Background Investigator (FT Employee) - Petaluma, CA

Peraton•Petaluma, CA

About The Position

Peraton is hiring a full-time Background Investigator near Petaluma, California. Applicants must live within 30 miles of Petaluma city center. The Investigator conducts federal background investigations to assess the employment suitability of people who need access to sensitive or classified U.S. Government information. The role involves frequent local travel and occasional temporary duty assignments that may require being away from home for 14–30 days. A home office is required. New Investigators must complete six to seven weeks of full-time training, delivered virtually and in person, to become certified in Federal Investigative Standards for government background investigations. Investigators work independently while collaborating with other Investigators and a Field Manager. They use a government-issued computer system to document findings in clear, concise reports.

Requirements

Four years of general work experience or a bachelor’s degree; candidates with experience conducting federal background investigations are preferred.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret-eligible clearance.
U.S. citizenship.
Reside within the stated mileage requirement of Petaluma city center (within 30 miles).
Valid driver’s license, full-time use of reliable transportation, and sufficient motor vehicle insurance; driving is an essential function and motor vehicle records may be checked.
Ability to travel daily locally and outside the primary work area as needed; temporary duty assignments involving 14–30 days away from home may be required.
Home office required.
Accurate and efficient typing; 40+ words per minute is recommended, with the ability to use multiple computer programs concurrently.
Ability to speak for extended periods, hear sufficiently for in-person and telephone communication, and accurately record, read, and transcribe words and numbers.
Strong grammar and writing skills to produce high-quality reports with minimal or no errors.
Ability to interact professionally, write for extended periods, meet attendance and punctuality expectations, and maintain attention to detail during fieldwork.
Maintain confidentiality, ethics, and integrity; professional attire is required.
Ability to lift and move up to 10 pounds, climb stairs, walk extensively, stand for long periods, and drive in adverse weather or at night.

Nice To Haves

Experience conducting federal background investigations.
Active federal background investigation with a T5 adjudication.
Ability to interact professionally and effectively with a variety of individuals and personalities.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, changing environment under remote supervision.
Excellent organizational, scheduling, and prioritization skills.
Proficient writing and communication skills.

Responsibilities

Complete six to seven weeks of full-time virtual and in-person Investigator training to become certified in Federal Investigative Standards.
Travel daily to conduct in-person background investigations, locally and outside the primary work area as needed.
Schedule and conduct face-to-face interviews with investigation subjects and their neighbors, employers, friends, and family.
Search records at police agencies, courthouses, educational and financial institutions, and medical or mental health facilities.
Type and report collected information accurately and clearly using a government-issued computer system.
Work independently while coordinating with a team of Investigators and a Field Manager.
Meet attendance, punctuality, confidentiality, and professional conduct expectations while conducting fieldwork.