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Full Time Federal Background Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Durango, CO

Background Investigator

Durango, CO · On-site

$21.81 - $30.54/hr

Durango, CO Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 2026-00172 Department: Police Division: Police ... Description As a Background Investigator with the Durango Police Department, you'll conduct ...

City of Durango

Background Investigator

Durango, CO · On-site

$21.81 - $30.54/hr

Description As a Background Investigator with the Durango Police Department, you'll conduct ... than 400 full-time and 300 part-time and seasonal employees across 15 departments, all working ...

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Full Time Federal Background Investigator information

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$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do full time federal background investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time 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 full time federal background investigator?

Full Time Federal Background Investigators are professionals who conduct thorough investigations into individuals’ backgrounds on behalf of federal agencies. Their primary role is to verify information provided by applicants seeking federal employment, security clearances, or access to sensitive information. They gather data through interviews, record checks, and fieldwork to ensure candidates meet the required standards of trustworthiness and reliability. These investigators play a critical role in national security by helping determine whether individuals pose a risk to government operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time federal background investigator?

To thrive as a Full Time Federal Background Investigator, you need strong investigative skills, attention to detail, and typically a bachelor's degree in a related field, along with eligibility for federal security clearance. Familiarity with case management systems, government databases, and secure communication tools is essential. Excellent interpersonal skills, discretion, and written communication abilities help investigators build rapport and accurately document sensitive findings. These skills and qualities are crucial for conducting thorough, unbiased investigations that support national security and organizational integrity.

What are some common challenges faced by full time federal background investigators, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Full-time federal background investigators often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines, handling sensitive or confidential information, and conducting interviews with individuals who may be uncooperative or difficult to locate. New hires can prepare by developing strong organizational skills, learning effective interview techniques, and staying up-to-date on federal policies and investigative procedures. Building resilience and adaptability is also important, as the role frequently involves working independently in the field and balancing multiple cases at once.

What is the difference between Full Time Federal Background Investigator vs Contract Federal Background Investigator?

AspectFull Time Federal Background InvestigatorContract Federal Background Investigator
CredentialsTypically requires security clearance, background check, and relevant experienceSimilar credentials, often with less emphasis on security clearance
Work EnvironmentEmployed by federal agency, consistent hours, office and field workContract basis, variable hours, often field-based
Employer & IndustryFederal government, intelligence, or security agenciesPrivate contracting firms working for government agencies

Full Time Federal Background Investigators are employed directly by federal agencies, offering stable employment, benefits, and consistent work environments. Contract Federal Background Investigators work on a contractual basis, often with flexible hours and varied assignments. Both roles require similar credentials, but employment type influences job stability and benefits.

How to become a full time federal background investigator?

To become a full-time federal background investigator, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree, relevant work experience, and must pass a background check. They often undergo specialized training and may need to obtain security clearances depending on the agency. Strong communication, research skills, and attention to detail are essential for success in this role.

What cities are hiring for Full Time Federal Background Investigator jobs?

Cities with the most Full Time 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 Full Time Federal Background Investigator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Full Time Federal Background Investigator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Full Time Federal Background Investigator jobs?

For Full Time Federal Background Investigator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Full Time Federal Background Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time 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.

Background Investigator

Warm Springs, OR • On-site

Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
See more jobs at Confederated Tribes of Warm Springsexternal

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Independently complete comprehensive background investigations and conduct interviews with gaming license applicants. Prepare and maintain confidential licensing files for employees and applicants. Maintain strict confidentiality at all times. 

Requirements
Ability to network with tribal, state, and federal agencies. Knowledge and understanding of applicable gaming laws or regulations. The T/S compact, NICG regulations. Knowledge of the finger print process and equipment. Obtain a gaming license and pass a background investigation. Minimum of a associates degree in criminal justice or law enforcement or at least five years of law enforcement experience. Must have one year of police investigative experience. Professional communication skills written and verbal. Personal computer skills, Microsoft applications, operating digital and electronic equipment.