Background Investigator: Job Description
Background investigators conduct research and scrutinize information about specific individuals at the request of a client or employer. In the course of their investigations, they may interview a subject's family, friends and acquaintances and use research databases. Key skills for background investigators include an attention to detail, the ability to work independently and persistence. They can be employed by corporate human resource departments or serve as private investigators. Some background investigators conduct background checks at the federal level, often for government workers. Others work at the state or local level, often working with police departments and other law enforcement agencies. They might also work independently or set up a private practice.
Background Investigator: Career Requirements
Let's explore some of the education, experience and licensing requirements that can help you learn how to become a background investigator.
Step 1: Consider Background Investigation Training Courses
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the minimum educational requirement for a private detective or investigator is a high school diploma. Some employers prefer candidates with an associate's or a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or police science. These degrees are offered by colleges and universities across the United States. A bachelor's degree generally takes four years to complete, while associate's degrees usually take two years. A criminal justice or police science program may include courses in investigative techniques and research methods. Undergraduate criminal justice programs also include courses in criminology, criminal behavior, white collar crime and data analysis.
Step 2: Obtain Background Investigator Training
Background investigators can learn the techniques and research methods necessary to perform background checks under the direction of experienced professionals. On-the-job training, which can last for several years, may include conducting computer searches for public records and interviewing a subject's friends and relations. Prior experience in the armed forces, intelligence or law enforcement may help some aspiring investigators qualify for positions as background investigators.
Step 3: Obtain a State Investigator's License
Many states require private detectives and investigators to obtain a license. While individual state requirements can change and vary, they may include background checks conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and state licensing departments. States may also administer examinations to ensure private detectives and investigators understand local laws and regulations regarding issues such as privacy. To obtain the most up-to-date information, aspiring background investigators should check with Professional Investigator Magazine, which can provide them with links to their state licensing boards.
Step 4: Obtain Professional Certified Investigator Credential
ASIS International, a security organization, offers the Professional Certified Investigator credential to individuals who demonstrate knowledge of investigative techniques and procedures, case management and presentation. Requirements include a high school diploma or its equivalent, five years of experience and a passing score on a multiple-choice exam.
Background Investigator: Job Outlook & Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), private detectives and investigators in general can expect a 8%, or faster than average, growth in jobs from 2019 to 2029. Those willing to start out in entry level background investigator jobs in detective agencies, or who have computer and interviewing skills may have the most opportunities. As reported by the BLS, private detectives and investigators earned a median annual salary of $50,510 in May 2019. In the same year, the highest 10% of these professionals earned over $89,760.
If you're still interested in becoming a background investigator, you'll need at least a high school diploma, several years of on-the-job training and most likely a state license. To advance in the field, background investigators can also take continuing education courses in investigative techniques. Lessons in computer search techniques can also benefit individuals conducting background investigations.
