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Trainee Background Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FIRE INVESTIGATOR

Concord, NH · On-site

$31.03 - $41.77/hr

... undergo comprehensive background investigation, polygraph examination, and psychological ... An employee in trainee status shall meet the minimum qualifications within the period of time ...

AGENCY INVESTIGATOR

Concord, NH · On-site

$25.40 - $34.14/hr

An employee in trainee status shall meet the minimum qualifications within the period of time ... Conducts background investigations to aid in the selection process for new hires and for ...

Police Officer Trainee If you are interested in a career in law enforcement, there is an ... Background Investigation: All appointments to this position are subject to a fingerprint check ...

Watermark Technician Trainee

Dalton, MA · On-site

$27.20 - $37.98/hr

The background investigation process conducted by Crane and our U.S. Government Agency customers is very thorough. Therefore, it is imperative that applicants exercise candor and honesty when ...

Watermark Technician Trainee

Dalton, GA · On-site

$27.20 - $37.98/hr

The background investigation process conducted by Crane and our U.S. Government Agency customers is very thorough. Therefore, it is imperative that applicants exercise candor and honesty when ...

Watermark Technician Trainee

Dalton, MA · On-site

$27.20 - $37.98/hr

The background investigation process conducted by Crane and our U.S. Government Agency customers is very thorough. Therefore, it is imperative that applicants exercise candor and honesty when ...

Police Officer Trainee

Lakeport, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.89/hr

Finalists then must successfully pass a thorough background investigation, medical, polygraph, and ... Police Officer Trainees receive retirement benefits under the Public Employee Retirement System ...

Police Officer Trainee

Lakeport, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.89/hr

Finalists then must successfully pass a thorough background investigation, medical, polygraph, and ... Police Officer Trainees receive retirement benefits under the Public Employee Retirement System ...

Police Officer Trainee

Lakeport, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.89/hr

Finalists then must successfully pass a thorough background investigation, medical, polygraph, and ... Police Officer Trainees receive retirement benefits under the Public Employee Retirement System ...

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Trainee Background Investigator information

See salary details

$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do trainee background investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee 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 trainee background investigator?

Trainee background investigators are entry-level professionals who assist with conducting background checks and investigations, often for government agencies or security clearance purposes. They typically work under the supervision of experienced investigators while learning how to gather, verify, and analyze information about individuals’ histories, including employment, education, criminal records, and personal references. Their work ensures that individuals meet the required standards for sensitive positions or security clearances. Trainees receive training in investigative techniques, report writing, and privacy laws to prepare them for full investigator roles. The position often serves as a stepping stone to more advanced investigative careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee background investigator?

To thrive as a Trainee Background Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as criminal justice or security studies. Familiarity with case management systems, investigative databases, and sometimes federal guidelines or certifications is typical. Excellent communication, discretion, and critical thinking are vital soft skills for conducting interviews and handling sensitive information. These abilities are crucial for ensuring thorough, accurate investigations and maintaining trust and legal compliance throughout the process.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee background investigators and how are they typically supported in overcoming them?

Trainee Background Investigators often encounter challenges such as managing strict deadlines, handling sensitive or confidential information, and conducting thorough interviews with individuals who may be reluctant to share details. To help overcome these obstacles, trainees are usually paired with experienced mentors, receive comprehensive training on investigative techniques, and participate in regular team briefings. Open communication within the team and access to resources, such as legal guidelines and investigative databases, further support trainees in managing their workload and developing strong investigative skills.

What is the difference between Trainee Background Investigator vs Background Investigator?

AspectTrainee Background InvestigatorBackground Investigator
CertificationsTypically none required initially; may need security clearancesOften requires security clearances and background check certifications
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised investigationsIndependent investigations in various settings
Employer UsageEntry-level, training phase in security or investigative agenciesFull investigative role in security, government, or private sectors

The main difference is that a Trainee Background Investigator is in training and supervised, focusing on learning investigative procedures, while a Background Investigator is fully qualified to conduct independent background checks and investigations.

How to get started as a trainee background investigator?

To become a trainee background investigator, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete employer-specific training. Familiarity with investigative techniques, attention to detail, and sometimes security clearance are also important for starting in this role.
More about Trainee Background Investigator jobs

What cities are hiring for Trainee Background Investigator jobs?

Cities with the most Trainee Background Investigator job openings:

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

The most popular types of Background Investigator jobs are:

What states have the most Trainee Background Investigator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Trainee Background Investigator jobs include:

$31.03 - $41.77/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


State Of New Hampshire rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 50 rated states


Job description

Stateof New Hampshire Job Posting
Department of Safety
Division of Fire Safety
Bureau of Investigations
33 Hazen Drive
Concord NH 03305
Fire Investigator
Position#43376
$31.03/hour - $41.77/hour
*See total compensation information at the bottom of announcement.
The State of New Hampshire, Department of Safety, Division of Fire Safety, has a full-time vacancy for a Fire Investigator, SOC Title 33-3020 DETECTIVES-P2 located in Concord NH. This position has a 40 hour work week and is considered non-exempt.
Summary:
Detailed Description: Performs skilled technical and investigative duties concerned with the origin and cause of fires, building collapses, and carbon monoxide releases. Conducts criminal investigations and acts as a Peace Officer as authorized by RSA 21-P:4 and RSA Chapter 594. Conducts inspections as they relate to current RSAs and fire and building codes.
YOUR EXPERIENCE COUNTS: Each additional year of approved formal education may be substituted for one year of required work experience and/or each additional year of approved work experience may be substituted for one year of required formal education.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education/Experience:
Education: Associate's degree or its equivalent with major study in a fire science or criminal justice or related field. Each additional year of approved formal education may be substituted for one year of required work experience.
Experience: Five years of experience conducting fire inspections and fire investigations OR five years of experience as a law enforcement officer, to include experience investigating criminal matters, collecting evidence, presenting courtroom testimony, conducting interviews and interrogating witnesses.
License/Certification:
Valid driver's license
Other Requirements:
1. Must successfully participate in a physical agility test administered by the NH Police Standards and Training Council, unless currently certified as a NH full-time police officer. This test is designed to measure ability to perform essential job functions which are physically demanding tasks encountered in job performance.
2. Must undergo comprehensive background investigation, polygraph examination, and psychological examination. Must have a record free of serious offenses to be eligible for appointment.
3. After conditional offer of appointment has been made, must pass a comprehensive medical examination. Candidate will be subject to unannounced drug testing at any point during the selection process. No physical conditions can exist prohibiting appointee from performing the duties and responsibilities of the job.
4. Must be willing to accept employment anywhere in the State of New Hampshire
Trainee Option:
Not applicable
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Possession of full-time police officer certification or full-time firefighter certification strongly preferred
AFTER-HIRE REQUIREMENTS
1. Must possess a valid New Hampshire driver's license in compliance with timelines required by New Hampshire statutes governing driver's licenses and registration, and within 12 months of hire
2. Must obtain full-time police officer certification within the time frame established by the NH Police Standards and Training Council, no more than 12 months after hire, and maintain throughout tenure of service
3. Must obtain full-time firefighter certification issued by the NH Fire Standards and Training Commission within 12 months of hire, and maintain throughout tenure of service
CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
In-Band Advancement Available: ☐ Yes ☒ No
Broad Group Level Advancement Available: ☐ Yes ☒ No
DISCLAIMERS:
The supplemental job description lists the essential functions of the position and is not intended to include every job duty and responsibility specific to the position. An employee may be required to perform other related duties not listed on the supplemental job description provided that such duties are characteristic of that job title.
The work of an employee in trainee status in this position shall be overseen by a fully qualified individual. An employee in trainee status shall meet the minimum qualifications within the period of time specified on the SJD, not to exceed one year of being hired into this position.
Responsibilities:
Investigates the origin and cause of fires, explosions, building collapses, and releases of carbon monoxide (other than from a motor vehicle) as required, to include any death resulting there from and submits detailed written reports accordingly.
Acts as lead investigator exercising general field supervisory duties as delegated by superiors in major case investigations, by overseeing the performance of all subordinates assigned to ensure compliance with Division policies and procedures.
Assists Division personnel as well as other federal, state and local agencies with investigations involving violations of the state fire code and/or criminal code.
Utilizes specialized knowledge of rules, regulations, procedures and laws as a means of providing direction to division staff in the discharge of their responsibilities.
Interfaces with the public, media, businesses, federal, state and local officials, providing positive public relations, education, training and guidance.
Facilitates the judicial process by maintaining an effective liaison with federal, state and local prosecutors. Provides expert witness testimony related to the fire investigation at criminal trials and in civil litigation cases.
Interviews complainants and witnesses and interrogates suspects for the purpose of obtaining evidence and/or admission of guilt.
Responds to Hazardous Materials incidents to coordinate state agency response, and to assume control at the request of the fire officer in charge or when in the best interest of public safety in accordance with RSA 154:7 (k).
For further information please contact Brian Allard, Assistant Director/Deputy Fire Marshal, at brian.h.allard@dos.nh.gov or 603-223-4289.
*TOTAL COMPENSATION INFORMATION
The State of NH total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits, including:
HMO or POS Medical and Prescription Drug Benefits:
The actual value of State-paid health benefits and the amount of employee health benefit contributions may vary depending on the type of plan selected and the bargaining unit with which a position is associated.
See this link for details on State-paid health benefits:
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/benefits.aspx
Value of State's share of Employee's Retirement: 30.95% of pay
Other Benefits:
*Dental Plan at minimal cost for employees and their families ($500-$1800 value)
* Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
*State defined benefit retirement plan and Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan
*Work/life balance flexible schedules, paid holidays and generous leave plan
*$50,000 state-paid life insurance plus additional low-cost group life insurance
*Incentive-based Wellness Program (ability to earn up to $500)
Total Compensation Statement Worksheet:
https://www.das.nh.gov/jobsearch/compensation-calculator.aspx
Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website:
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/documents/BenefitBrochure.pdf
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/index.aspx
EOE
TDD Access: Relay NH1-800-735-2964

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