ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Federal Government Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Xcelerate Solutions

1099 Background Investigator

... the federal government. Focused on our Nation's security, BIs are required to determine an ... The investigations often involve personal and intimate details of an individual's life and must be ...

Cherokee Federal

Financial Investigator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $98K/yr

Analyze financial and other records to assist government attorneys, agents, and agencies in ... Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal. * Past applicable job experience may ...

Cherokee Federal

Civil Investigator

Laredo, TX · On-site

$90K - $101K/yr

Civil Investigator Civil Investigator will perform professional investigations to clarity/verify ... government's mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CSS, visit cherokee-federal.com ...

Arcfield

Principal Investigator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

... Investigator (PI) to lead the design, integration, and testing of innovative Range Safety solutions ... federal government contractor. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsFederal Government Investigator Jobs

Federal Government Investigator information

See salary details

$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do federal government investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal government 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 government investigator?

Federal Government Investigators are professionals employed by various federal agencies to conduct investigations related to law enforcement, national security, fraud, compliance, and other specialized areas. Their responsibilities typically include gathering facts, interviewing witnesses, collecting and analyzing evidence, and preparing detailed reports. These investigators work for agencies such as the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, or the Office of Inspector General. Their work helps ensure laws and regulations are followed and supports the federal government's mission to protect the public interest.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal government investigator?

To thrive as a Federal Government Investigator, you generally need a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field, strong analytical skills, and knowledge of investigative procedures. Familiarity with case management systems, forensic tools, and sometimes specialized certifications like those in fraud examination or security clearance are typical requirements. Attention to detail, ethical judgment, and strong communication skills set outstanding investigators apart. These competencies are crucial to ensure thorough, lawful investigations and effective reporting in high-stakes government environments.

What are some common challenges faced by federal government investigators in their daily work?

Federal Government Investigators often encounter challenges such as managing heavy caseloads, navigating complex regulations, and working with sensitive or confidential information. Additionally, the role may require conducting interviews or fieldwork in unpredictable environments, which can be demanding. Effective collaboration with other agencies and maintaining clear documentation are essential for success, and adaptability is key as priorities and case details may shift quickly.

How much do federal government investigators make?

Federal government investigators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of clearance. Entry-level positions often start around $50,000, with salaries increasing for specialized skills and senior roles. Many investigators also receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

How to become a federal government investigator?

To become a federal government investigator, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field, along with relevant work experience. Many agencies require passing written exams, background checks, and physical fitness tests, and some roles may require specialized training or certifications such as those from the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC).
More about Federal Government Investigator jobs

What cities are hiring for Federal Government Investigator jobs?

Cities with the most Federal Government Investigator job openings:

What states have the most Federal Government Investigator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Federal Government Investigator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Federal Government Investigator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Government Investigator jobs are:

Federal Government Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Government 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.

Background Investigator: Independent Contractor/1099 (Experienced)

1FORCE

Owens Cross Roads, AL • Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Background Investigator - Independent Contractor/1099

Federal Background Investigations Division

1FORCE is currently seeking to engage with experienced Contractors and federally credentialed Background Investigators to conduct personnel security background investigations in a contractor capacity in support of our client's contracts with the federal government. We have work nationwide and if you currently hold credentials on a federal personnel security background investigations contract (or have held government credentials in the last 2 years), we want to partner to provide immediate, weekly work opportunities.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Complete record searches.
  • Conduct face-to-face interviews to elicit information about applicants seeking federal positions, contract positions or positions within the military.
  • Obtain factual information from a variety of personal and record sources to produce a report of investigation, containing all pertinent facts, of an individual's background and character, in accordance with agency guidelines and instructions.
  • Investigators work from home, set their own schedules, and work independently.
  • Self-motivated, highly independent, and prepared to work non-traditional hours (i.e., evenings and weekends).

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

  • Federally credentialed and experienced investigators will have met the background investigations national training standards and have 12 months or more of consecutive experience performing executive branch investigations.
  • Superior organizational and time management skills.
  • Excellent communication skills in both oral and written formats.
  • Strong computer and typing skills for composing narrative reports of investigation in FWS and utilizing PIPS or other federally supported case management/reporting system.
  • Sufficient E&O liability, car insurance and personal insurance.

**All candidates must be a US Citizen and be able to obtain a TOP SECRET level security clearance.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Apply