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Federal Background Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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 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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full 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 (FT Employee) - Austin, TX with Security Clearance

Background Investigator (FT Employee) - Austin, TX with Security Clearance

Peraton

Brenham, TX • On-site

$26.07/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Peraton rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 207 rated it services


Job description

About Peraton Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees solve the most daunting challenges that our customers face. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure. Program Overview RDG (Risk Decision Group) provides nationwide background investigations compliant with national government standards to include support of continuous vetting for over 110 government agencies. About The Role Peraton is seeking to fill a critical role for a full-time background investigator near Austin, TX. Applicants must reside within 50 miles of the city center of Austin. What you'll do: The Investigator will be responsible for the following but not limited to:
* Successfully complete a full time, 6-7 week new Investigator training both virtually and in person in order to be certified in the Federal Investigative Standards for government background investigations
* Travel daily when conducting in person background investigations for the purpose of determining employment suitability of persons who require access to sensitive or classified U.S. Government information
* Investigators will schedule and conduct face-to-face interviews throughout their designated area with the subject and their neighbors, employers, friends and family
* Investigators will also perform record searches at police agencies, courthouses, educational and financial institutions, and medical/mental health facilities
* Investigators are required to type and report all obtained information in a clear and concise report on a government issued computer system
* Working independently while also a member of a team of Investigators and with a Field Manager
Qualifications Required Qualifications: * Candidates with 4 years of general work experience or a bachelor's degree may be considered; candidates with 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 is preferred
* U.S. citizenship
* Daily travel required locally and outside of primary work area as needed
* Home office required
* Temporary Duty Assignments (TDY)/remote travel ranging from 14 - 30 days away from home per TDY may be required * Must reside within the stated mileage requirement posted in job description
* A valid driver's license and full time usage of reliable transportation are required. Driving is an essential function of the job and Motor Vehicle Records may be checked as part of the hiring process or at any time during employment
* Required to carry sufficient motor vehicle insurance
* Accurate and efficient typing capabilities (40+ WPM recommended) and ability to work within multiple computer programs concurrently
* Must be able to speak for extended periods of time and hear sufficiently to communicate in person and over the phone; record, read and transcribe words and numbers with a high degree of accuracy
* Proficient grammar and writing skills in order to submit high quality reports with minimal or no errors
* Must be able to interact professionally with others, to write for long periods of time, meet expectations for attendance and punctuality, and able to pay attention to details while conducting fieldwork
* Maintain high level of confidentiality ethics and integrity
* Professional attire required
* Must be able to lift and move up to 10 pounds, climb stairs, walk extensively, endure long periods of standing and drive in adverse and/or night conditionsDesired Qualifications: * Ability to interact with a variety of individuals and personalities professionally and effectively * Ability to work in a fast-paced changing environment under remote supervision
* Excellent organizational, scheduling and prioritization skills
* Proficient writing and communication skills
Relocation assistance is not available for this position. #RDG SCA / Union / Intern Rate or Range $26.07 Details Target Salary Range: The rate / range per hour below represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Benefits Statement: Peraton offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, health savings account, short/long term disability, EAP, parental leave, 401(k), paid time off (PTO) for vacation, and company paid holidays. A full listing of available benefits can be viewed at https://www.careers.peraton.com/benefits. Application Statements: The application period for the job is estimated to be 30 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in the role and the Company. During the review of your application, you may be required to participate in an on-camera interview, as well as participate in a process to verify your identity. 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