet ($50 monthly internet stipend is provided)
  • Ability to sit, type, stand, or walk for extended periods of time
  • Excellent time management skills and the ability to prioritize effectively
  • Exceptional written and oral communication skills, including the ability to:
    • Communicate complex or sensitive information effectively to individuals or groups
    • Listen attentively to others, respond appropriately to nonverbal cues, and make clear and convincing oral presentations
    • Maintain strong relationships with diverse individuals and handle challenging situations with tact and professionalism
    • Recognizes or uses correct English grammar, punctuation, and spelling; communicates information (for example, facts, ideas, or messages) in a succinct and organized manner; produces written information, which may include technical material that is appropriate for the intended audience

These Qualifications Would Be Nice to Have:
  • Clearance: Active Top Secret Clearance based on a T5

This position is contingent on funding and may not be filled immediately. However, this position is representative of positions within CACI that are consistently available. Individuals who apply may also be considered for other positions at CACI.
What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
This posting is for a position covered by the Service Contract Labor Standards (SCA). The pay and benefits provided for this position will meet or exceed the minimum required amounts detailed in the wage determination issued by the Department of Labor and made applicable to this position, as incorporated into CACI's government contract for the work location.
Since the position can be worked in more than one location, the rate shown is the Minimum Wage for Federal Contractors. The actual rate will be based on contract, location and job classification.
Minimum Required Hourly Wage:
$26.07
There are a host of other factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographical location, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.

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