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Federal Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Constellis

Experienced Background Investigator

VA

POSITION SUMMARY Conduct federal investigations and prepare reports of investigations in compliance with Federal Investigative Standards, all laws, and other required federal agency regulations. Work ...

Constellis

Experienced Background Investigator

VA

POSITION SUMMARY Conduct federal investigations and prepare reports of investigations in compliance with Federal Investigative Standards, all laws, and other required federal agency regulations. Work ...

Constellis

Experienced Background Investigator

VA

POSITION SUMMARY Conduct federal investigations and prepare reports of investigations in compliance with Federal Investigative Standards, all laws, and other required federal agency regulations. Work ...

SpyCloud

Manager, Federal Sales Engineering

Washington, DC · Remote

$167K - $250K/yr

Prior federal investigator, intelligence community, or DoD background. * Working knowledge of ... FedRAMP, DoD Impact Levels, and the ATO process. * Experience with public sector partner, system ...

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Federal Investigator information

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$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do federal investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal 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 the difference between Federal Investigator vs Customs Agent?

AspectFederal InvestigatorCustoms Agent
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree, background checks, and sometimes specialized trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; training provided by Customs and Border Protection
Work EnvironmentInvestigations in various settings, including offices, field sites, and courtsBorder crossings, ports, airports, and inspection stations
Employer & IndustryFederal agencies like FBI, DEA, or ATFU.S. Customs and Border Protection
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for investigative roles in federal law enforcementCompared for border security and customs enforcement roles

Federal Investigators and Customs Agents both work in federal law enforcement but focus on different areas. Federal Investigators conduct criminal investigations across various agencies, while Customs Agents focus on border security and customs enforcement. Both roles require federal employment, but their work environments, responsibilities, and training differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Federal Investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Federal Investigator, you need strong analytical abilities, investigative experience, and a relevant degree (often in criminal justice or a related field), along with eligibility for federal clearance. Familiarity with case management systems, forensic tools, and evidence-gathering technology is essential, and some roles require specialized certifications like Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) or background in law enforcement. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and ethical judgment help investigators excel when interviewing witnesses and preparing reports. These skills ensure thorough, lawful investigations that support national security and uphold justice.

What is a typical day like for a Federal Investigator, and how do they collaborate with other agencies?

A typical day for a Federal Investigator often involves gathering and analyzing evidence, conducting interviews, preparing detailed reports, and sometimes testifying in court. Collaboration with other agencies—such as local law enforcement, state agencies, or other federal departments—is common, especially on complex or multi-jurisdictional cases. Investigators may participate in task forces or joint operations, requiring strong communication and teamwork skills. Work can be both office-based and field-oriented, depending on the stage and nature of the investigation.

What does a Federal Investigator do?

A Federal Investigator is responsible for conducting investigations on behalf of federal agencies, such as the FBI, DEA, or Department of Homeland Security. Their duties include gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, analyzing records, and preparing detailed reports related to criminal, civil, or administrative cases. They may be involved in investigating fraud, public corruption, security clearances, or other violations of federal law. Federal Investigators often work closely with law enforcement, prosecutors, and other government personnel to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of their investigations.
More about Federal Investigator jobs
What cities are hiring for Federal Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Federal Investigator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Investigator jobs? The most popular types of Federal Investigator jobs are:
What states have the most Federal Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Federal Investigator jobs include:
Federal Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Investigator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 19% 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.
Experienced Background Investigator

Experienced Background Investigator

Constellis

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Constellis rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 108 rated security

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
Conduct federal investigations and prepare reports of investigations in compliance with Federal Investigative Standards, all laws, and other required federal agency regulations. Work cases throughout the geographic area of responsibility and travel to various places of employment, residence and education institutions.
HOURLY RATE
Actual compensation will be determined based on factors including relevant experience, education, and contract requirements.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Conduct in-person, one-on-one subject interviews to obtain factual information about the individual's background and character, in accordance with agency guidelines and instructions.
  • Obtain factual information from a variety of personal and record sources to produce a report of investigation that contains all pertinent facts of an individual's background and character in accordance with agency guidelines and instructions.
  • Travel throughout the geographic area of responsibility to conduct investigations at various places of employment, residence, and education institutions as cases are assigned.
  • Must be willing to travel in and around assigned location within 30-50 miles (or more) as needed
  • Engage in dialogue on a regular basis with managers and representatives at contractor facilities, various U. S. Government organizations, and law enforcement agencies to develop and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships.
  • Adapt to changing situations and environments as they occur and be able to interact with people from all walks of life and socioeconomic levels.
  • Demonstrate strong verbal and written communications skills and exhibit professional demeanor in all situations.
  • Work load based on availability of cases in geographic area.
  • Some voluntary, temporary duty assignments in other areas of the country (typically 2-4 weeks at a time) are possible.
  • Other duties as required.
  • Work is typically based in the investigator's home office as well as in the investigator's personal vehicle traveling to various field locations to conduct interviews. Coverage area varies and could include some extended drives. Work hours vary depending on availability of leads and do not always fall within normal business hours, to include potential weekend hours or third-shift appointments.
  • Work is typically based in the investigator's home office as well as in the investigator's personal vehicle traveling to various field locations to conduct interviews. Coverage area varies and could include some extended drives. Work hours vary depending on availability of leads and do not always fall within normal business hours, to include potential weekend hours or third-shift appointments.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • U.S. Citizenship;
  • H.S. Diploma or equivalent;
  • Minimum of 1 year within the last five (5) years of investigations experience at the federal, state, or local level of government;
  • Must have some Federal Investigator Standards (FIS) Experience;
  • Reliable personal vehicle, valid driver's license, and satisfactory driving record;
  • Willing to travel on temporary duty assignments as needed (by car or plane);
  • Successfully pass all required training;
  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists;
  • Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in oral, written, diagram, or schedule form;
  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations;
  • Ability to write reports and business correspondence;
  • Ability to work in a MS Window based operating environment, including proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Internet and E-mail;
  • Current (within the last 2 years) Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) or active Secret level security clearance based on an SSBI and able to obtain the required security clearance.
  • Requires intermittent standing, writing/typing, walking, sitting, and driving throughout the workday, and may include for multiple hours.
  • Requires intermittent standing, writing/typing, walking, sitting, and driving throughout the workday, and may include for multiple hours.

DESIRED EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:
  • Office of Personnel Management investigator training.
  • Prior background investigations experience supporting government contracts.
  • Associate or Bachelor degree in Criminal Justice or a related field.
  • Current Top Secret clearance.

BENEFITS
Constellis offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflects its commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Disability/Vet

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