ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Remote Background Investigator Jobs in California

USAA

SIU Investigator I

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$77K - $147K/yr

USAA roles may offer remote or hybrid flexibility for active-duty military spouses consistent with ... After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if USAA is concerned about a ...

Alpine Intel

Fire Investigator

Sacramento, CA · Remote

The Fire Investigator is responsible for studying fire and explosion scenes. They will do all the ... Remote Schedule * Competitive Compensation Package * Bonus Opportunity * Career Growth * A Diverse ...

Jacoby & Meyers

Investigator Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$100K/yr

Investigative Attorney Do you want to LOVE where you work, make an impact in your community, and ... Remote Positions About J&M: Jacoby & Meyers was founded in 1972 with the intention of making the ...

Jacoby & Meyers

Investigator Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$100K/yr

Investigative Attorney Do you want to LOVE where you work, make an impact in your community, and ... Remote Positions About J&M: Jacoby & Meyers was founded in 1972 with the intention of making the ...

Frasco Inc

Investigator

San Diego, CA · Remote

$20 - $28/hr

Investigator Job Location : Orange, California Job Type: Part-Time, Billable Hours, Non-exempt Reports To : Regional Manager Compensation: * Hourly Rate: $20 - $28 per hour (Weekly Pay) Commensurate ...

Frasco Inc

Investigator

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$22 - $28/hr

Investigator Job Location : Los Angeles, California Job Type: Full-Time or Part-Time/Flexible Schedule, Billable Hours, Non-exempt * Hourly Rate: $22 - $28 per hour (Weekly Pay) Commensurate with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBackground Investigator JobsRemote Background Investigator JobsRemote Background Investigator Jobs in California

Remote Background Investigator information

See California salary details

$30.1K

$69.2K

$112.5K

How much do remote background investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote background investigator in California is $69,205.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $83,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a remote background investigator?

A Remote Background Investigator is a professional who conducts background checks and investigations from a remote location, rather than working on-site. Their responsibilities typically include verifying employment history, education, criminal records, and other personal or professional details about individuals for employers or government agencies. They utilize online databases, conduct interviews via phone or video calls, and prepare detailed reports on their findings. This role requires strong attention to detail, discretion, and the ability to work independently with confidential information.

What does a remote background investigator do?

A remote background investigator collects information on people, businesses, or organizations. In a corporate or business setting, your responsibilities include performing a background check on employees and verifying their qualifications and references. If you work for a government agency, you investigate employees and contractors who are applying for security clearance. In addition to checking for a police record, you interview an applicant's previous employers, references, and colleagues. If your employer needs, you contact law enforcement or intelligence services to perform your duties. Other background investigators collect information about job applicants from social media or previous employers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote background investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Background Investigator, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a background in criminal justice or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's degree. Familiarity with investigative databases, case management software, and secure communication systems is typically required. Excellent written communication, integrity, and the ability to work independently are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for conducting thorough, accurate investigations while maintaining confidentiality and meeting remote work demands.

What are some common challenges faced by remote background investigators, and how can they be managed?

Remote Background Investigators often contend with challenges such as building rapport and gathering thorough information without face-to-face interactions, managing large caseloads, and ensuring data security when working from various locations. To manage these, strong communication skills, meticulous organization, and adherence to secure digital protocols are essential. Collaborating closely with supervisors and team members via virtual meetings and utilizing case management software can also help investigators stay on track and maintain the quality of their work.

What is the difference between Remote Background Investigator vs Remote Security Specialist?

AspectRemote Background InvestigatorRemote Security Specialist
Required CredentialsBackground check certifications, sometimes security clearancesSecurity certifications, such as CISSP or CISM
Work EnvironmentPrimarily remote, conducting interviews and researchRemote or on-site, focusing on security protocols and monitoring
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by government agencies, contractors, and private firms for background checksEmployed by security firms, corporations, or government for security management

The main difference is that Remote Background Investigators focus on conducting background checks and investigations remotely, while Remote Security Specialists handle security protocols and monitoring. Both roles may require security-related certifications and are often remote, but they serve different functions within the security and background screening industry.

More about Remote Background Investigator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Background Investigator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Background Investigator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Remote Background Investigator jobs in California?

For Remote Background Investigator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Remote Background Investigator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Background Investigator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Remote Background Investigator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Remote Background Investigator job openings:

Remote Background Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Background Investigator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,205 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Entry Level Background Investigator - West Coast

CACI International, Inc.

Oakland, CA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Entry Level Background Investigator - West Coast
Job Category: Service Contract Act
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Top Secret
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%
Type of Travel: Local
* * *
At CACI, background investigation is more than research and reports-it's a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of our nation. By joining our team, you'll be part of an organization that values trust, integrity, and professionalism in everything we do. As an industry-leading provider of federal background investigations since 2004, CACI employs full-time and part-time investigators across all 50 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and other U.S. territories.
What You'll Get to Do:
  • Use technology, electronic tools, and multiple systems simultaneously to conduct comprehensive interviews with subjects, employers, associates, references, and other knowledgeable individuals as well as review appropriate records to obtain facts. Resolve all material issues in a case to establish the background, reputation, character, suitability, or qualifications of the subject under investigation. Interviews for this position will be conducted using a variety of methods, including Virtual Teleconference (VTC), phone interviews, and in-person meetings, with VTC as the primary method.
  • Attend a multiweek intensive virtual, online training with additional shadowing and mentorship with an experienced Investigator
  • Potential travel to locations across the U.S. for temporary duty assignments (TDY), typically lasting 2 weeks

You'll Bring These Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree or 4 years of general experience demonstrating progressive responsibility in problem solving, planning and organizing work, and communicating effectively orally and in writing
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a favorable determination based on a T5 Investigation
  • Strong sense of mission in supporting national security initiatives
  • Impeccable work ethic, integrity, and a positive, can-do attitude
  • Ability to navigate and utilize multiple technology systems simultaneously to maintain workflow efficiency and productivity
  • Current driver's license, reliable personal vehicle, and willingness to travel locally dependent on assignment location
  • Home office within reasonable distance to areas workload and equipped with reliable high-speed Internet ($50 monthly internet stipend is provided)
  • Ability to sit, type, stand, or walk for extended periods of time
  • Excellent time management skills and the ability to prioritize effectively
  • Exceptional written and oral communication skills, including the ability to:
    • Communicate complex or sensitive information effectively to individuals or groups
    • Listen attentively to others, respond appropriately to nonverbal cues, and make clear and convincing oral presentations
    • Maintain strong relationships with diverse individuals and handle challenging situations with tact and professionalism
    • Recognizes or uses correct English grammar, punctuation, and spelling; communicates information (for example, facts, ideas, or messages) in a succinct and organized manner; produces written information, which may include technical material that is appropriate for the intended audience

These Qualifications Would Be Nice to Have:
  • Clearance: Active Top-Secret Clearance based on a T5

This position is contingent on funding and may not be filled immediately. However, this position is representative of positions within CACI that are consistently available. Individuals who apply may also be considered for other positions at CACI.
What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
This posting is for a position covered by the Service Contract Labor Standards (SCA). The pay and benefits provided for this position will meet or exceed the minimum required amounts detailed in the wage determination issued by the Department of Labor and made applicable to this position, as incorporated into CACI's government contract for the work location.
Since the position can be worked in more than one location, the rate shown is the Minimum Wage for Federal Contractors. The actual rate will be based on contract, location and job classification.
Minimum Required Hourly Wage:
$26.07
There are a host of other factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographical location, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.

Apply