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Federal Background Investigators Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jobtailor

$60 - $80/hr

... 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 ...

Peraton

$60 - $80/hr

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

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Federal Background Investigators information

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$30.5K

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How much do federal background investigators jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal background investigators in the United States is $70,123.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Federal Background Investigators vs Federal Security Screeners?

AspectFederal Background InvestigatorsFederal Security Screeners
Required CredentialsBackground check training, security clearance, sometimes certificationsBasic security training, certification often required
Work EnvironmentOffices, government agencies, field investigationsAirports, government buildings, security checkpoints
Employer & IndustryFederal agencies, law enforcement, investigative firmsTransportation security, federal agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Federal Background Investigators focus on conducting detailed background checks for federal employment or security clearance, often working in offices or investigative settings. Federal Security Screeners primarily work at security checkpoints, screening travelers and baggage. While both roles involve security, Background Investigators require more extensive background checks and investigative skills, whereas Screeners focus on immediate security screening at transportation hubs.

How to 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 thorough background check. The role often requires strong investigative skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with security clearance procedures, with some positions requiring specialized training or certifications. Applicants usually apply through federal agency job portals and must meet specific agency requirements.

Is it hard to become a federal background investigator?

Becoming a federal background investigator typically requires meeting specific eligibility criteria, including relevant work experience, security clearance, and passing written exams and interviews. The process can be competitive and involves thorough background checks, but candidates with strong attention to detail and relevant skills can succeed with proper preparation.

What cities are hiring for Federal Background Investigators jobs?

Cities with the most Federal Background Investigators job openings:

What states have the most Federal Background Investigators jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Federal Background Investigators jobs?

For Federal Background Investigators jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Federal Background Investigators jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Background Investigators job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,123 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Background Investigator

On-site

Jobtailor
See more jobs at Jobtailorexternal

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

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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