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Trainee Background Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Gardena

Police Trainee

Gardena, CA · On-site

$87K/yr

A Police Trainee is a non-sworn, local government, miscellaneous employee as defined under ... Background Investigation - Qualifying Chief's Oral Interview - Qualifying.

City of Greenville

Police Officer Trainee

Greenville, NC · On-site

$48K/yr

As a Police Officer Trainee, you will be compensated to attend an approved Basic Law Enforcement ... Must undergo an extensive background investigation including, but not limited to, polygraph exam ...

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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.
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Trainee Background Investigator jobs near you

Fingerprint Technician Trainee

Virginia Department of Human Resource Management

Chesterfield, VA • On-site

$46K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Complete training in the Multi-Modal Biometric Identification System (MBIS) to examine, compare, identify, classify, and search fingerprints.

  • File printed and electronic fingerprints and palm prints in the Henry system and Integrated Biometric Workstation (IBW) using MBIS and Archival systems.

  • Assist with providing technical support to local agency personnel on automated fingerprint submissions and fingerprint record requests.

Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

833rd of 857 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Fingerprint Technician Trainee
Job no: 5111561
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: North Chesterfield, Virginia
Categories: Trades and Operations
Title: Fingerprint Technician Trainee DSP03802
State Role Title: Forensic Science Specialist I
Hiring Range: Fingerprint Technician Trainees will start at $46,980.
Pay Band: 3
Agency: Department of State Police
Location: North Chesterfield, Virginia
Agency Website: vsp.virginia.gov
Recruitment Type: Agency Employee Only - A
Job Duties
• Candidates with prior fingerprint training and experience may be hired as Fingerprint Technician II (Forensic Science Specialist I/Fingerprint Technician Senior) and the salary offered will be commensurate with experience.
• Candidates with limited experience are hired as a Forensic Science Specialist/Fingerprint Technician I (pay band 3 - Fingerprint Technician (trainee)). After successful completion of the BRS training curriculum, employees will progress to a Forensic Science Specialist I/Fingerprint Technician II (pay band 3 - Fingerprint Technician Senior level) and will receive a 10% salary increase.
• Experienced candidates who are not placed in a trainee status are not eligible for the 10% salary increase.
This training period may be extended up to six months, and the total training period shall not exceed 18 months.
About the Position:
The Virginia State Police (VSP) is seeking to hire a Fingerprint Technician Trainee in our Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division at our Administrative Headquarters in North Chesterfield, Virginia. The job duties for this position include but are not limited to:
• Successfully complete the Multi-Modal Biometric Identification System [(MBIS) (formerly known as Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS)] training thereby becoming proficient in examining, comparing, identifying, classifying, and searching fingerprints in MBIS.
• Filing both printed and electronic fingerprints and palm prints in the Henry system and Integrated Biometric Workstation (IBW) utilizing MBIS and Archival systems.
• Assisting with providing technical assistance to local agency personnel on automated fingerprint submissions and fingerprint record requests.
About the Agency:
At the Virginia State Police, we are more than just a law enforcement organization - we're a united team of problem-solvers, protectors, and public servants shaping the future of the Commonwealth. Every role here strengthens our mission to preserve life, protect the vulnerable, and enhance safety while upholding civil liberties throughout Virginia.
When you join VSP, your skills create real impact across every community we serve. Our culture is built on being selfless, engaged, and aware, and we succeed through timely, purposeful action; clear communication; personal accountability; and continuous improvement - together.
We prioritize the readiness and well-being of all our people, entrusting decision-making to those closest to the challenge and supporting one another with kind, direct feedback that helps us grow. At VSP, you will find meaningful work, real opportunities for advancement, and a supportive culture grounded in service, purpose, and the belief that we are One Mission. One Team. One VSP.
If you're ready to make a difference and be part of something larger than yourself, your next career starts here.
Minimum Qualifications
Knowledge:
• Knowledge of MS Office applications including Word and Excel.
Skills:
• Skill in the use of Microsoft Office software.
• Demonstrated customer service skills in providing assistance to local agency personnel.
Abilities:
• Ability to participate and successfully complete MBIS training.
• Ability to comprehend and learn fingerprint classification systems.
• Ability to work independently, and as a team member.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to pay close attention to detail in technical and concise work.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions and procedures.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English.
• Requires Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) certification, which requires either United States citizenship or a lawful permanent resident of the United States and eligible for naturalization.
• Graduation from high school or equivalent.
Additional Considerations
• Some knowledge of fingerprint classification and search methodologies using modified Henry system and the Multi-Modal Biometric Identification System (MBIS) preferred.
Special Instructions
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
Elements of the selection process include the screening of application(s); the interviewing of qualified candidate(s), to include pre-employment testing, a presentation and/or a work sample, if applicable; salary negotiation(s) if applicable; a background investigation; and a medical evaluation if applicable. The anticipated duration of the pre-employment process is determined by the successful completion of the above items.
Applications, cover letters and/or resumes shall only be accepted on-line through the PageUp recruitment management system at https://jobs.virginia.gov and must be received by 11:55 P. M. on September 8, 2026. Please limit resumes to four pages and cover letters to one page. Any additional attachments received in excess of this will not be considered.
PageUp provides confirmation of receipt of your application, resume and/or cover letter submitted successfully. Please refer to your PageUp account to check the status of your application for this position. For questions, please contact the Talent Acquisition & Employee Relations Section of the Human Resources Division at professionalemployment@vsp.virginia.gov.
It is the policy of the Department of State Police (the Department) that all aspects of human resource management be conducted without regard to race (or traits historically associated with race including hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists); sex; color; national origin; religion; sexual orientation; gender identity or expression; age; veteran status; political affiliation; disability; genetic information; and pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
This policy shall be adhered to in all aspects of Departmental employment practices. It does not permit the lowering of bona fide job requirements, performance criteria, or qualifications to give preference to any state employee or applicant for state employment based on the above prohibitions.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST
In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.
Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.
Advertised: 01 Sep 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 08 Sep 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
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