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6-10 years of experience
Maintains top secret security clearance through the U.S. Office of Personnel Management
- Awarded Investigator of the Quarter twice for production and completed cases
- Interviewed and researched individuals backgrounds through in-person meetings
- Compiled extensive reports on investigations, 10 to 15 investigations per week
- Analyzed documentation and reported court, financial and education records
- Traveled throughout the U.S. on detail assignments for investigations
0-5 years of experience
Created comprehensive reports on investigated applicants using approved formatted report guidelines.
- Coordinated with security department in releasing guidelines for investigative processing.
- Maintained database of investigated applicants for future reference.
- Maintained productive relationships with credit bureaus, police and law enforcement bureaus.
- Ensured that investigation results are treated with the highest confidentiality.
0-5 years of experience
Processed background investigations through the NYC Department of Investigations (DOI) and the NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS).
- Conducted Criminal History Record Searches, and Child Registry investigations for prospective new hires, temporary workers, and volunteers.
- Monitored and verified credentials, licenses, and education verifications for about 1,000 licensed personnel.
- Assessed and advised the Human Resources Network Deputy Director with all negative criminal backgrounds for potential new hires to reduce legal risks and ensure regulatory compliance.
- Handled and followed up on all arrests for staff of over 2,500 to provide updates to the Office of Inspector General.
6-10 years of experience
Collected and developed information from over 1000 sources; explored significant or promising leads, noted all pertinent facts, and enlarged, extend, cancel, or discontinue investigations consistent with policies, procedures, and instructions contained in the Investigator’s Handbook.
- Proficient in all aspects of investigation and reporting; produced in a 14 month time period 451 quality investigative background reports with a 97% on-time rate and 10.7 days in process.
- Commendable quality of work; 103 reports reviewed for quality resulted in a quality of rating of 96.1% FY12
- Efficiently completes comprehensive background investigation interviews to determine Federal employee suitability
- Evaluates individual’s trustworthiness for: access to classified information; placement in sensitive positions; retention in military service; placement in Federal employment.
0-5 years of experience
Maintained a caseload of 25-30 national security and public trust investigations.
- Interviewed subjects and their associates. Collected information from various sources.
- Managed time and case tasks independently to meet critical deadlines supporting the OPM contract.
- Collaborated with Quality Control on an integrity investigation
- Certified Field Trainer
0-5 years of experience
Investigated insurance fraud nationwide such as; claims for worker’s compensation and disability
- Identified red flags and leads to assign surveillance and pre-text telephone calls
- Gathered information of individual’s real property ownership, employment history, business ownership, court matters, criminal history, past claims, driver’s license, motor vehicle/watercraft ownership, recreational/professional licenses, recreational memberships, current activities, family members, Internet and social media presence
- Submitted requests and analyzed documents such as; financial, courts, medical, police, and EMS
- Prioritized and communicated with colleges case load and deadlines, updated clients on investigation
10+ years of experience
Conducted professionally executed Office of Personnel Management security clearance background investigations from assignment of cases to submission of reports of investigation.
- Consistent fiscal year timeliness ratings from 96% to most recent fiscal year rating of 99.50%.
- Consistent fiscal year quality ratings from 92% to 97%.
- Recognized as USIS Southern Business Unit Investigator of the Year in 2008.
- Promoted to Senior Investigator after twenty six months of hire.
- Called upon on numerous occasions by USIS leadership to train new investigators and provide needed assistance to other investigators.
0-5 years of experience
Researched and conducted confidential security and pre-employment background investigations to assess employment suitability in support of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM)
- Reviewed applicant’s background, financial and criminal history information for inconsistencies
- Interviewed subjects and references in person or by telephone to gather leads, confirm education and military service, determine the accuracy of information, and clarify information discrepancies
- Analyzed findings and prepared and submitted daily reports with appropriate documentation to support applicant recommendations
- Secured and maintained government, OPM, and USIS credentials
- Exceeded customer and internal standards and ensured company and regional goals were met
0-5 years of experience
Interviewed subjects, employers, and associates to elicit information included in 300+ Reports of Investigation (ROIs) for employment suitability.
- Reviewed records to obtain facts needed to establish the background and qualifications of the subject under investigation.
- Maintained strict compliance with established federal standards for determining suitability, while maintaining reporting format and clarity.
- Performed more than 400 record searched at courthouses, education institutions, and financial institutions, to retrieve useful data germane to the investigation.
0-5 years of experience
Performed background investigations for official US government security clearance
- Maintained control of classified materials for the department of energy and the department of defense
- Conducted interviews to determine eligibility to maintain or obtain official security clearances
- Formulated official reports for government adjudication process
0-5 years of experience
OPM Credentialed Investigator.
- Conducted comprehensive interviews with subjects, employers, associates, references, and other knowledgeable individuals.
- Reviewed appropriate records to obtain facts to resolve all material issues in a case.
- Established the background, reputation, character, suitability, and qualifications for investigation subject.
- Documented all information and submitted detailed reports of investigation within a strict timeline.
6-10 years of experience
Developed/implemented department recruiting strategies
- Scheduled testing for potential police recruits
- Coordinated and oversaw physical, written and oral tests, working directly with Human Resources to complete the hiring process
- Performed extensive background investigations on potential recruits
- Served as liaison with applicants, keeping them informed with pertinent information throughout hiring process
- Fielded calls from the media regarding crimes that occurred in the City
- Wrote and forwarded press releases to news agencies
0-5 years of experience
Conducted background investigations in support of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management to determine an applicant’s eligibility and suitability to hold a position of national security or public trust.
- Conducted face-to-face interviews with the applicant and their neighbors, coworkers, friends, and associates.
- Completed record searches at law enforcement agencies, courthouses, and mental health, financial, and educational institutions.
- Compiled information in a clear, concise report on a standardized form to be submitted for adjudication.
10+ years of experience
Conducted personnel background investigations on individuals seeking Public Trust and National Security clearance determinations
- Interviewed various resources and prepared organized concise reports
- Perform record searches at law enforcement agencies, courthouses, mental health, financial and educational institutions
- Knowledgeable and cleared on the following contracts: Office of Personnel Management, Department of Homeland Security (Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement) and Department of Defense
0-5 years of experience
Responsible for the recruiting and background investigations for police officer applicants. In charge of conducting background investigations on police officer applicants in order to determine the best qualified applicants.
- Interim supervisor for five background investigators, and two civilian employees.
- Generated professional reports to summarize an applicant’s qualifications for the command staffs review and approval.
- Conducted pre-employment polygraphs following the American Polygraph Association standards and agency policy.
- Planned and attended of job fairs throughout the Eastern United States.
- Conducted applicant orientations and physical fitness assessments.
6-10 years of experience
- Conducted detailed employment investigations for Human Resources
- Assisted with internal investigations
- Demonstrated great customer service and met departmental objectives
- Participated in the interviewing and training of new hires within the background check unit
- Developed educational training programs for our researchers
- Worked with corporate legal in regards to FCRA compliance
- Excelled as a customer service underwriting representative from 10/96 to 2/98
- Served as a coach’s assistant and trained new hires
0-5 years of experience
Conducted background investigations for the purposes of employment suitability and security clearance determinations
- Conducted face-to-face interviews with subject, neighbors, coworkers, friends and associates
- Performed record searches at law enforcement agencies, courthouses and mental health, financial and educational institutions
- Compiled gathered information and submitted reports on a government computer system
0-5 years of experience
Investigated persons and business establishments applying for credit, employment, insurance, loans, and settlement of claims.
- Examined city directories and public records to verify residence history, convictions and arrests, property ownership, bankruptcies, liens and unpaid taxes of applicant.
- Interviewed applicant on telephone and in person to obtain other financial and personal data to complete report.
- Analyzed information gathered by investigation and prepared reports of findings and recommendations, using computer.
0-5 years of experience
Oversaw a wide range of investigation activities relating to employee candidates and applicants of all levels of authority including doctors, psychologists, nurses, triage staff and administrative personnel.
- Coordinated daily schedules for interviews and appropriate field work done by Investigators.
- Researched and gathered facts about past employment, credit and criminal history; conducted Biometrics and Livescan fingerprinting, and performed all other appropriate screening functions applicable to the qualification or disqualification process.
- Interviewed applicant/candidate references, compiled facts, wrote summary reports, and submitted findings with recommendations to quality or disqualify potential new staff members.
- Trained and supervised new Investigators with an emphasis on ensuring strict adherence to all policies and guidelines.
0-5 years of experience
Collected latent print evidence for laboratory processing
- Packaged, documented, and delivered evidence to laboratory headquarters
- Documented and processed victim’s personal property
- Reviewed completed personal history questionnaires for completeness and accuracy. During hiring process checked against other PHQs for inconsistencies, errors, omissions and falsifications.
- Obtained and reviewed record from State and municipal law enforcement agencies to determine if the applicant is involved in any crimes; obtained and reviewed arrest reports and related documents if necessary
- Interviewed employers, co-workers, neighbors, law enforcement officials, and personal references for the candidate
- Prepared final background investigation packet with a detailed summary of the investigation for presentation to Commissioner and Lieutenants
- Met regularly with applicants and Lieutenants to keep them updated regarding the investigation
0-5 years of experience
Conducted background investigations on individuals that were to receive a Security Clearance (Public Trust or National Security) from the US Government while under contract with the Office of Personnel Management
- Briefed cases; met with subjects to verify accuracy of provided information, obtained testimonies/records from subject’s employers, neighbors, associates, courts and other related sources
- Coordinated with other investigators and reviewers that were working on the case to ensure that full case coverage was obtained
- This position required Top Secret Clearance
0-5 years of experience
Responsible for maintaining/protecting applicant files and guarding Personal Identifiable Identification (PII) according to Federal standards and guidelines.
- Prepared detailed and comprehensive written reports and analysis of findings for submission and review to senior government and contracting officials.
- Compiled and transmitted reports into the Personal Investigations Processing Systems (PIPS).
- Conducted thorough background investigations on persons that required government security clearances.
- Completed complex cases which involved prominent subjects or derogatory information of a highly sensitive nature.
- Responsible for problem solving and communicating effectively orally and writing on a professional level.
- Received extensive briefing and consulted closely with supervisor on the formulation of special interview questions.
- Conducted less complex qualification investigations on candidates for top Federal administrative and executive positions.
- Conducted comprehensive interviews with employers, associates, references and other knowledgeable individuals and reviewed appropriate records to obtain facts needed to resolve all material issues in cases to establish the background, reputation, character, suitability or qualifications of the person under investigation.
6-10 years of experience
Conducted national security background investigations on behalf of the US OPM, DoD, DHS, and intelligence community clients to determine security clearance suitability.
- Conducted comprehensive Subject, residential, education, employment, social reference and physician interviews.
- Locate, review and/or analyze relevant investigative records and documents.
- Home office administrative duties include sending/receiving e-mails and faxes, scheduling appointments, daily SAP timekeeping, supply ordering, scanning, and record maintenance and retention.
- Completions of special projects as assigned by management, to include: Acting Team Lead, New Hire Trainer, Finger Print Pilot Program Team Member, and Case Reviewer.
- Awarded Field Investigator of the Quarter (FY2011 QTR3).
0-5 years of experience
Provided federal government investigations.
- Conducted background investigations for the purpose of employment eligbility.
- Gathered information for individuals who require access to sensitive or classified U.S. Government information.
- Completed record searches. Conduct face-to-face interviews on applicants seeking federal security clearances.
0-5 years of experience
Conducted confidential background investigations of applicants under consideration for hire by the sponsoring Department by gathering, compiling and analyzing relevant facts.
- Reviewed applicants’ SF-86/85P forms for clarity, completeness, discrepancies, etc., in preparation to scheduling background interviews with applicants in compliance with OPM guidelines. Reviewed all case notes, case messages, or case-related reports utilizing OPM’s Personnel Information Processing System (PIPS) prior to scheduling interviews.
- Contacted applicants to schedule background interviews for positions involving access to sensitive compartment information (SCI), classified information, or non-classified information. Interviewed subjects and references in person or by telephone; gathering, compiling and analyzing information relevant to applicants.
- Performed record searches at various institutions, including educational, financial, law enforcement agencies, civil courthouses, and medical/mental health facilities. Assessed data from various databases and information systems to check for inconsistencies related to the applicant’s background, financial information, possible criminal history, etc.
- Coordinated with field supervisor(s) and [company name] review personnel concerning questions/inquiries about casework or reporting procedures.
- Took notation during interviews and typed reports of investigation (ROIs) from data collected utilizing PIPS. Thoroughly reviewed ROIs prior to transmission.
0-5 years of experience
Conduct background investigations for the purpose of determining employment suitability of persons who require access to sensitive or classified U.S. Government information
- Responsible to contact and set up appointment for Face-to-face interview with Subject and neighbors, employers, friends, and family
- Performed record searches policy agencies, courthouses, educational institutions, financial institutions and medical/mental facilities.
- Write detailed reports on cases following strict government rules and regulations
- Top secret security clearance
6-10 years of experience
Performed pre-employment background investigations in accordance with Federal and State Laws.
- Investigated all applicants being considered for employment with a Tenet Healthcare Hospital or facility.
- Review applications for any misleading information or discrepancies to determine the best approach to achieve a more thorough background investigation for each applicant.
- Perform state and federal criminal background searches, credit reports, driving records, verification of educational degrees/certificates, and any state or national license held by applicant.
- Communicated and reported the status for each background search to Human Resource Representatives at each Tenet-owned-facility.
- Created and updated background investigation reports for each applicant and/or volunteer being considered for employment.
- Departmental Auditor – Confidentially audited all vendors to ensure our department was receiving correct information.
- Departmental Ethics Coordinator – Attended meetings with other departmental coordinators of Target 100 Ethics Program to discuss and implement corporate-wide ideas for ethical standards of excellence.
- Train new personnel in the functions, processes and duties of background investigating.
0-5 years of experience
Conducts and reports records searches and investigations which provide comprehensive coverage of basic suitability, loyalty and security
- Conducts comprehensive interviews with employers, associates and references to obtain facts needed to resolve all material issues and to establish background and suitability
- Conducts special interviews designed to afford subjects the opportunity to explain or comment on derogatory or discrepant information
- Responsible for determining the number and selection of witnesses and the approach and line of questioning for each
- Enlarges, extends, cancels and discontinues investigations, consistent with policies, procedures and instructions contained in the Investigator’s handbook
- Records and organizes information obtained and prepares grammatically correct and factual reports according to established format
- Travels within a 100 mile coverage area to obtain the necessary coverage for investigative assignments
0-5 years of experience
Maintain a SSBI/Top Secret clearance while having access to classified information pertaining to national security files, PII, and home/worksite locations
- Prepare concise and informational written reports while adhering to strict security guidelines
- Conduct full scope background investigations including criminal records, employment documentation, primary/secondary testimony, and electronic database information
- Communicate with senior military, civilian, and intelligence community officials pertaining to clearance procedures and policy
- Comprehensive understanding of interagency federal cooperation/ collaboration to include the private sector
- Perform and submit all assigned cases under limited supervision and strict deadlines
- Perform analysis of EQUIP forms including SF-86 and SF-85 for Public Trust, Secret, and Top Secret clearances
0-5 years of experience
- Performed legal research for financial agencies and legal firms
- Retrieved and prepared court dockets, deeds, complaints for client review
- Compiled research on and off-site county and federal, criminal and civil courthouses
- Handled large daily case load of investigations with time sensitive deadlines
- Managed research agents throughout neighboring states; NV, NM, WA, AZ, TX, OR, HI, CO
- Responsible for assessing results and determining if additional action was necessary
- Drafted reports and provided regular and timely communication/status updates to clients
0-5 years of experience
IT Subject Matter Expert. Currently responsible for team of 15+ employees troubleshooting investigative software and technology. Responsible for testing new software roll-out and reporting errors and functional deficiencies.
- Diagnose and document hardware and software problems and operation issues and report them to the computer help team.
- Conducts face-to-face interviews with subject, neighbors, coworkers, friends and associates at various locations including SCIFS.
- Conducts background investigations for different levels of security clearances including Yankee White, Top Secret, Secret etc.
- Performs record searches at law enforcement agencies, courthouses and mental health, financial and educational institutions.
- Compiles all information gathered and delivers accurate reports dictating an individual’s lifestyle, habits and trustworthiness on the OPM Personnel Investigations Processing System and Clearance Verification System.
0-5 years of experience
Conduct a variety of federal background investigations on behalf of OPM.
- Conduct comprehensive one on one interviews with subject’s, references, employers, and neighbors to determine a subject’s background, character, and suitability.
- Draft detailed reports documenting all factual information that was discovered during the investigation in accordance with OPM guidelines.
- Obtain and collate information from a variety of sources.
0-5 years of experience
- Traveled to various locations to complete record searches.
- Conducted face-to-face interviews and gathered information concerning applicants seeking federal security clearances.
- Prepared and submitted reports of investigation.
0-5 years of experience
Reviewed all applications for completion and follow-up on missing information.
- Researched and verified applicant’s background information including address, education history, and professional licenses as applicable, employment history, criminal records, and other areas as needed.
- Determined applicant’s experience level and work ethic by contacting previous employers.
- Contacted other professional and personal references as listed on application.
- Conducted background checks on existing employees within the company.
- Proficient in using Peoplesoft database.
0-5 years of experience
Conducted criminal background checks; verified employment history, and education and professional licenses/certifications of prospective and current employees
- Processed contractor badge applications
- Prepared Human Resource Reports for Government Investigators
- Approved applications and processed new hire paperwork
- Experienced in BAH Investigation Services Programs: Picture Perfect, Sterling, Restricted Party Screening (RPS), PeopleSoft (HRIS), Taleo, Case Management System (CMS), National Student Clearinghouse (NSCH), WebX, The Work Number, and E-Applicant software
0-5 years of experience
On behalf of the US Office of Personnel Management, independently conducts structured interviews with subjects, neighbors, employers, and references, as part of background investigations, for the purpose of employment suitability and security clearance determinations.
- Obtains background information on subjects, by performing record searches at law enforcement agencies, courthouse databases, educational and financial institutions.
- Compiles information gathered during the investigation to submit clear, concise, and factual reports, utilizing a government issued laptop, with 95% accuracy.
- Resolves conflicting and incomplete information provided during interviews, by utilizing effective interviewing skills, and paying close attention to detail.
- Efficiently plans, prioritizes, and executes a full-time caseload, from a home office, while remaining flexible in order to meet set deadlines.
- Conducts clerical and secretarial tasks on a daily basis, to include filing, faxing, record keeping, answering phones, and scheduling appointments.
0-5 years of experience
Conducted security clearance investigations on US military personnel. Worked independently to create reports for adjudication. Managed multiple cases with revolving deadlines.
- Authored and disseminated multiple reports.
- Liaised with agencies in furtherance of investigations.
- Interacted with both civilian and Department of Defense personnel to garner information.
- Discovered and followed investigative leads.
0-5 years of experience
Conduct security and pre-employment background investigations to determine the suitability and qualifications of individuals applying for government positions
- Conducted hundreds of face to face interviews with subject’s and sources to determine the accuracy of information provided on the case papers
- Conduct record checks at law enforcement agencies, courts, educational and military institutions
- Complete daily reporting writing/transmit reports
- Communicate with the Operations Center, District Managers, Team Leaders, and Team members.
- Top Secret clearance and federally issued credentials
6-10 years of experience
- Developed/implemented department recruiting strategies
- Scheduled testing for potential police recruits
- Coordinated and oversaw physical, written and oral tests, working directly with Human Resources to complete the hiring process
- Performed extensive background investigations on potential recruits
- Served as liaison with applicants, keeping them informed with pertinent
- Fielded calls from the media regarding crimes that occurred in the City
- Wrote and forwarded press releases to news agencies
0-5 years of experience
OPM Investigators obtain and report factual information for background investigations that determine employment and security clearance suitability.
- Possess a “can do” attitude, strong work ethic, impeccable integrity, and a passion to support national security initiatives
- Conducting face-to-face interviews with the applicant and their neighbors, coworkers, friends, and associates
- Completing record searches at law enforcement agencies, courthouses, and mental health, financial, and educational institutions
- Compiling information in a clear, concise report on a standardized form
- Meeting quality, timeliness, and production metrics
- Adjudicated favorably for a Top Secret Security Clearance
0-5 years of experience
- Conducted investigations on individuals in the hiring process, verifying provided information and contacting personal references, previous landlords, previous employers, and neighbors.
- Checked for civil legal actions involving individuals as well as criminal history / police reports; conducted interviews with job applicants in their homes.
- Set up appointments with restaurant and store employees involved in the service / sale of alcoholic beverages to issue alcohol permits and city photo identification cards.
- Operated computer fingerprint scanner in performing background checks.
0-5 years of experience
Wrote Successful completion on first attempt of Government Background Investigator course in 2011.
- Minimal supervision working independently in the field completing case assignments.
- Set weekly scheduling of subject interviews and record checks at employment, residence, and education facilities.
- Wrote Finalize investigations meeting demanding closure dates and quality.
0-5 years of experience
Compile and complete background investigations on applicants for various clients nationwide
- Perform face-to-face and telephone interviews for background investigations
- Conduct legal research of federal and state statutes utilizing extensive government judicial databases, and public records
- Interaction with municipal, county, circuit, and district court systems to obtain, and verify criminal records
- Analyze criminal records and construct summary of reports
- Provide written and oral updates, reports, and presentations on investigation case progress
0-5 years of experience
Conduct Subject and Source interviews in accordance with Office of Personnel Management guidelines, gathering information concerning Subject’s residence, employment, social contact, law enforcement involvement, drug/alcohol use, foreign travel/contact and financial matters.
- Thoroughly brief SF-85P and SF-86 case papers for accuracy, missing and required information.
- Prepare concise, accurate reports for transmission to OPM.
- Communicate effectively and efficiently with OPM and other investigators regarding discrepant information and source leads developed during Subject interview.
- Maintain positive possession and control of all Subject and Source PII in accordance with OPM guidelines.
6-10 years of experience
Maintained customer satisfaction by proactively developing relationships with the citizens of San Marcos while handling the high call volume of the assigned districts.
- Ability to maintain the highest level of professionalism in the midst of highly stressful, life threatening situations.
- Developed the art of negotiation to ensure citizen satisfaction during complex situations.
- Analytical thinking and problem solving while certifying that the laws of the State of Texas and the [company name] were upheld.
- Ability to analyze diverse situations quickly and objectively to determine the proper course of action while ensuring that my resolutions were in accordance with city and state laws.
- Clear written and oral communication to document an accurate accounting of events that would be upheld under scrutiny during the legal process.
- Completed all paperwork in a timely fashion so as not to cause delay in the criminal justice process.
Background Investigator Duties and Responsibilities
Based on job postings that we analyzed, most background investigators share several essential responsibilities:
Investigate Potential Hires
The central role of a background investigator is researching a potential employee’s background to verify application information. This typically includes information such as previous employers and education but can also include more detailed information related to criminal activities, conflicts of interest, or credit factors. The specific nature of the investigation depends on the industry in which the business or organization operates.
Gather Background Information
The primary focus of a background investigator is gathering and analyzing information related to an individual or business’s past activities. Background investigators use a variety of means to gather information, including contacting the applicant’s previous employers and coworkers, accessing publicly-available data through law enforcement and credit databases, and obtaining information through social media and other websites.
Conduct Interviews
Many background investigators also conduct interviews with parties related to the individual or business they are investigating. These interviews are typically used to confirm application information but may also follow up on falsehoods or conflicting information that the investigator uncovers over the course of the investigation. On some occasions, the background investigator may also directly interview the applicant to clear up questions.
Prepare Reports
Throughout the investigation process and after completing their work, background investigators also prepare and present reports to managers and other decision-makers. These reports generally cover the findings of the investigation and highlight any potential issues that the investigator uncovers. If the background investigator successfully confirms all of the information provided by the applicant, the report will provide verification information and sources.
Oversee Due Diligence Investigations
While background investigators typically focus on applicant background checks, many also play a central role in corporate due diligence activities leading up to sales, acquisitions, and mergers. In this aspect of the role, the background investigator identifies potential conflicts of interest, verifies tax filing information, and investigates the finances of involved parties and personnel to ensure that their employee has complete information before making a decision.
Background Investigator Skills and Qualifications
Background investigators locate information, usually related to job applicants, using a variety of investigation methods. Most workers in this role have at least a bachelor’s degree and the following skills:
- Investigative skills – background investigators should be familiar with a wide range of investigative techniques, ranging from thorough searches and information verification to conducting interviews to confirm information
- Information gathering – this role also requires excellent data gathering skills, and background investigators should be able to collect and compile information from a large number of sources
- Analytical skills – background investigators need to be highly analytical and able to synthesize information to draw conclusions. They also need to be able to follow a trail of information and verify its accuracy
- Industry knowledge – in this role, background investigators should have thorough industry knowledge. For example, a background investigation for a public servant has different needs that for a financial professional
- Communication skills – effective communication is central to this role, since background investigators need to speak with a variety of individuals and prepare reports on their findings
Background Investigator Education and Training
Although this role does not require any formal education, most background investigators have bachelor’s degrees in related fields such as criminal justice or police science. Additionally, most background investigators have some experience with investigation, sometimes through previous careers in law enforcement. In many states, background investigators are also required to be licensed. There are few opportunities for on-the-job training in this role.
Background Investigator Salary and Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) categorizes background investigators in the larger private detectives and investigators category. According to the BLS, workers in these roles earned a median annual salary of $50,700 as of May 2017. The highest-paid 10 percent of workers in these roles earned more than $86,730 per year, while the lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $28,780 per year. The BLS expects employment in this field to grow at a faster-than-average pace of 11 percent between 2016 and 2026.
Helpful Resources
If you’re interested in starting a career as a background investigator, we found several useful resources on the web:
Association of Certified Background Investigators (ACBI) – the ACBI is a professional organization for background investigators, offering publications, training materials, and networking events.
Business Background Investigations: Tools and Techniques for Solution Driven Due Diligence by Cynthia Hetherington – this book explores basic and advanced techniques for conducting background investigations for businesses in any industry.
The Background Investigator – read this blog to learn the latest industry news and developments for background investigators, along with information on emerging technologies that background investigators can use in their work.
Pre-Employment Background Investigations for Public Safety Professionals by Frank A. Colaprete – while this book focuses on background investigations for public safety employees, it features techniques and advice that any background investigator will find helpful.
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Last edited by: Gabriela Barcenas, CPRW, Content Writer II -
Gabriela Barcenas
CPRW, Content Writer IIGabriela is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and career adviser. With 10 years of digital media experience and five years of resume writing expertise, her publication history includes fashion, education, travel, social justice, equitable design and career advice.
